When to Consider Solid, Flat-proof Tires
Tires are expensive; the wear and tear add up.
When a tire is punctured on off-road equipment, it’s not just a call to AAA. They can be large, awkward to move, and difficult to replace remotely—and while that replacement work is being done the equipment is not working.
Depending on the equipment and the applications, solid, airless tires might be an option.
Though more expensive than air-filled (pneumatic) tires, the cost savings in avoiding frequent replacement may make the initial cost worth it. There are numerous benefits; the lack of flats is only one.
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Solid tires are made of high-quality compounds. Tag Equipment, a tire, track, parts, and attachment seller in Ontario, Canada, says they are designed to have a lifespan three times longer than pneumatic tires.
They are also puncture resistant and have extra deep treads to provide more traction. Being bonded to their rims helps prevent tire slippage.
The benefits add up to produce better control in rough conditions and increased stability.
For skid steers specifically, which find themselves in all kinds of applications including difficult clean-up jobs in and around debris, solid tires allow them to work on and off-road, reduce shock-related damage to components, and add weight to further stabilize the machine.
Managers must decide which kind solid tire to purchase, all-terrain (with treads) or smooth (no treads).
All-terrain, treaded solid tires are designed for variable ground conditions, including dirt and mud. If used exclusively for on-road applications, they may not last the lifespan needed.
Smooth solid tires will not experience the kind of tread flexing that can lead to early wear. There is less traction, however, so they belong on flatter job sites where traction is not crucial.
For skid steers (and much of the information is also applicable to wheel loaders, another frequent user of solid tires) Tag has a handy solid versus pneumatic tire choice guide based on application.
- Construction. The right tire for a construction project will depend on ground conditions. Use pneumatic tires on job sites with smooth pavement. Flat-proof or solid tires can be ideal for rough terrain.
- Demolition. These jobs require durable, solid tires to move over debris and material on the ground.
- Recycling. Use solid tires to combat broken metal, glass, and other objects.
- Mining. What's on the haul road or underneath the cycle path of the loader? Pneumatic tires may be used with caution, but solid ones provide better performance on rough terrain.
- Standard usage. Use pneumatic tires for driving over dirt or sand.
When does a wheel loader make more sense than a skid steer?
Solid tires derive their benefits from special rubber compounds engineered to provide wear resistance and flexibility. These compounds can be mixed with additives to make them tougher.
Many solid tires also have reinforcing materials such as Kevlar fibers. Steel belts also may be used. Heat resistance is also “baked in,” allowing them to perform on extremely high temperature jobs.
About the Author
Frank Raczon
Raczon’s writing career spans nearly 25 years, including magazine publishing and public relations work with some of the industry’s major equipment manufacturers. He has won numerous awards in his career, including nods from the Construction Writers Association, the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, and BtoB magazine. He is responsible for the magazine's Buying Files.