In choosing the right Forklift Tire and Compound, the following things must be taken into account: type of fuel used; average weight of load; typical length of your run; types of problems 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 normal speed and the top speed of your forklift
To describe different attributes of tires, there are some specific terms that are used. 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 will increase that depends on the hardness of the tire. Most of the tires manufactured these days fall within a couple of standard industry classifications.
The operator can have a more comfortable ride if the tires are softer. They are preferable for operations which need regular maneuvering as they provide better traction. They are can better tolerate driving over floor debris. For applications requiring maximum speed and long runs, soft tires are not suggested. They are constructed of softer compounds which have the tendency to heat up and wear faster compared to hard tires.
Harder tires are suitable for use needing high speed, multiple shifts and long runs. 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 have the tendency to be more energy efficient because they offer less resistance.
Universal Compound tires combine advantages and are suggested as all-around tires for general applications.