Aluminum vs Alloy Wheels
The difference between aluminum and alloy wheels is quite confusing to a few, but in fact, an alloy is just shorter, and used as an alternate word for aluminum wheels. Aluminum rims or wheels, alloy wheels and aluminum alloy wheels, are all different names of the same entities.
Aluminum and alloy wheels are manufactured using casting, and some are forged. Aluminum and aluminum alloy wheels are cast in a mold in a hot liquid state, and then cooled. The process enables them to be accurate in both the heavier and lighter areas. Less weight on the wheel creates less stress on the tire, and so a balance is created.
Cast wheels are cheaper than forged wheels, which are lighter and stronger. Aluminum or alloy wheels are also popular for cosmetic purposes. Aluminum and alloy wheels are largely corrosion-resistant, but prone to galvanic corrosion. They are available in attractive bare-metal finishes. Their anti rust properties cause them to have no need for paint, or wheel covers.
Aluminum alloy and alloy wheels are not easy to repair, but repair is cheaper than replacement. As they are more expensive, they are marketed as optional add-ons. Aluminum and alloy wheels are used to increase performance. They are popular to manipulate handling and suspension, as well as signify luxury or wealth.
Aluminum and alloy wheels are suitable for milder temperatures, and are lighter in weight with a faster acceleration speed, as the rotational mass reduces because of less weight, and they are quickly braked. Aluminum and alloy wheels are manufactured by combining different metals, which makes them less ductile. They are homogeneous hybrid casts, and manufactured in many types of alloy wheels, such as forged aluminum, one piece and two piece cast alloy wheels etc.
Out of all the types, forged aluminum alloys are most expensive wheels. Forged aluminum wheels are stronger but lighter than alloy wheels. Carbon fiber aluminum wheels are lighter than most of the other alloy wheels, but also expensive with the disadvantage that they can break. Aluminum wheels provide a lighter mass weight for sports cars, and are also machined for a brilliant appearance. Aluminum and alloy wheels are manufactured for street going cars and light trucks. The finish of aluminum and alloy wheels are high gloss, chrome shadow, chrome plating and chrome. Cast aluminum and alloy wheels give optimum solidification, distribution of weight and optimization of weight. The advantages of aluminum and alloy wheels are that they are available in any size, and come with weight saving technology. They can be painted or bright machines. Alloy wheels are an alloy of aluminum, with magnesium, which makes them more durable and cheaper. Alloy wheels can be purchased for less than $100 per wheel, or up to more than $1000
1. Aluminum and alloy wheels are different names of the same entities.
2. Alloy wheels are lightweight and corrosion resistant.
3. Aluminum and alloy wheels are also used for cosmetic purposes, and for racing cars
4. Aluminum and alloy wheels are stronger, and can be painted or left as they are.
5. Some of the types of aluminum or alloy wheels, such as forged aluminum and carbon fiber wheels, are extremely expensive.