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High Stength Steel Wheels: Same Weight with Lower Cost
THE WEIGHT OF STEEL WHEELS BENEFITS FROM THE USE OF NEW HIGH-STRENGTH STEELS
A study funded by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) presents some examples of wheels where the steel version was comparable in weight to their cast aluminum counterparts, with the same styling and visual appeal, yet had increased durability and were less prone to damage and leaking. In the examples cited, the rims are made from either bainitic or HSLA steel, with the disks being made from DP 350Y/600T steel.
Of course, there are plenty of examples where aluminum is and should be the material of choice based on properties needed balanced against cost. However, this decision should be made on a case-by-case basis, where the optimized products and processing are considered and compared. In the case of wheels, the steel grades considered should include the conventional and advanced high strength steels (like HSLA, bainitic, DP, etc.) rather than just mild steels.
A study funded by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) presents some examples of wheels where the steel version was comparable in weight to their cast aluminum counterparts, with the same styling and visual appeal, yet had increased durability and were less prone to damage and leaking. In the examples cited, the rims are made from either bainitic or HSLA steel, with the disks being made from DP 350Y/600T steel.
Of course, there are plenty of examples where aluminum is and should be the material of choice based on properties needed balanced against cost. However, this decision should be made on a case-by-case basis, where the optimized products and processing are considered and compared. In the case of wheels, the steel grades considered should include the conventional and advanced high strength steels (like HSLA, bainitic, DP, etc.) rather than just mild steels.
Comment:
I worked for a company back in the early 70's that were pioneers of High strength low alloy steels. Being amongst the first companies in the world to produce it, we had a great market, particularly in automotive, where strength and weight were important factors. I have a bit of info on HSLA Steels at my main site here
They seem to keep increasing the strengths all the time, as each steelmaker tries to gain the lead.
Posted by Steve | August 15, 2006 9:08 AM