CNC Wheel Machines
Manufacturing finished wheels involves several steps and componentry. Often wheels are mistakenly referred to as hubs or rims depending on the conversation. However, finished wheels consist of hubs and rims because they are all machined simultaneously within the same cutting process. So, it’s understandable how the 3 terms can be used interchangeably.
Finished wheel componentry consist not only of the hubs and rims but also items such as wheel covers, hubcaps, center caps, spokes, valve stem hole, bearings, and bolts/lug nuts. The rim flange is the outer edge of the rim that prevents the rubber wheels from slipping off while the vehicle is in motion. The bead seat is located on the rim ensuring the tire maintains sufficient air pressure and doesn’t go flat. Both the rim flange and bead seat are not listed under additional componentry because they are machined on the wheel during the initial cutting process, just like the rim flange and bead seat. Finally, the wheel hub mounting area, or hub flange, is located on the axels and allows the wheel to be bolted onto the vehicle’s axels.
There are many factors to consider when machining quality wheels, whether it be in mass-production or repairing single units. You Ji’s WV wheel machine series and YV vertical turning series have been producing wheels for more than 20 years. Both are interchangeable in either an automated cell consisting of multiple machines, or a single machine operation. You Ji CNC wheel machines have turned millions of wheels around the world for various Tier One companies that supply wheels to top automotive manufacturers.
General Steps Taken to Produce a Single Wheel
- Material selection: Choose a suitable metal material for the wheel hub based on the requirements of your application, such as strength, durability, and compatibility with the vehicle. Common choices include steel, aluminum, or cast iron.
- Design and planning: Determine the dimensions, specifications, and features of the wheel based on the vehicle’s requirements. Consider factors such as bolt hole patterns, flange diameter, overall diameter, and any additional features required.
- Material preparation: Obtain a metal stock or raw material in or close to the size that matches the dimensions of the desired wheel hub. Ensure the material is suitable for machining.
- Set up the lathe: Mount the metal stock securely onto the chuck of the machine. Ensure it is properly centered and aligned to prevent vibrations or inaccuracies during the turning process.
- Roughing: Use appropriate cutting tools, such as lathe tools or end mills, to remove excess material and create the basic shape of the wheel. Roughing cuts help remove bulk material quickly and efficiently.
- Turning: Use a cutting tool, such as a lathe tool or boring bar, to shape the outer diameter, inner diameter, and any other surfaces of the wheel. Follow the dimensions and specifications required for proper fitment.
- Drilling: Use suitable drills to create the bolt holes on the flange of the wheel. Ensure the hole size, spacing, and alignment match the specifications required for proper fitment.
- Finishing: Use cutting tools, such as chamfering tools or deburring tools, to remove any sharp edges, burrs, or imperfections from the machined surfaces. This step helps ensure a smooth and safe wheel.
- Quality inspection: Thoroughly inspect the turned wheel hub for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and any other specifications required. Use measuring tools, such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, or even lasers to verify that the hub meets the desired tolerances.
- Post-machining treatment: Depending on the material chosen, you may need to perform additional treatments like heat treatment, surface coating, or corrosion protection to enhance the wheel’s properties and durability.
- Installation: Once the turned wheel has passed all quality inspections and treatments, it can be installed on vehicles following the manufacturer’s recommended procedures. Ensure proper torque settings and alignment during installation.
The Absolute Advantage
- Unmatched expertise: With years of experience in the automotive industry, You Ji has earned in-depth knowledge of the challenges the industry faces. Our team of experts together with You Ji also knows that one size does not fit all, and that is why we can provide customized solutions that satisfy your production needs. Not all importers/distributors can say this, but Absolute Machine Tools and You Ji can!
- Cutting-edge technology:Â We stay at the forefront of technological advancements in the automotive industry. By partnering with us, you gain access to the latest innovations that enhance your manufacturing capabilities and give you a competitive edge.
- Superior quality & reliability: At Absolute Machine Tools, quality is our top priority. We partner with renowned manufacturers known for their precision and reliability. In fact our relationship with You Ji spans over 30 years. Our CNC wheel machines undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet the highest standards, guaranteeing exceptional performance and longevity.
- Comprehensive support & training: We don’t just provide machinery; we provide complete support and training to ensure your team is fully equipped to leverage our solutions effectively. Our experienced technicians are always available to provide assistance, training, and ongoing support, ensuring optimal performance and minimal downtime.
- Cost: Absolute Machine Tools no only provides the highest quality CNCs and service, but our machine costs are often less than other brand of CNC machine tools.
Partner with Absolute Machine Tools Today
When it comes to automotive manufacturing excellence, Absolute Machine Tools is the partner you can trust. We are committed to helping you achieve operational efficiency, maximize productivity, and stay ahead in the competitive automotive industry. Complete the form below to contact us today to learn more about our cutting-edge machinery and customized solutions tailored to your unique needs. Together, let’s drive success in the automotive manufacturing landscape.
