Stage 1: Aluminum Ingot
Aluminum ingots are produced by pouring molten aluminum into special molds. The ingots themselves can vary in size depending on the need.
Stage 2: Aluminum Casting
Aluminum castings are formed by pouring molten metal into molds that have been shaped by a pattern of the desired final product. Three common types of molding methods are used to produce castings: die casting, permanent mold casting, and sand casting. Permanent mold casting is used for creating alloy or aluminum wheels.
Stage 3: Rough Machining
Rough machining is a process mainly used to remove excess, bulk material rapidly and roughly shape the workpiece to the desired form. The roughing process makes the subsequent processes more convenient and efficient.
Stage 4: Fine Machining
Fine machining is the process of shaping large pieces of material into more precise parts to meet specifications. This process is generally performed using CNC equipment. CNC machining is one of the most versatile manufacturing processes available today and aluminum is among the most popular material choices. CNC machining aluminum alloys provide manufacturers huge flexibility for product manufacturing.
Stage 5: Painting
In preparation for painting, the aluminum is cleaned of any oil or grease. After cleaning the surface, it’s left to dry completely. A self-etching Primer is applied
in 3-4 coats and the aluminum is sanded. For the best finish, 4-5 coats of paint
is applied to the aluminum. Finally, the item is left in a dry place for at least
24 hours.
Stage 6: Impact load testing
Test rims are selected and impact tested for quality and safety. Tensile or tension tests are simple, relatively inexpensive, standardized and commonly
used to measure strength, yield strength and elongation. Results of tensile testing are essential for comparison of materials, quality control, alloy development, certifying the integrity of a product and reduction in area of
non-ferrous materials.
Stage 7: Inspection and cleaning
Rims are visually inspected. We work closely with our clients to determine the optimum number of hours that wheels and rims should be in service before being tested, helping eliminate pre-emptive inspections and unnecessary equipment down time.
Stage 8: Packaging
Rims are mostly packaged in protective dish packing foam or bubble wrap. Special attention is given to protect the lips and face of the wheel for added protection at times.
