In selecting the correct Forklift Tire and Compound, the following factors should be taken into consideration: kind of fuel used; weight of your typical load; length of your typical run; types of issues 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 normal speed and the top speed of your forklift
There are particular terms which describe different characteristics of tires. It is helpful to know what exactly they mean. The term Durometer means 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. Most of the tires manufactured these days fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires offer the driver a more comfortable ride. They are preferable for applications which need frequent 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 have the tendency to heat up and wear more quickly compared to hard tires.
For applications that require high speed, long runs and multiple shifts, it is best to have harder tires. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they would 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 suggested as all-around tires for general use.