How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is normally used to operate industrial lift trucks or forklifts. There is the alternative to have refueling capabilities on site or to have cylinders brought to your facility. Operators who are working with forklifts that use propane must be trained to handle substances which are highly combustible.
1 Before refueling, you should wear personal protective equipment. Thick leather gloves must be worn to be able to prevent liquid propane from coming into contact with the hands. The liquid is very cold and could lead to severe burns. Other protective equipment includes a full face shield and goggles. A fire extinguisher should be close at hand.
2 The forklift should be shut down first. Make sure there are no lit cigarettes and no open flames within 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, open the bleed valve carefully. A hissing noise is normal when the valve is open, but make certain it is air that is 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. After that open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Check the tank while refueling; as soon as it is full, the bleeder valve would release a spray of white gas. Turn off the fill valve completely first prior to closing the bleeder valve. Slowly take the fill line out of the tank. The escape of a small amount of gas at this time is normal. Screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Inspect all valves in order to make certain that they are completely closed. Now, your truck is refueled and ready to be utilized.