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Quality alloy wheels can make a huge difference to a car with
handling and performance. The lightness and strength of alloy
ensures better braking efficiency and manoeuvrability therefore
improving the safety of a vehicle in difficult or wet driving
conditions. As a better heat conductor, the lesser impact on brakes
also means more longevity for your tyres.
Like most things, you get what you pay for. Most if not
all motor vehicle manufacturers, now offer models within their
vehicle range fitted with cast alloy wheels, in lieu of
conventional steel wheels. The reasons relate to vehicle
performance, engineering excellence, safety and visual
appearance.
The benefits of fitting alloy wheels are:
● Alloy wheels are around 30% lighter than
steel wheels and reduce the unsprung weight of the vehicle's
suspension. A reduction in unsprung weight provides a smoother
ride, reduces vehicle harshness and extends the life of suspension
components.
● The reduction in weight achieved by fitting
alloy wheels, acts to decrease a vehicle's rolling resistance -
thus improving tyre life and reducing emissions through improved
fuel consumption.
● Heat generated from high speed braking
applications can affect braking performance, to the point of
failure.
Alloy wheels conduct up to three times the
amount of heat of steel wheels. This enhanced dissipation of heat
through the alloy wheel casting, improves overall brake
performance, minimises brake fade, reduces brake fluid temperature
and extends brake pad and tyre life.
● The manufacturing process of steel and alloy
wheels is vastly different.
Steel wheels comprise of two sections -
A centre disc which is stamped under high
pressure.
A rim section which is rolled to contour from flat steel
sheet.
The centre disc is of a thicker material than the rim
section.
Both sections are pressed together and then welded into one
component - facilitating errors in tolerance and run-out.
Alloy wheels are cast from molten ingots of specific high grade
aluminium alloy, machined to tolerance from a single datum point in
a CNC machining centre and then heat treated to a T6 condition for
superior strength. Precision casting and machining of alloy wheels
results in superior concentricity and manufacturing tolerances,
thus eliminating vibration and minimising vehicle harshness.
● The physical nature of producing alloy wheels
by casting, allows wheel makers to offer wider variety in
contemporary design and finish, not capable of being produced or
found in steel wheels.
Tyres and More stock a wide range of Alloy Wheels to suit your
budget and your style. These include our flagship range Advan. For more
details why not contact your local Tyres and More store.
