In order to help you choose the correct Forklift Tire and Compound, we would ask you to consider the following things: type of fuel utilized; standard weight of load; length of your standard 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
To describe various characteristics of tires, there are some specific terms that are used. It could help to know what they mean. The term Durometer refers to the hardness of forklift tires. The range is normally from 83 to 95, the number increasing with the hardness of the tire. Nearly all of the tires manufactured nowadays fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
Softer tires give the operator a more comfortable ride. They are preferable for applications which need frequent maneuvering because they provide better traction. They are could better tolerate driving over floor debris. For uses requiring maximum speed and long runs, soft tires are not suggested. They are constructed of softer compounds that tend to heat up and wear more quickly compared to hard tires.
Harder tires are suitable for use needing long runs, high speeds and multiple shifts. They are better than soft tires for maximum loads, and they will 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 because they provide less resistance.
For general applications, it is suggested to utilize Universal Compound tires. These are all-around tires which combine various advantages.