In selecting the right Forklift Tire and Compound, the following factors should be taken into consideration: type of fuel utilized; weight of your standard load; average length of your run; types of issues you are having; type of surfaces the forklift runs on; whether your forklift operates over dock plates; number of shifts and percentage of time the forklift is loaded; and the top speed and the normal speed of your forklift
There are certain terms which describe different characteristics 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. Most of the tires manufactured these days fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires give the driver a more comfortable ride. They are preferable for applications that require regular maneuvering because they provide better traction. They are could better tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications which require long runs and maximum speed, soft tires are not recommended. They are constructed of softer compounds that have the tendency to heat up and wear more quickly compared to hard tires.
Harder tires are suitable for applications requiring long runs, high speeds and multiple shifts. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they will wear better and last longer. Hard tires give a less comfortable ride and are less forgiving of floor debris. They tend to be more energy efficient because they offer less resistance.
Universal Compound tires combine advantages and are recommended as all-around tires for general use.