How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is usually used to operate industrial lift trucks or forklifts. 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 must be trained to deal with substances which are extremely flammable.
1 Prior to refueling, you should wear personal protective equipment. Thick leather gloves should be worn in order to avoid liquid propane from coming into contact with the hands. The liquid is very cold and can cause severe burns. Other protective equipment consists of a full face shield and goggles. A fire extinguisher must be close at hand.
2 The forklift must be shut down first. Make certain there are no open flames in the area and no lit cigarettes. 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. It is normal to hear a hissing sound when opening the valve, but make sure it is air escaping - not propane.
3 Slowly open the fill valve on the fill line until you are sure there are no leaks around the connection. Then open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Check the tank while refueling; when 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 slowly. The escape of a small amount of gas during this time is normal. Screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Check all valves to make certain that they are totally closed. Your truck is now refueled and ready to be utilized.