To be able to help you select the right Forklift Tire and Compound, we will ask you to consider the following factors: kind of fuel used; weight of your typical load; typical length of your run; types of problems you are having; type 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 average speed and the top speed of your forklift
There are specific terms which describe various attributes of tires. It could help 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 made today fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
The operator could have a more comfortable ride if the tires are softer. They are recommended for applications that need frequent maneuvering since they provide better traction. They are could better tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications that require long runs and maximum speed, soft tires are not recommended. They are made of softer compounds that have the tendency to heat up and wear more quickly than hard tires.
Harder tires are recommended for applications needing high speed, multiple shifts and long runs. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they would last longer and wear better. Hard tires are less forgiving of floor debris and give a less comfortable ride. They have the tendency to be more energy efficient because they provide less resistance.
For general applications, it is suggested to utilize Universal Compound tires. These are all-around tires that combine various advantages.