There are many different forklift tyres on the market today, all specifically designed for a variety of applications. But when faced with so much choice, it can be difficult to know exactly what type of forklift tyre you need in order to make warehouse operations run as smoothly as possible.
There are a wide range of tread depths, compounds and ply ratings to choose from, so it’s important that you understand exactly what each tyre has to offer depending on the forklift type and the tasks at hand. In order to help, Refurbished Forklifts are on hand to help you differentiate between tyre types, as well as providing a list of things to consider before making your ultimate choice.
What are the different forklift tyre options?
As mentioned previously, there are a number of different forklift tyres available to warehouse equipment owners. It can be quite the task to pick out the most ideal set for both your budget and your needs. It’s also important to think about how frequently the forklift will be used, the terrain on which they’ll be operating and the application they’ll be needed for before making your choice, but hopefully, the following will be able to help here.
Cushion tyres
These forklift tyres press onto the vehicle as opposed to being a standard fit. They’re mostly used on smooth, even surfaces and so should just be dedicated to indoor use in order to ensure their longevity. With an impressive, tight turning radius, these tyres are ideal for instances where space is limited.
Cushion tyres can be fitted to:
- VNA forklifts
- Multi-directional forklifts
- Electric forklifts
- Three-wheeled forklifts
Pneumatic tyres
An extremely reliable, durable option, pneumatic tyres are thick and weather-resistant, making them ideal for forklifts that often have to venture outside. Made from solid rubber with a deep tread, a cushion is added between the tyre and the floor, making for a comfortable, safe ride, even when on rough, loose, wet or icy terrain.
Pneumatic tyres can be fitted to:
Solid/puncture-proof tyres
One of the most common forklift tyres available, solid tyres or ‘puncture-proof’ as they’re also known, are incredibly long-lasting thanks to the fact that they’re incapable of being punctured or running flat. They’re most suited to indoor applications and should only be taken across smooth, sturdy ground when outside.
Solid/puncture-proof tyres can be fitted to:
- LPG forklifts
- Electric forklifts
- VNA forklifts
- Multi-directional forklifts
- Three-wheeled forklifts
Fiberglass tyres
With a high heat-resistance, these tyres are usually fitted to forklifts that are required to carry heavy, substantial loads on a regular basis. This means that they often form part of a diesel, LPG or electric forklift as these are some of the most powerful vehicles on the material handling market.
Fiberglass tyres can be fitted to:
- Diesel forklifts
- LPG forklifts
- Electric forklifts
- Multi-directional forklifts
Static-resistant tyres
As the name would suggest, these forklift tyres have been expertly engineered to prevent static discharge. As such, they’re generally used in warehouses that handle, transport and distribute explosive or highly-combustible materials.
Static-resistant tyres can be fitted to:
- Electric forklifts
- VNA forklifts
- Multi-directional forklifts
Non-marking tyres
Aptly named, non-marking tyres have been specially designed to ensure no marks are left on warehouse floors during operation. These tyres are exceptionally solid and are often used in the food and catering industry. However, they do have a shorter lifespan in comparison to other forklift tyre types due to the lack of carbon black.
Non-marking tyres can be fitted to:
- Electric forklifts
- LPG forklifts
- Multi-directional forklifts
- VNA forklifts
- Three-wheeled forklifts
Foam-fill tyres
Filled with a resin that ensures constant pressure, foam-filled tyres also help to prevent punctures. This makes them a favourable choice when it comes to choosing forklift tyres, especially in the manufacturing and construction industry where nails and other debris could be found on the floor.
Foam-fill tyres can be fitted to:
- Diesel forklifts
- Electric forklifts
- LPG forklifts
- Multi-directional forklifts
- VNA forklifts
- Three-wheeled forklifts
Cold-prepped tyres
These are ideal for surfaces that are wet, icy or exceptionally smooth due to the increased amount of traction they’re able to provide. This will help to improve overall safety throughout your warehouse, no matter what industry you work in.
Cold-prepped tyres can be fitted to:
- Diesel forklifts
- Electric forklifts
- LPG forklifts
- Multi-directional forklifts
- VNA forklifts
- Three-wheeled forklifts
Things to consider when choosing your forklift tyres
Solid and pneumatic tyres are among the most common forklift tyres out there and there are also two different fitting options available to you: press on and standard fit. Tyres that are pressed onto the machine are generally less reliable than those that are a standard fit, especially on rough or uneven terrain.
Standard fit tyres are added to the machine much like how they would be on a car, making this method a more favourable alternative. You’ll often have a choice when it comes to how the tyres are fitted, so make sure you understand what each one entails and whether it’s right for your operations.
Always calculate the weight of the load each wheel would have to take on in order for goods to be transported as safely as possible. The general rule is to select the tyre that will be able to support the load with the lowest inflation pressure.
Something else to consider is the conditions in which your forklift will be operating in. If it’ll be used outside for the most part, then select a set of tyres that are strong, durable and are a standard fit, for example.
It’s also important that you have an accurate idea of how often the forklift will be used and the application you need it for. The tyres need to be able support the load the forklift is carrying as well as keep the operator, and everyone else around the machine, safe at all times.
How to look after your forklift tyres
There are a number of different ways in which you can look after your forklift tyres, no matter what type you go for. The rules are generally the same when it comes to their maintenance, especially if they’re in storage. Here’s what you can do to look after your forklift tyres effectively:
- Check the tyre pressure on a regular basis
- Always keep the pressure at the correct level – this will also help with fuel-efficiency and the overall performance of the machine
- Keep all caps and valves covered
- Do not lower the air pressure by bleeding the tyre
- Refrain from sudden braking when the forklift is in operation, unless it’s an emergency or it’s necessary to ensure the safety of yourself and/or others
- Do not take tight corners at excessive speeds
- Avoid locking the wheel on tight turns unless it’s absolutely necessary
- Store the tyres in a cool, dark place that is also free from oil, paints, solvents, chemicals and harsh liquids
- Do not store tyres close to active electric engines
- Refrain from storing the tyres for long periods of time – you should keep them for no longer than a few months
Refurbished Forklifts are able to ensure your used forklift is fitted with the tyres that are right for you and your warehouse operations. No matter what industry you work in, we’ll have an option that’ll effortlessly meet your requirements. For more information about how we can help you today, get in touch with a member of our friendly, knowledgeable team – we’re always happy to advise and guide you through the process.
