what materials are used to make wheels?

Wheels are a crucial component of most mechanical vehicles, enabling essential motion, maneuverability and stability. In order for wheels to effectively perform their primary functions, the materials used to construct them must be durable, dependable and capable of withstanding a variety of environmental elements.

The materials used to make wheels range from metal alloys such as steel and aluminum, composites or polymers, wood and even natural stone. The most common material for wheels is steel due to its strength and low cost. Steel is also corrosion-resistant and free from thermal expansion, making it an ideal material for vehicle applications. Steel wheels may be covered with hub caps or metal alloy wheel covers in order to give them a more refined look.

Aluminum alloy is becoming increasingly popular due to its lightweight nature, rigidity and low cost. These wheels are relatively light compared to steel wheels and offer improved inertia which can have a positive effect on vehicle performance and fuel efficiency. Aluminum wheels also provide better durability when exposed to certain road or weather conditions such as gravel roads or icy surfaces due to the enhanced grip it provides over steel wheels thanks to its higher coefficient of friction.

Composite materials such as carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) are also gaining traction in the market as they are extremely light and yet still provide strength comparable with that of metals; CFRP wheels can be machined into any shape desired while maintaining rigidity at specific load points which enhances their practical usage. Wood was previously used as a paving material but has since made way for more modern materials like rubber composites which offer improved shock absorption capabilities needed when negotiating rough terrain or high speeds on paved surfaces. Natural stones like granite were used by the Romans of old who believed them to be stronger than manmade materials. Stone-pressed or "natura" wheels still exist now but are usually relegated for off-road recreational use only due to their lack of strength in comparison with modern wheel materials.

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