How to Choose the Right Forklift Tires

October 30, 2020

The forklift tires you select will impact the safety and functionality of your equipment. They will also affect the efficiency of your operation. That’s why it’s important to understand each tire type and what its intended use is.

Choose forklift tires based on where and how you’ll use your equipment. Not sure which tire type is the best fit? Forklift Inventory is here to help your business succeed. We’ll walk you through each of your options, from cushion tire forklifts to pneumatic forklifts and everything in between.

You have lots of options when it comes to forklift tires. Learn more about each one. Then, find equipment that fits your needs with Forklift Inventory.

Pneumatic Forklift Tires

Pneumatic forklift tires are similar to car tires. They have deep treads for traction on uneven terrain. For this reason, many outdoor operations invest in a pneumatic forklift.

Of course, not every pneumatic forklift has the same capabilities. You have different options within this tire group.

Here are the three main types of pneumatic forklift tires:

1. Air-Filled Pneumatic Forklift Tires

Most pneumatic tires are made of rubber and are filled with compressed air. The traction on these pneumatic forklift tires makes them ideal for indoor operations or light outdoor operations, as long as there aren’t any sharp objects lying around.

Keep in mind that some industrial facilities may pose a hazard to air-filled tires. Sharp industrial byproducts or site debris may cause these tires to pop. In these cases, opt for solid pneumatic tires.

Consider common applications and worksite when deciding between air-filled and solid pneumatic tires.

2. Solid Pneumatic Forklift Tires

Solid pneumatic forklift tires eliminate the risk of popping or deflating. These tires are made out of solid rubber and are very durable. Places littered with sharp debris, like lumberyards and construction sites, can benefit from solid pneumatic tires.

Solid pneumatic forklift tires are more expensive than their cushion counterparts. Some businesses fill air-filled pneumatic tires with foam to minimize the risk of puncture. While this might save you some money, the foam increases pressure on the casing, making it a very unsustainable solution. Increase the safety of your operation by investing in solid pneumatic tires.

Another downside to using foam as a filler is that the entire wheel and tire must be discarded when the tread wears down. Solid pneumatic forklift tires eliminate this issue.

If a pneumatic forklift sounds like a good fit for your operation, browse your options here.

Cushion Tires

If you plan to operate your equipment indoors only, consider cushion tires. These solid rubber forklift tires are molded to steel. This rubber is typically smooth, but traction options are available. If used outdoors, cushion tires should only be used on smooth surfaces.

1. Solid Cushion Tires

There is no air-filled option when it comes to cushion tire forklifts. Solid cushion tires are the standard. These tires are made of solid rubber fitted around a metal band.

Another reason a cushion tire forklift is ideal for indoor use is that the width of the tires allows for a tighter turning radius. These press on forklift tires are durable and safe.

If a cushion tire forklift sounds like a good fit for you, use Forklift Inventory to compare your options. Start here.

2. Polyurethane Tires

Polyurethane tires are another type of press on forklift tire. They look like typical cushion tires but are made of polyurethane rather than rubber. They are lightweight and more durable than their rubber counterparts.

Polyurethane tires generally last about twice the lifespan of rubber press on forklift tires. However, they are more expensive upfront.

Use these forklift tires for indoor operations like warehousing.

Finding the Right Equipment

Not every tire type is a fit for every forklift type. Certain forklift tires may not be a fit for your machine. Consult your forklift manual for specific information on tires.

If you’re ready to find a pneumatic or cushion tire forklift for your operation, use Forklift Inventory to compare your options. Start by answering a few questions about what you’re looking for. We’ll send you pricing and information on cushion or pneumatic forklifts that meet your needs.

Find the equipment your business needs at a price you can afford. Browse the largest inventory of forklifts online instantly.

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