The weight savings achieved by Alcoa’s blanks are impressive: the 19 inch wheel weighs 5.9 kg, compared with 11 kg for the average cast alternative. The Alcoa blanks use aerospace-derived metallurgy combined with a superior grain structure, offering exceptional strength and durability.
“The negative impact of unsprung mass on ride and handling is well known, but as wheel sizes increase the rotational inertia also becomes important,” explained commercial manager for Alcoa Auto Wheel Products, Europe.
“A lot of energy is needed to accelerate and decelerate a heavy wheel," he continued. "A fast-rotating rim also has a significant gyroscopic affect that affects steering feel and response. Taking weight out of the wheel, particularly the rim and spokes, reduces energy consumption and improves vehicle acceleration, braking, handling fuel economy and emissions.”
Solomon Alsberg produces the wheels using standard, pre-shaped blanks, creating a wide range of designs in relatively low volumes.
"We are delighted to be building on our established relationship with Solomon Alsberg,” Yates concluded. “Our blanks allow them to create stronger, lighter wheels in a range of styles, helping them to deliver a very competitive range that offers something new and compelling in the demanding high-performance and luxury market sectors.”
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