In choosing the best Forklift Tire and Compound, the following things must be taken into account: type of fuel used; typical weight of load; length of your standard run; types of problems 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
There are specific terms that describe different attributes of tires. It can help to know what they mean. The term Durometer means the hardness of forklift tires. The range is usually from 83 to 95, the number will increase that depends on the hardness of the tire. Most of the tires made today fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
The operator could have a more comfortable ride if the tires are softer. They are recommended for operations that require regular maneuvering because they provide better traction. They are better able to tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications that need 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 which 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 provide less resistance.
Universal Compound tires combine advantages and are suggested as all-around tires for general use.