Light alloy castor forged wheel The latest trend in case of automobile wheels is the use of wheels made from aluminum or magnesium alloys cast wheels are generally used for cars while forged wheels are preferred for wheels of heavier vehicles. The main advantage of light-alloy wheels is their reduced weight which reduces unsprung weight. A magnesium alloy wheel weighs about 50 percent of a steel wheel and about 70 percent of an aluminum alloy wheel for similar strength. Moreover, light alloys have better conductivity of heat which helps the wheels to dissipate heat generated by the tyres or brakes and thereby run cooler. Further, wider rims improve stability on cornering. Through castor forged wheels have to be machined, yet this helps to maintain close tolerances and also produce better appearance. Magnesium alloys have high impact and fatigue strength so that they can stand vibrations and shock loading better. However, being tune to corrosion, these have to be given some protective coating. Aluminum alloys do not have high resistance to vibration and shock as in case of magnesium alloys, but these are relatively easier to castor forge and also less tune to corrosion. Generally, aluminum alloys are used for cars sports and racing cars usually have magnesium alloy wheels. Higher cost is the only disadvantage of light alloy wheels. Wheel styling being a modern trend in automotive industry, wheel division of Dunlop Limited has designed a range of wheels of cast aluminum alloy and designated this range as Formula D This range also includes composite wheels, i.e. the wheels with cast aluminum body alloy and steel rims.
