What is the difference between forged and cast wheels ?

• Manufacturing process

Casting: molten metal is poured into a casting tool and cooled to shape. The manufacturing process of casting wheels involves heating and melting the metal and injecting it into the mold, cooling and solidifying it, and then carrying out subsequent processing, such as deburring, repairing the appearance, polishing, and so on. Casting wheels can be made by gravity casting, low-pressure casting, spin casting, and many other methods.

Forging: Pressure is applied to the metal billet to deform it plastically. Forged wheels are made by applying great pressure to the metal billet through forging machinery to produce plastic deformation under pressure, gradually molding the shape of the wheel.

• Cost

Casting: Due to the relatively simple process and easy realization of mass production, the cost of casting wheels is low, and is widely used in ordinary family car models.

Forging: The process is complicated and requires high-precision equipment and a large amount of labor input, resulting in higher costs, and is usually used in high-end models or vehicles with the ultimate pursuit of performance.

• Weight and Performance

Weight: Forged wheels are typically about 20% lighter than cast wheels for the same specifications and strength requirements. This is because the forging process aligns the metal molecules in a tighter and more organized manner, increasing the density and strength of the material.

Performance: Forged wheels are harder and can better withstand impacts from the road, are less prone to deformation and damage, and are safer. Cast wheels, while performing well in daily driving, have weaker performance in extreme conditions.

• Appearance and Logo

Appearance: Casting wheels can have a wide variety of shapes due to the one-time casting, and the overall color is more uniform. Forged wheels, on the other hand, may have a combination of welded or wickerbill construction for a different look.

Logo: Forged wheels usually have the word "FORGED" printed on the wheel to show the difference.