Differences between steel and alloy wheels - Vol.69
Are you out in the market for car wheels? Well, it is slightly tricky task. Many people think that is very easy to choose wheels. However one needs to keep several points in mind while choosing car wheels. Auto parts market today is flooded with literally hundreds of wheel options. There are both cosmetic as well as functional differences. ?eWhich material is best' can be a topic for debate. Alloy and steel are the most common materials. You can also find some wheels made up of carbon fiber. Majority of the vehicle today feature alloy or steel rims. Like all other things, there are pros and corns of both types of vehicles. So, it can be really tricky to choose which one is the best. However, alloy wheels are extensively supposed to be better as compared to steel wheels.
Weight: this is one of the biggest differences between steel and alloy wheels. As compared to alloy aluminum, steel wheels are heavier. Thus, due to less weight alloy wheels can give a performance benefit. In general, alloy wheels offer the better fuel efficiency and better handling while making your car more agile. That is why most of the performance cars prefer to use alloy wheels. It is essential to keep in mind that only few alloys are lighter as compared to the steel wheels. So, you should be alert while choosing the one.
Strength: Alloy wheels are generally crafted from aluminum or compound of magnesium and aluminum. Usually, these wheels are created with the aim to offer strength. This is why they are used in racing cars. On the other hand, steel wheels are manufactured using stamped center, which is usually welded on outside of rim. Therefore as compared to steel wheels, alloy wheels are less likely to bend over pot holes.
Heat dissipation: As compared to steel, heat is better dissipated by alloy. Thus, cars having alloy wheels are seen to have slight braking enhancement due to less heat close to the brakes. In addition, it is less prone to wheel cracking. However, steel wheels are not as porous as alloys. The porosity in alloys is caused because of the casting process for manufacturing. Alloy wheels feature an open spoke design. Due to this design more air is allowed to get in. This cools the brakes. As more heat is retained by steel as compared to alloys, many times, a tire affixed on a steel wheel is more prone for blowing out.
Wide range: It is true that nowadays, wide collection steel wheels in different styles, patterns and designs are available. However, you can get lots of more choices when it comes to alloy wheels. Several reputed companies specialize in manufacturing a wide collection high quality, low-weight yet affordable alloy wheels. You can even get wide choice of various sizes in alloy wheels as well.
Looks: in general, as compared to steel wheels, alloy wheels offer superior looks. Alloy wheels are available in a wide range of finishes. You can choose from painted, chromed or polished depending on your budget. You can even get them in multi-piece designs or one-piece design. Usually stamped steel wheels offer plain looks. You can get painted or chromed steel wheels as well. However, many car enthusiasts prefer steel wheels for their classic cars due to vintage appearance they offer.
Cost: when it comes to buying wheels, cost is the most essential aspect. As compared to alloy wheels, steel wheels are very cost effective. As steel wheels are manufactured by using less exotic materials with less complex manufacturing procedures, steel wheels are less expensive as compared to alloy wheels.
All above factors will help you choose correct types of wheels for your vehicle. You can choose the one that suit your needs, style and budget.