How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is usually utilized to operate industrial lift trucks or forklifts. There is the alternative to have refueling capabilities on location or to have cylinders brought to your facility. Operators who are working with forklifts which use propane must be properly trained to deal with substances which are highly flammable.
1 Personal protective equipment should 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 very cold and can result in serious burns. Other protective equipment consists of goggles and a full face shield. A fire extinguisher should always be nearby.
2 The forklift must be shut down first. Make sure there are no open flames within the area and no lit cigarettes. Take off 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. A hissing sound is normal when opening the valve, but make sure it is air escaping - and not propane.
3 Open the fill valve on the fill line carefully. Look around the connections and make certain that there are no leaks. Afterward open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Check the tank during refueling; when it is full, the bleeder valve will release 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. The escape of a small amount of gas during this time is normal. Screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Check all the valves to make certain that they are closed completely. Your truck is now refueled and ready to drive.