In selecting the right Forklift Tire and Compound, the following factors should be taken into account: kind of fuel used; weight of your standard load; length of your typical run; types 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 normal speed and the top speed of your forklift
To be able to describe different attributes of tires, there are some particular terms which are utilized. It can help to know what they mean. The term Durometer means the hardness of forklift tires. The range is typically from 83 to 95, the number increasing with the hardness of the tire. Nearly all of the tires made today fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
The operator can have a more comfortable ride if the tires are softer. They are recommended for applications that require frequent maneuvering as they offer better traction. They are better able to tolerate driving over floor debris. For uses that need maximum speed and long runs, soft tires are not recommended. They are made of softer compounds that have the tendency to heat up and wear more quickly compared to hard tires.
For use that require 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 are less forgiving of floor debris and give a less comfortable ride. They tend to be more energy efficient because they provide less resistance.
For general applications, it is recommended to utilize Universal Compound tires. These are all-around tires which combine various advantages.