How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is normally utilized to power industrial lift trucks or forklifts. There is the alternative to have cylinders delivered 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 that are highly combustible.
1 Prior to refueling, you must wear personal protective equipment. Thick leather gloves must be worn to prevent liquid propane from coming into contact with the hands. The liquid is extremely cold and could lead to serious burns. Other protective equipment consists of a full face shield and goggles. A fire extinguisher should be nearby.
2 Before doing something else, you must first shut down the forklift. Make certain there are no lit cigarettes and no open flames within the area. 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. A hissing sound is normal when the valve is open, but make certain it is air that is 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 during refueling; when it is full, the bleeder valve would 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 slowly. A small amount of gas that is escaping at this time is normal. Make sure to screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Check all valves to make certain that they are completely closed. Now, your truck is refueled and ready to be used.