Cause and effect determined through physics and logic

The curing compound used in the concreting process, to achieve greater precision and efficiency, is often blamed for the ongoing accumulation of undesirable floor markings. In fact, the curing compound is formulated for rapid break-down and dissipation. Any effects from the curing compound are gone after six to twelve months. So, whatever its contributing factor may have been for a brief period following construction, people are finding the black marks keep accumulating and resisting all the usual attempts at cleaning and preventative treatment. With the curing compound dismissed as the prime suspect, the discipline of engineering looks objectively at the forensic evidence and the science at work behind evident factors.

When rubber tyres are rolling normally over warehouse floors there is no problem. However, new warehouse flooring offers less friction for tyres to maintain traction and keep rolling normally. When reduced friction causes loss of traction, the tyres slip and slide, and the rubber can heat to the point of burning. The slipping and burning actions leave behind carbon and rubber residue, appearing as black marks on the floor. The problem has become more apparent in recent years because forklifts have been modified to become more powerful, the wheels are smaller in diameter, and more energy is being applied at the interface. It’s a worldwide issue, as similar concerns have been raised and solutions sought in other countries for some time.

White tyres have been tested as an alternative but the white rubber was found to be not as durable. Since black tyres last much longer, and perform better for heat absorption, changing to white tyres for cosmetic reasons would not make sense commercially. Yet, for some warehouse operators, aesthetic appearances will matter almost as much as performance. This is where engineers can more accurately identify the cause of problems and prescribe the most efficient means of achieving the desired aesthetic result.