How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is usually used to operate forklifts or industrial lift trucks. There is the choice 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 deal with substances which are extremely flammable.
1 Prior to refueling, you must wear personal protective equipment. Thick leather gloves must be worn to prevent liquid propane from coming into contact with the hands. The liquid is very cold and can result in severe burns. Other protective equipment consists of a full face shield and goggles. A fire extinguisher must be nearby.
2 Prior to doing something else, you must first shut down the forklift. Make sure there are no lit cigarettes and no open flames in the area. Remove the protective cap on the fill valve and attach the fill line securely to the fill valve. When the fill line is in place, carefully open the bleed valve. A hissing sound is normal when opening the valve, but make certain it is air that is escaping - not propane.
3 Slowly open the fill valve on the fill line until you are certain there are no leaks around the connection. After that open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Monitor the tank while refueling; as soon as it is full, the bleeder valve will release a spray of white gas. Turn off the fill valve completely first before closing the bleeder valve. Take the fill line out of the tank carefully. The escape of a small amount of gas during this time is normal. Make certain to screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Inspect all the valves in order to make certain that they are closed completely. Your truck is now refueled and ready to be utilized.