In selecting the correct Forklift Tire and Compound, the following factors must be taken into consideration: kind of fuel utilized; weight of your standard load; typical length of your run; types 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 top speed and the average speed of your forklift
There are certain terms which describe various characteristics of tires. It is helpful to know what 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. Nearly all of the tires made these days fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires give the operator a more comfortable ride. They are preferable for applications which require regular maneuvering as they offer better traction. They are better able to tolerate driving over floor debris. For uses requiring long runs and maximum speed, soft tires are not suggested. They are constructed of softer compounds which tend to heat up and wear faster compared to hard tires.
Harder tires are suitable for applications requiring multiple shifts, long runs and high speeds. 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 offer less resistance.
For general applications, it is better to use Universal Compound tires. These are all-around tires that combine various advantages.