Different production types for wheels: Cast, Flowform, Hybrid-Forged, and Forged wheels.

When choosing wheels, it is important to understand the differences between the various production techniques. The production method affects the wheel's weight, strength, price, and performance. Here are the four most common types:

Cast Wheels
Production method:

• Molten aluminum is poured into a mold and cooled.
• After cooling, the wheel is processed to achieve the desired design and finish.

Advantages:
✅ Affordable price – the most cost-effective method.
✅ Allows for complex designs.

Disadvantages:
❌ Heavier than other wheel types, which can impact performance.
❌ Less durable and more prone to cracks and damage under harsh conditions.

Suitable for:
Everyday cars and those looking for affordable wheels with an aesthetic appearance.

Flow-Formed Wheels
Production method:

• Starts with a cast wheel, but the outer part of the wheel is heated and stretched under high pressure.
• This process makes the material denser and stronger, similar to a forged wheel.

Advantages:
✅ Lower weight and higher strength compared to cast wheels.
✅ Better performance and responsiveness on the road.
✅ More cost-effective than fully forged wheels.

Disadvantages:
❌ Not as light and strong as forged wheels.

Suitable for:
Those looking for a good balance between price, weight, and strength.

Hybrid-Forged Wheels
Production method:

• An advanced version of flowforming, where forged spokes are combined with a flow-formed barrel.
• The process creates a wheel that is lighter and stronger than regular flow-formed wheels.

Advantages:
✅ Close to the strength of fully forged wheels, but at a lower price.
✅ Lightweight for better handling and acceleration.
✅ High wear resistance and durability.

Disadvantages:
❌ Still not as light or strong as 100% forged wheels.

Suitable for:
Performance-oriented cars where weight and strength are important, but the budget does not stretch to forged wheels.

Forged Wheels
Production method:

• Aluminum blanks are pressed under extremely high pressure (10,000 tons or more), making the material denser and stronger.
• The wheel is then machined to achieve the desired design and finish.

Advantages:
✅ Extremely lightweight – lower weight improves acceleration, braking, and handling.
✅ Superior strength and durability – withstands harsh conditions without cracking.
✅ Better heat dissipation, reducing stress on the brakes.

Disadvantages:
❌ Expensive – the most advanced and costly production method.

Suitable for:
Supercars, sports cars, and premium cars where performance and weight are critical.

Summary
Which wheel type is best for you depends on your budget, driving style, and car type. At Steinkjer Bilformidling (SBF Dekk & Felg AS), we specialize in Hybrid-Forged and Forged wheels as these provide the optimal balance of performance, strength, and weight.

Do you have questions or need advice on which wheel type is best for your car? Contact us! 🚗💨