How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is usually utilized to power industrial lift trucks or forklifts. There is the alternative to have refueling capabilities on site or to have cylinders delivered to your facility. Operators who are working with forklifts which use propane must be properly trained to handle highly combustible substances.
1 Personal protective equipment must be put on before refueling. Thick leather gloves must be worn to avoid liquid propane from coming into contact with the hands. The liquid is extremely cold and can cause serious burns. Other protective equipment consists of goggles and a full face shield. A fire extinguisher must always be close at hand.
2 The forklift must be shut down first. Make certain there are no lit cigarettes and no open flames within the area. Take off 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. It is normal to hear a hissing sound when opening the valve, but make certain it is air which is escaping - and not propane.
3 Slowly open the fill valve on the fill line until you are sure there are no leaks around the connection. Afterward open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Monitor the tank while refueling; as soon as it is full, the bleeder valve would release a spray of white gas. Totally turn off the fill valve first prior to closing the bleeder valve. Take the fill line out of the tank carefully. The escape of a small amount of gas at this time is normal. Make certain to screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Check all valves in order to make certain that they are completely closed. Now, your truck is refueled and ready to drive.