CAST ALLOYS
The vast majority of alloy wheels are produced using a casting method. This process is relatively inexpensive compared to other means of manufacture. It’s easy to control and allows for quick production, keeping the price of the finished wheel low.
There are two main casting methods used in alloy wheel production: gravity casting and negative pressure casting. Gravity casting involves pouring molten alloy into a mould and allowing it to cool. Once cooled, the mould is opened and the cast wheel is removed.
Negative pressure casting works in a similar way, but instead of pouring molten alloy into a mould with a gravity cast system, it’s drawn up into the mould using a high-pressure vacuum. This helps to eliminate gas (which can sometimes get trapped as a result of the casting process), resulting in a stronger wheel that’s less porous.