In choosing the right Forklift Tire and Compound, the following things should be taken into account: type of fuel used; standard weight of load; length of your typical run; types of issues you are having; kind of surfaces the forklift runs on; whether your forklift operates over dock plates; percentage of time and number of shifts the forklift is loaded; and the top speed and the normal speed of your forklift
There are specific terms which describe different attributes of tires. It is helpful to know what exactly they mean. The term Durometer refers to the hardness of forklift tires. The range is typically from 83 to 95, the number increasing with the hardness of the tire. The majority of the tires made these days fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires offer the operator a more comfortable ride. They are preferable for operations which need frequent maneuvering as they offer better traction. They are could better tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications requiring maximum speed and long runs, soft tires are not recommended. They are constructed of softer compounds which tend to heat up and wear more quickly compared to hard tires.
Harder tires are recommended for applications needing multiple shifts, long runs and high speeds. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they will wear better and last longer. Hard tires are less forgiving of floor debris and give a less comfortable ride. They have the tendency to be more energy efficient as they offer less resistance.
For general applications, it is recommended to utilize Universal Compound tires. These are all-around tires which combine various advantages.