How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is usually used to operate forklifts or industrial lift trucks. There is the choice to have cylinders brought to your facility, or to have refueling capabilities on site. Operators who are working with propane-powered forklifts should be trained to deal with substances which are extremely combustible.
1 Prior to refueling, you must 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 extremely cold and can lead to severe burns. Other protective equipment consists of a full face shield and goggles. A fire extinguisher must be nearby.
2 The forklift must be shut down first. Make sure there are no open flames within the area and no lit cigarettes. 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, carefully open the bleed valve. A hissing sound is normal when opening the valve, 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 certain there are no leaks around the connection. Then 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 emit a spray of white gas. Completely turn off the fill valve first before closing the bleeder valve. Take the fill line out of the tank slowly. 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 to make sure that they are completely closed. Now, your truck is refueled and ready to be utilized.