How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is normally utilized to power forklifts or industrial lift trucks. There is the option to have refueling capabilities on location or to have cylinders delivered to your facility. Operators who are working with propane-powered forklifts should be properly trained to handle highly flammable substances.
1 Personal protective equipment must be put on prior to refueling. Thick leather gloves must be worn to avoid the hands from touching liquid propane. The liquid is very cold and could cause serious burns. Other protective equipment consists of a full face shield and goggles. A fire extinguisher must always be close at hand.
2 The forklift should be shut down first. Make certain there are no lit cigarettes and no open flames in the area. Take off the protective cap on the fill valve and securely attach the fill line to the fill valve. When the fill line is in position, open the bleed valve carefully. A hissing noise is normal when the valve is open, but make sure it is air that is escaping - and not propane.
3 carefully open the fill valve on the fill line until you are sure there are no leaks around the connection. Afterward open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Monitor the tank while refueling; when it is full, the bleeder valve will emit a spray of white gas. Turn off the fill valve completely first prior to closing the bleeder valve. Take the fill line out of the tank carefully. A small amount of gas that is escaping at this time is normal. Screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Check all the valves in order to make certain that they are completely closed. Your truck is now refueled and ready to be used.