The Difference between Flow Form, Cast and Forged wheels
When it comes to aftermarket wheels for your car, there are three main types: forged, flow-formed, and cast wheels. Each of these types has its own unique characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks. In this post, we'll explore the differences between forged, flow-formed, and cast wheels to help you make an informed decision when upgrading your wheels.
Forged wheels are the most expensive and highest quality wheels on the market. They are created by heating a solid block of aluminum to a high temperature and then using immense pressure to shape the metal into the desired wheel shape. The process of forging creates a wheel that is incredibly strong and lightweight. Forged wheels are the go-to choice for performance enthusiasts who demand the highest levels of strength and weight savings.
One of the main benefits of forged wheels is their strength. The forging process creates a wheel that is much stronger than cast or flow-formed wheels. This means that they are less likely to crack or bend. Additionally, forged wheels are typically lighter than cast or flow-formed wheels, which can improve your car's handling and acceleration.
However, there are also some drawbacks to forged wheels. The main one is the cost. Forged wheels are the most expensive of the three types, with prices often exceeding $1,000-$2000 per wheel. Fortunately Modern Muscle wheels start at $900 per wheel. Additionally, the production process is time-consuming, so you may have to wait longer to receive your wheels but the built time will be definitely worth your time and money. Modern Muscle wheels have a quick turn around time at 4-5 weeks.
Flow-formed wheels are a hybrid of forged and cast wheels. They are made by pouring molten aluminum into a cast, which is then spun at a high speed while heated. This process stretches and compresses the aluminum, creating a wheel that is stronger than a cast wheel but not as strong as a forged wheel. Flow-formed wheels are typically less expensive than forged wheels but more expensive than cast wheels.
One of the main benefits of flow-formed wheels is their balance of strength and weight. They are stronger than cast wheels and almost as strong as forged wheels, but they are also lighter than cast wheels. This can help improve your car's handling and acceleration without sacrificing durability.
The main drawback of flow-formed wheels is that they are still more expensive than cast wheels. Additionally, they may not be as strong as forged wheels, which could be a concern for drivers who demand the highest levels of performance.
Cast wheels are the most common type of aftermarket wheel. They are made by pouring molten aluminum into a mold and allowing it to cool and harden. Cast wheels are the least expensive of the three types and are a popular choice for drivers who want to upgrade their wheels without breaking the bank.
The main benefit of cast wheels is their affordability. They are the least expensive of the three types, which makes them a popular choice for drivers on a budget. Additionally, cast wheels are typically available in a wide variety of styles and sizes, so you can find the perfect wheels to match your car's look.
However, cast wheels are also the weakest of the three types. They are more likely to crack or bend under extreme driving conditions, which can be a concern for performance enthusiasts. Additionally, cast wheels are typically heavier than forged or flow-formed wheels, which can negatively impact your car's handling and acceleration.
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing aftermarket wheels for your car, there are a lot of factors to consider. If you are a performance enthusiast who demands the highest levels of strength and weight savings, forged wheels are the way to go. If you want a balance of strength and weight savings without breaking the bank, flow-formed wheels are a good choice. And if you are on a budget and want to upgrade your wheels without spending a lot of money, cast wheels are the most affordable option.
