Three-piece split steel rims are the standard wheel solution for forklifts, port loaders and light OTR machinery. Unlike one-piece welded rims or performance 3-piece alloy wheels, this split rim set consists of rim base, side ring and lock ring, designed for easy tire mounting and field maintenance.
Core Components
- Rim Base The main load-bearing body with bolt holes for hub mounting. It forms the primary tire bead seat and carries all working loads. It is manufactured from high-strength carbon steel, shot-blasted and painted for rust resistance.
- Side Ring (Flange Ring) Sits between the tire bead and lock ring. It holds the outer tire bead in position and prevents side deflection under heavy load.
- Lock Ring (Snap Ring) The critical safety retaining clip. It locks the side ring in place after tire installation. Proper seating of the lock ring is the top safety check before inflation.
Working Principle
The three parts are disassembled to fit the tire onto the rim base. After the tire is positioned, fit the side ring, then snap the lock ring into the groove on the rim base to secure the assembly. No wheel press is required for tire replacement, which saves time in warehouses, yards and mining sites.
✅ Advantages
Simple tire change, no special hydraulic press needed
Replace single damaged ring instead of the whole rim
Heavy load capacity, shock-resistant for rough ground
Low cost and easy stock of spare rings for fleets
⚠️ Critical Safety Note Lock ring failure under air pressure can cause severe accidents. Always inspect lock rings for cracks, deformation or wear before inflation. Follow standard split rim inflation procedures.