Thorough tire knowledge,
assessment of the operating environment as well as the field of application –
according to BKT experts, these are the three elements that lead to knowledgeable
decisions when it comes to evaluating which tires are best suited to one's
needs
BKT,
the leading Off-Highway tire manufacturer has always been focused on its
product’s quality being synonymous with performance, safety, and durability as
proven by rigorous testing. Yet, when choosing the most suitable tires for
specific usage conditions such as those typical of industrial environments,
several factors come into play, which are all crucial in ensuring smooth running
and continued operation.
As a matter of fact, in
industrial settings, tires can significantly impact the overall performance,
safety and cost of operations. That is why BKT has prepared a guide outlining
the elements to consider when choosing the ideal tires for material handling
equipment.
A good starting point is to
identify the distinguishing features and advantages that differentiate them
from one another, thus making them suitable for certain conditions and
different fields of application. Solid tires, for example, are puncture
resistant, and hence ideal for harsh environments or those typically
characterized by sharp elements, debris, and rough surfaces. Cross-ply tires,
on the other hand, ensure excellent resistance against impacts and punctures,
stand for greater stability and comfort when used on uneven surfaces, and can
generally handle higher loads than radial tires. By contrast, the latter
provide greater fuel efficiency, increased durability, and a smoother ride
compared to cross-ply tires, especially at higher speeds.
"Analyzing the various
types of tires enables making informed decisions based on the intended final
usage, but it is also crucial that the product suits the working environment.
In this regard, it is wise to consider the surface conditions where the
equipment will be operating, as well as possible exposure to chemicals and
temperature," comments Piero Torassa, Field Engineering Manager at BKT. -
"Load capacity and tire size are likewise crucial factors. In particular,
overloading can actually lead to premature wear and potential safety
hazards."
That is why BKT tires are
rigorously tested to ensure optimum performance under a wide variety of
conditions and, most importantly, to improve the safety and comfort of workers
operating in industrial environments.
First and foremost, among
the most popular and widely used tires in the BKT range, there is LIFTMAX LM
81, a tire for forklifts and industrial tractors employed in heavy-duty
operations. It features a durable and robust tread design and is made of a
unique antistatic compound to ensure resistance to electrostatic energy buildup
from the vehicle, providing at the same time low wear and a long tire life. It
is distinguished by its solid All-Steel casing and the reinforced sidewall,
which provide stability and safety in lift mode, as well as exceptional
traction. The tire also complies with antistatic standards, and, as a result of
its features, it dissipates static charge from the equipment.
MAGLIFT (RIM GUARD),
instead, has been developed for forklifts that are typically employed for the
heaviest tasks in industrial environments and logistics operations. It features
a solid and robust tread pattern, provides exceptional front and side traction,
and boasts high load capacity without compromising operator’s ride comfort; the
tire's special bead edge ensures protection against wheel damage while ensuring
exceptional durability and strength. The tread is also distinguished by low
rolling resistance, while the reinforced bead structure prevents the risk of
slippage on the rim. The tire is particularly cut-and-chip resistant resulting
in a longer product life-cycle.
And finally, for industrial
environments that are characterized by low temperatures, BKT has designed SNOW
GRIP, which is again ideal for forklifts. The tire has a unique tread design
with special edges that provide unparalleled grip and stability on cold,
slippery, or icy surfaces in addition to excellent stability and braking
performance.
No matter for which
solution you opt, it is essential to rely on tires that are specifically
designed to meet the typical needs of this sector, and to contribute to safe
material handling and streamlined processes. A set of elements that is
reflected in practical terms in BKT tires, each of which has its own specific
functions and features, but they are all united by high quality standards.
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