Lift trucks are available in a broad selection of sizes and shapes, and each type of forklift has a different set of tires. Generally, tires are classified as cushion or pneumatic, although subcategories are present within those categories. Cushion tire and pneumatic tire forklifts have different types of frames, which makes them non interchangeable.
Although most forklift tires are tough and long lasting, they have to be replaced periodically. Welch Equipment sells tires for all sorts of forklifts at highly affordable prices.
Cushion Tires
At times known as Press On Tires, this sort of tire is generally for indoor use, and sometimes outside on smooth surfaces. Cushion tires are lesser in diameter compared to other types of lift truck tires, and thus possess a smaller turning radius. This means they are best for narrower circumstances like warehouse aisles. Putting a press on tire onto a lift truck wheel needs a hydraulic press.
Among the press on tire categorization, there exist a couple of typical types:
- Rubber Cushion Tires: Rubber cushion tires can be used indoors or on flat surfaces outdoors like concrete or asphalt. They are made from solid rubber, molded to fit around a steel band. This sort of tire is available smooth or with a tread. Usually the forward tires will be treaded while the back tires responsible for steering will be smooth.
- Polyurethane Cushion Tires: Solid poly tires work with larger loads than rubber tires, and are optimal for use in narrow aisles, order pickers and other warehouse duties. These lightweight tires are more resistant to tearing, splitting, and chunking when compared to rubber, and their life can be up to twice as long as rubber with proper maintenance.
Pneumatic Tires
Solid pneumatic and pneumatic tires often are used for outside applications, and are better suited to uneven or rough surface materials as opposed to press on tires. They have superb traction and taller ground clearance meaning they are optimal for rougher surfaces.
- Regular Pneumatic Tires: This variety of pneumatic is filled with air, and is optimally used on rougher surfaces where shock absorption is a concern, both for the integrity of the forklift and the comfort of the operator. The potential issue with regular pneumatic tires is that they are more easily punctured, so sometimes they are filled with foam instead of air in order to prevent flats.
- Solid Pneumatic Tires: Solid pneumatic tires work best for smooth surface indoor / outdoor heavy duty scenarios. Made from solid rubber and basically puncture proof, they are a good choice for terrain with sharp objects, such as recycling yards or construction sites.
Non Marking Tires
Pneumatic, solid pneumatic, and solid tires have non-marking options available. They are made with hydrated silicas and other additives to avoid leaving black marks on floors.
These types of tires are frequently found in retail facilities or other areas where the aesthetic of floors are of concern. They may also be used inside certain industrial or food processing plants where dust reduction and cleanliness are important.
There are a few detractors to using non-marking tires. First and foremost, they often don’t have the durability of traditional tire varieties and will need to be replaced more often. Another complication is that they experience static electricity buildup, and any lift truck with them must be set up with anti-static equipment.
Forklift Tires Near Me
With proper maintenance, your lift truck tires can decrease energy usage, dramatically improve operator comfort, and boost your overall efficiency. To chat with a lift truck tire advisor, give Welch Equipment a call today!
