In selecting the best Forklift Tire and Compound, the following factors must be taken into account: type of fuel used; typical weight of load; length of your typical run; kinds of issues 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 average speed and the top speed of your forklift
To be able to describe different characteristics of tires, there are some specific terms which are used. It is helpful to know what precisely they mean. The term Durometer refers to the hardness of forklift tires. The range is typically from 83 to 95, the number will increase that depends on the hardness of the tire. Nearly all of the tires manufactured today fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires offer the driver a more comfortable ride. They are preferable for applications that need regular maneuvering as they offer better traction. They are better able to tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications requiring long runs and maximum speed, soft tires are not suggested. They are made of softer compounds which tend to heat up and wear more quickly compared to hard tires.
For applications 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 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 suggested as all-around tires for general use.