Forklifts come in many different sizes and shapes, and each type of forklift has a unique set of tires. Usually, tires are classified as cushion or pneumatic, although there are some distinctions within those classifications. Cushion tire and pneumatic tire forklifts have differing frames, so they lack interchangeability.
Despite the fact that most tires are tough and durable, they have to be changed out every now and then. Welch Equipment has tires for a broad selection of forklifts at extremely favorable prices.
Cushion Tires
Sometimes known as Press On Tires, this sort of tire is generally for indoor use, and sometimes outdoors on flat surface materials. Press on tires are of a smaller diameter as opposed to other varieties of forklift tires, and as such possess a shorter turning radius; making them ideal for narrower areas like warehouse aisles. Fixating a press on tire onto a forklift wheel requires the use of a hydraulic press.
Among the cushion tire category, a couple of general types are present:
- Rubber Cushion Tires: Rubber cushion tires are used indoors or on smooth surfaces outside such as asphalt or concrete. They are constructed with solid rubber, formed around a solid steel band. This kind of tire can come smooth or with treading. Often the forward wheels of a forklift will have treaded tires while the back tires responsible for steering lack treading.
- Polyurethane Cushion Tires: Solid polyurethane tires can support larger loads compared to rubber tires, and they are perfect for narrow aisle applications, order pickers and other warehouse jobs. These tires are lightweight, and are more resistant to tearing, chunking, and splitting as opposed to rubber, and they can last up to twice as long as rubber with proper care.
Pneumatic Tires
Solid pneumatic and pneumatic tires often are used for outdoor applications, and are better equipped for uneven or rough surface materials compared to press on tires. They have excellent traction and taller ground clearance making them ideal for rougher terrain.
- Regular Pneumatic Tires: This type of pneumatic is filled with air, and is optimally used on very rough surfaces where shock absorption is important, both for the integrity of the forklift and the operator’s comfort. The potential issue with regular pneumatic tires is that they can be punctured, and they are sometimes filled with foam to ward off flats.
- Solid Pneumatic Tires: Solid pneumatic tires work best for flat surface inside and outside heavy duty applications. Constructed with solid rubber and almost entirely puncture resistant, they work best for places with sharp objects, such as construction sites or recycling yards.
Non Marking Tires
Non-marking options are available for solid, solid pneumatic, and pneumatic tires. These are constructed with hydrated silicas and other additives to avoid leaving black marks on floors.
These sorts of tires are commonly used in retail facilities or other areas where floor aesthetics matter. They are likewise used inside certain industrial or food processing plants where dust reduction and cleanliness are concerns.
There are some drawbacks to using non-marking tires. First and foremost, sometimes they aren’t as durable as traditional tire varieties and can need more frequent replacement. Another problem is that they are more prone to static electricity buildup, and any lift that has them needs to be set up with anti-static equipment.
Forklift Tires Near Me
When maintained properly, your forklift tires can decrease energy consumption, dramatically improve operator comfort, and elevate your collective efficiency. To speak with a lift truck tire advisor, call Welch Equipment today!
