How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is usually used to operate industrial lift trucks or forklifts. There is the option to have cylinders brought to your facility, or to have refueling capabilities on location. Operators who are working with propane-powered forklifts must be correctly trained to handle very combustible substances.
1 Prior to refueling, you must wear personal protective equipment. Thick leather gloves should be worn in order to avoid the hands from touching liquid propane. The liquid is very cold and can result in severe burns. Other protective equipment includes goggles and a full face shield. A fire extinguisher should be nearby.
2 Before doing anything else, you should first shut down the forklift. Make certain there are no lit cigarettes and no open flames in 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, open the bleed valve carefully. A hissing noise is normal when the valve is open, but make sure it is air that is escaping - and not propane.
3 carefully open the fill valve on the fill line until you are certain there are no leaks around the connection. Afterward 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. Make sure to screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Check all of the valves to make sure they are closed completely. Your truck is now refueled and ready to drive.