How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Forklifts, or industrial lift trucks, are normally meant to run using liquid propane. There is the alternative to have cylinders brought to your facility, or to have refueling capabilities on location. Operators who are working with propane-powered forklifts must be properly trained to handle substances that are extremely flammable.
1 Prior to refueling, you must wear personal protective equipment. Thick leather gloves should be worn 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 includes goggles and a full face shield. A fire extinguisher must be close at hand.
2 The forklift should be shut down first. Make certain there are no open flames within the area and no lit cigarettes. 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 noise when the valve is open, but make sure it is air which is escaping - not propane.
3 Open the fill valve on the fill line carefully. Check around the connections and make sure that there are no leaks. After that open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Monitor the tank while refueling; when it is full, the bleeder valve will emit 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 carefully. 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 they are completely closed. Now, your truck is refueled and ready to drive.