Forklifts, when used in indoor operations, are typically operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic type of tires is truly the best alternative outdoors. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy loads and could be used on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces.
For the most part, propane powered machinery is believed to be safe. Propane has the reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the engine or machine is not tuned up or maintained correctly, then the propane powered engine can emit carbon monoxide or CO, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional working form could result in a similar situation. These emitted gases can be very noxious within confined or improperly ventilated spaces.
Compared to diesel and gasoline powered forklifts, propane models emit less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. As it is a gas, propane mixes well with air, as opposed to gasoline or diesel and burns at a low temperature. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are less compared to those produced by a gas or diesel engine. Therefore, a propane forklift's engine usually lasts much longer than a diesel or gasoline powered lift truck unit.
IC engines work by sucking in air from the surrounding area. This air reacts with the fuel causing it to burn. A 60 horse-power forklift needs to breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute in order to work. Before operation, it is better to switch on a propane forklift outside and let it warm up for a bit. This is due to the carbon monoxide emissions as they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or machine and become less potent after the machine has had a chance to warm up.
It is vital to note that battery powered or electric forklifts can not be used outside in the rain for fear of damaging the battery if they get wet. A dangerous situation could occur since an electric forklift can short out due to rainwater getting in.
However, propane forklifts work really well in the rain. The propane is stored in the on-board well sealed tanks. This means there is no possibility of a rainstorm interrupting the work of an operator. Propane lift trucks are extremely versatile and are capable of being used both indoors and outdoors. Diesel and gasoline powered forklifts could accidentally suffocate you with dangerous gases if they are utilized inside. A properly tuned up and well maintained forklift is a good way to effectively and safely handle your loads.