Main Differences between Pneumatic and Solid Cushion Tire Forklifts

Forklifts make for a valuable moving and loading machine in any warehouse and manufacturing operation. The small size and maneuverability of the forklift enable efficient work, which is what the machine is all about. That is the reason why forklifts are so popular and so indispensible.

Being able to navigate small spaces with ease ensures that work with forklifts goes smooth and easy. One of the contributing factors for this is the forklift tires that the machine is equipped with. Since these machines are very much needed, the floors of certain buildings such as warehouses and stores are designed to go easy on the forklift tires. That alone doesn’t guarantee they will fare superbly, as tire quality and design are also very important.

It is clear that having top quality tiers is beneficial, but what about the type of those tires. Generally, as far as forklifts are concerned, there are 2 types to look out for: pneumatic and solid cushion tires. Both are different, as they represent different design and application. It is important to keep in mind this, as the performance of each type varies based on the conditions it is used in. Although both tires feature rubber, there are differences that dictate their use and how they operate. Understanding those differences can give you a clue what forklift is best for you – a pneumatic tire one or a solid cushion tire one. Here is what you should bear in mind:

Design – solid cushion tires usually feature smooth rubber compound attached to a metal band. Pneumatic tires are practically the same as car tires – they feature treaded rubber and are filled with air. As the word pneumatic dictates, these tires are operated and contain air under pressure.
Application – solid cushion tires are largely preferred for indoor work. They are your best bet for manufacturing and warehouse facilities, as well as specialized stores. Pneumatic tires on the other hand are mostly used for outdoor work, where terrain is more rugged. They are the more resilient option and therefore serve for tough outdoor work projects.
Terrain – as it was already mentioned, pneumatic tires can be equipped for work on uneven terrain, asphalt and gravel. Solid cushion tires on the other hand can also be used for outdoor work, but it is generally a good idea to include them only for asphalt and concrete.
Varieties – pneumatic tires come in two different types: solid and air. Solid tires are made of rubber only, which means there is no danger of flats. They are the best bet for work that involves moving loads in a scrap yard, or any location where debris is present. A point against them is the harder ride they provide. Air tires are the ones to go with for a softer ride, but with them there is always a chance for flats. Solid cushion tires are featured with treads, but often times they come in a treadless pattern in order to avoid leaving rubber marks on the floor.
Dimensions – as a general rule, forklifts that use solid cushion tires are more maneuverable. That is because the tires themselves are situated lower to the ground. As a result, they have a low turning radius, meaning they can cope with narrow and confined spaces with ease. Pneumatic tires are used on wider and longer machines, which is why they are generally preferred for outdoor work.

If you are looking to buy a forklift, and you are having difficulties selecting the right one based on the tires, you need to keep one thing in mind: there is an option which combines the best of both worlds – McLaren’s solid cushion tires with semi-pneumatic technology.

Two major features make these tires a top option for any forklift and any work involved with the machine:

Outer layer of resilient compound for longevity and strength.
Inner layer of soft compound for a smooth ride.

These tires are considered some of the best money can buy and they can surely contribute a lot to the performance of your forklift. Do consider this when you set out to purchase a machine like that.

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