In selecting the correct Forklift Tire and Compound, the following factors should be taken into account: kind of fuel utilized; weight of your typical 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; number of shifts and percentage of time the forklift is loaded; and the average speed and the top speed of your forklift
There are particular terms that describe different attributes of tires. It is helpful 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. Nearly all of the tires made nowadays fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires give the driver a more comfortable ride. They are recommended for operations which require frequent maneuvering as 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 constructed of softer compounds which tend to heat up and wear more quickly compared to hard tires.
Harder tires are recommended for use requiring multiple shifts, long runs and high speeds. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they will last longer and wear better. Hard tires give a less comfortable ride and are less forgiving of floor debris. They tend to be more energy efficient because they offer less resistance.
Universal Compound tires combine advantages and are recommended as all-around tires for general applications.