The difference between cast and forged wheels.

Automotive wheels are divided according to the manufacturing technology into cast and forged. Before drivers who are going to buy them, the question always arises: which ones to choose? It is not always possible to figure it out on your own. And when turning to the employees of car dealerships, one cannot always hope for competent advice, since sellers need to sell stale goods. So their advice is often diametrically opposed to the truth. How are alloy wheels different from forged ones? And which one is better?

Definitions

Alloy wheels are made by casting molten metals. In most cases, these metals are magnesium and aluminum alloys. They are classified as light metals. That is why the wheels are called cast or light-alloy wheels.

Cast disc

Forged discsare made from the same metals as cast, but the production technology is different. Forged discs are produced by industrial hot stamping. After that, they go through a hardening process.

Forged wheel

Comparison

The main difference between cast and forged wheels is the production technology. Cast discs are poured using special molds, and forged blanks are stamped under high temperature and pressure. After that, stamping is processed on special machines, knitting needles are cut out in it, as well as other design elements.

The cast disc is more fragile, has a high probability of the formation of voids and hidden shells. The forged disc is much more shock-resistant. It also has a much higher damping capacity. With a strong impact, it bends, but does not break, because when stamping, the metal is more durable and has a fibrous structure. Damage can even be repaired yourself with a hammer. Alloy wheels are not subject to recovery after impact.

However, in terms of design, forged wheels are seriously inferior to cast ones. The latter have a much wider design variety, they are often equipped with foreign cars. Forged wheels are installed on domestically produced cars and SUVs. It is recommended to put them in the winter, but you must not forget to periodically clean their inner surface from accumulated dirt. Otherwise, it will noticeably impair the control of the machine. With regard to dynamics and handling, as well as ride comfort, then a car equipped with forged wheels, these parameters are much higher.

Conclusions TheDifference.ru

  1. The technology of their production is different: alloy wheels are cast into a mold, forged wheels are stamped on special equipment.
  2. Cast is much more brittle, voids are formed in them.
  3. Forged wheels are lighter than alloy wheels.
  4. The forged disc is impact resistant and has a higher damping capacity than a cast disc.
  5. In terms of design, forged wheels are inferior to cast ones. They are used to equip domestic products and SUVs.
  6. Driving dynamics and handling higher with forged wheels.
  7. Forged wheels are more expensive than alloy wheels.

By the way, you can also find out how alloy wheels differ from stamped wheels

.