How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Industrial lift trucks, or forklifts, are normally designed to run using liquid propane. There is the option to have cylinders brought to your facility, or to have refueling capabilities on location. Operators who are working with forklifts that utilize propane must be trained to handle very flammable substances.
1 Personal protective equipment must be put on before refueling. Thick leather gloves must be worn to avoid the hands from touching liquid propane. The liquid is extremely cold and can lead to serious burns. Other protective equipment includes goggles and a full face shield. A fire extinguisher must be nearby.
2 The forklift must be shut down first. Make sure there are no lit cigarettes and no open flames within the area. Remove 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. A hissing noise is normal when opening the valve, but make certain it is air escaping - not propane.
3 Slowly open the fill valve on the fill line until you are certain there are no leaks around the connection. Then open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Monitor the tank while 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 carefully. A small amount of gas which is escaping during this time is normal. Screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Check all valves to make certain that they are closed completely. Now, your truck is refueled and ready to drive.