In order to help you choose the correct Forklift Tire and Compound, we will ask you to think about the following factors: kind of fuel used; average weight of load; length of your standard run; types of issues you are having; type of surfaces the forklift runs on; whether or not your forklift operates over dock plates; percentage of time and number of shifts the forklift is loaded; and the normal speed and the top speed of your forklift
To be able to describe various attributes of tires, there are some specific terms which are used. It is helpful to know what they mean. The term Durometer refers to the hardness of forklift tires. The range is usually from 83 to 95, the number will increase which depends on the hardness of the tire. The majority of the tires made nowadays fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires give the driver a more comfortable ride. They are preferable for applications that require frequent maneuvering since they provide better traction. They are better able to tolerate driving over floor debris. For uses requiring long runs and maximum speed, soft tires are not recommended. They are made of softer compounds that tend to heat up and wear more quickly compared to hard tires.
For use which need long runs, multiple shifts and high speed, it is best to have harder tires. 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 since they offer less resistance.
Universal Compound tires combine advantages and are recommended as all-around tires for general use.