To help you choose the correct Forklift Tire and Compound, we would ask you to think about the following factors: type of fuel used; typical weight of load; length of your standard run; kinds of problems 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 top speed and the normal speed of your forklift
To describe different characteristics of tires, there are some particular 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 would increase which depends on the hardness of the tire. Nearly all 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 which require frequent maneuvering as they provide better traction. They are better able to tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications which require maximum speed and long runs, soft tires are not suggested. They are constructed of softer compounds that have the tendency to heat up and wear faster than hard tires.
For applications that require 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 wear better and last longer. Hard tires give a less comfortable ride and are less forgiving of floor debris. They have the tendency to be more energy efficient because they provide less resistance.
Universal Compound tires combine advantages and are suggested as all-around tires for general use.