How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is normally used to power forklifts or industrial lift trucks. 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 utilize propane should be trained to handle substances which are extremely flammable.
1 Before refueling, you should wear personal protective equipment. Thick leather gloves should be worn to prevent the hands from touching liquid propane. The liquid is extremely cold and can cause serious burns. Other protective equipment includes goggles and a full face shield. A fire extinguisher must always be nearby.
2 The forklift must be shut down first. Make certain there are no open flames in the area and no lit cigarettes. Remove the protective cap on the fill valve and attach the fill line securely to the fill valve. When the fill line is in position, open the bleed valve with caution. 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 during refueling; when it is full, the bleeder valve would emit a spray of white gas. Completely turn off the fill valve first before closing the bleeder valve. Slowly take the fill line out of the tank. The escape of a small amount of gas during this time is normal. Screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Inspect all the valves to make sure that they are completely closed. Your truck is now refueled and ready to drive.