In selecting the correct Forklift Tire and Compound, the following things must be taken into account: type of fuel utilized; weight of your typical load; length of your standard run; kinds of problems you are having; kind 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 average speed and the top speed of your forklift
To be able to describe various characteristics of tires, there are some specific terms which are utilized. It could help to know what 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 nowadays 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 require regular maneuvering since they offer better traction. They are better able to tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications requiring maximum speed and long runs, soft tires are not recommended. They are made of softer compounds that tend to heat up and wear faster than hard tires.
For use which need multiple shifts, high speed and long runs, it is best to have harder tires. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they will 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 as they offer less resistance.
Universal Compound tires combine advantages and are recommended as all-around tires for general applications.