Forklift Cylinder 101

Written on: May 17, 2021

If you’re new to using propane forklifts, or considering making the switch, congratulations – we think you’re making the right choice! Propane offers a range of advantages that you and your crew will benefit from long into the future.

But how much do you know about propane for forklifts? Here are eight useful propane forklift facts to give you a head start (or a refresher!).

• Forklifts primarily use 33-pound cylinders as their fuel source; 22-pound and 42-pound sizes also are common.
• Typically, a 33-pound. forklift cylinder will run for about 8 hours of continual service.
• Forklift cylinders aren’t required to have an OPD valve in order to be refueled. A scale is similarly not required for fueling, so they can be filled on site from a delivery truck.
• Forklift cylinders are made from durable, corrosion-resistant, non-sparking steel or aluminum.
• A steel 33-pound tank weighs about 69 pounds when filled; an aluminum 33-pound tank weighs about 56 pounds full.
• The wide foot ring of a propane forklift cylinder provides stability when it is in its upright position. The top cover protects the fittings and provides a hole for proper mounting.
• If your propane cylinder isn’t installed properly, your forklift won’t achieve full power and could even shut down entirely. To ensure proper installation, put the cylinder on the locating pin. The locating pin –
  • positions the cylinder properly for the hose and fitting alignment to connect without twisting or stretching the hose;
  • ensures that the pressure relief is in an upright position in the vapor space of the tank so the valve won’t spray fuel;
  • aligns the main valve pick-up tube inside the tank to get almost all the fuel out of it; and
  • allows the fuel gauge to be read easily.

  Once the cylinder is secure, connect the fuel line and check for leaks; replace it if necessary.

• When forklift cylinders are not in use they should be stored in a proper propane storage rack or cage.

From Cherokee County to Fayette County, and Douglas County to Gwinnett County, Georgia Gas Distributors is here to meet your forklift-fueling needs! Contact us today to get a quote on setting up a propane forklift cylinder exchange in Metro Atlanta.