How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is normally utilized to operate forklifts or industrial lift trucks. There is the option to have cylinders delivered to your facility, or to have refueling capabilities on site. Operators who are working with forklifts which use propane should be trained to handle substances which are highly flammable.
1 Personal protective equipment must be put on prior to refueling. Thick leather gloves should be worn to avoid the hands from touching liquid propane. The liquid is extremely cold and could result in severe burns. Other protective equipment includes a full face shield and goggles. A fire extinguisher must always be nearby.
2 The forklift should be shut down first. Make certain there are no lit cigarettes and no open flames within the area. Remove 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 with caution. It is normal to hear a hissing sound when opening the valve, but make sure it is air escaping - and not propane.
3 carefully open the fill valve on the fill line until you are certain there are no leaks around the connection. Afterward open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Monitor the tank during 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. A small amount of gas that is escaping at this time is normal. Make certain to screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Check all valves in order to make sure they are completely closed. Your truck is now refueled and ready to drive.