Industrial Propane Cylinder Parts - Forklifts and Buffers
Propane is widely used by many companies and industries across the United States. Propane cylinder service is offered by most propane companies and is growing due to the portability of propane as an energy source and alternative fuel. Primarily used in liquid service, these cylinders can be spotted on the back of forklifts all over the nation. Additionally, propane powered forklifts and similar equipment can be operated indoors because of its clean burning characteristics.
Industrial Propane Cylinders
Propane cylinders used on forklifts or other similar equipment utilizing liquid propane as a fuel source are quite common among many different industries and are used indoors and outdoors. Industrial propane bottles are commonly made of steel or aluminum and found in three sizes: 20# cylinders, 33# cylinders and 40# cylinders. Forklifts are usually powered by the 33# propane bottles with larger lifts sometimes using the 40# cylinders. The 20# propane bottles are usually used on propane floor buffers seen in grocery stores.
Industrial/Forklift Cylinder Parts
Similar to an ASME propane tank, a cylinder designed for industrial service such as on a forklift, has fittings and connections installed independently on the propane cylinder. Although the fittings function the same, they are specialized for use with an industrial propane cylinder used primarily in liquid service. These fittings include: relief valves, bleeder valves, service valves, float gauges, and filler valves. The service valves communicate with the liquid space of the cylinder but can often be converted to be used in vapor service for applications requiring LP Gas vapor.
Understanding the Cylinder Gauge
The gauge on a propane forklift cylinder can sometimes be misleading and confusing for forklift operators. It is important to know that the gauge will only indicate a correct reading when the cylinder is installed horizontally and properly mounted on the lift truck. The gauge is not designed to accurately depict the propane level when the tank is positioned vertically.