How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is normally utilized 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 forklifts which use propane must be properly trained to deal with extremely combustible substances.
1 Personal protective equipment must be put on prior to refueling. Thick leather gloves should be worn to avoid liquid propane from coming into contact with the hands. The liquid is extremely cold and can result in serious burns. Other protective equipment includes a full face shield and goggles. A fire extinguisher should be close at hand.
2 The forklift must be shut down first. Make certain there are no lit cigarettes and no open flames in 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 place, open the bleed valve carefully. It is normal to hear a hissing sound when the valve is open, but make sure it is air escaping - not propane.
3 carefully 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 will emit a spray of white gas. Turn off the fill valve completely first prior to closing the bleeder valve. Carefully take the fill line out of the tank. A small amount of gas which is escaping during this time is normal. Make certain to screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Inspect all valves to make certain they are closed completely. Now, your truck is refueled and ready to drive.