TRACKTIVE EFFORT:
Compactors are expected to work where many machines will not. Irregular material, severe slopes or grades and poor weather conditions are not just encountered occasionally, but are commonplace. Therefore, refuse compactors need a wheel that is designed to consistently pull and propel the unit while pushing a load, regardless of the conditions. The tooth is the primary traction point of the wheel. Each tooth must penetrate as deep as possible to bite into the material and must be effective in these rough conditions. A wheel must have enough teeth with the proper design to accomplish this task. Typically, wheels with more teeth offer better tractive effort.

Another factor to consider is side traction. Will the tooth design hold the machine on a side slope? Or will it allow the machine to slide sideways? Look at the placement, design, configuration and number of teeth to see if the type and pattern are capable of overcoming such conditions.