How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is normally utilized to power industrial lift trucks or forklifts. There is the option to have cylinders brought to your facility, or to have refueling capabilities on site. Operators who are working with propane-powered forklifts must be properly trained to handle very flammable substances.
1 Prior to refueling, you should wear personal protective equipment. Thick leather gloves should be worn in order to avoid the hands from touching liquid propane. The liquid is very cold and could cause severe burns. Other protective equipment includes a full face shield and goggles. A fire extinguisher should be nearby.
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 securely attach the fill line to the fill valve. When the fill line is in place, 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 - not propane.
3 Open the fill valve on the fill line carefully. Look around the connections and make sure that there are no leaks. After that 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. Totally turn off the fill valve first before closing the bleeder valve. Take the fill line out of the tank carefully. A small amount of gas that is escaping during this time is normal. Screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Inspect all valves to make sure that they are closed completely. Your truck is now refueled and ready to drive.