In selecting the correct Forklift Tire and Compound, the following things should be taken into consideration: kind of fuel used; weight of your typical load; length of your standard run; kinds of issues you are having; kind 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 describe various attributes of tires, there are some particular terms which are used. It is helpful to know what precisely they mean. The term Durometer means the hardness of forklift tires. The range is usually from 83 to 95, the number increasing with the hardness of the tire. Most of the tires made today fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
The driver can have a more comfortable ride if the tires are softer. They are preferable for applications which require frequent maneuvering since they offer better traction. They are better able to tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications which require long runs and maximum speed, soft tires are not recommended. They are constructed of softer compounds that tend to heat up and wear more quickly compared to hard tires.
For use 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 would 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 as they provide less resistance.
Universal Compound tires combine advantages and are recommended as all-around tires for general use.