Selecting Between Cushion & Pneumatic Tires
Significantly contributing to the handling and safety of the equipment are forklift tires. They also impact the maintenance expenses. The type of forklift determines to a large extent the kind of tire because most forklifts are made with a particular frame which accepts just a specific type of tire. It helps to understand the properties of both cushion and pneumatic tires before choosing a tire.
Instructions
1 For tire specifications, you should check your forklift owner handbook. Most likely your forklift runs either on cushion tires or pneumatic tires. This would limit your options to the kind of tire wherein the forklift frame is built.
2 Check the kind of forklift. Electric forklift trucks and electric pallet jack trucks are normally constructed to use cushion tires that do not require a lot of friction. Pneumatic tires are usually utilized for forklifts which run on diesel or liquid propane gas.
3 Check the type of terrain. Soft cushion tires are made for even grounds while pneumatic tires are best for rough terrain. Cushion tires, if used on surfaces which are uneven, can cause the forklift to get stuck since they are set lower. Pneumatic tires perform well on crushed concrete, gravel and packed stones but not on really rough terrain and potholed surfaces.
4 Make sure you know the space limitations. Forklifts utilized mostly indoors need to be able to pivot in limited areas. Cushion tires work better than pneumatic tires in those types of situations.
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