Effects of Making a Wheel from Pure Aluminum Sheet

Aluminum is a popular metal in the manufacturing industry due to its desirable properties such as lightness, strength, and resistance to corrosion. It's used in making a wide range of products, including airplane parts, kitchen utensils, and even wheels. Aluminum sheet is also a highly abundant metal, making it an affordable option for manufacturers.

However, pure aluminum sheet is not suitable for use in industrial applications. It is too soft and malleable to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. As a result, it is often mixed with other metals to create alloys that have improved strength, durability, and other desirable properties.

If you tried to make a wheel from pure aluminum sheet without using an alloy, the wheel would not be strong enough to support the weight of a vehicle. Pure aluminum is too soft and cannot handle the pressure and stress that comes with the weight and motion of a car. It would quickly wear out, deform, and eventually fail.

Moreover, pure aluminum is not as durable as aluminum alloys. It is highly susceptible to corrosion, which would cause the wheel to rust and eventually break down. This is particularly problematic for wheels, as they are constantly exposed to road salt, debris, and moisture, all of which contribute to corrosion.

In addition to being weaker and less durable than aluminum alloys, pure aluminum is also more expensive to produce. The process of refining aluminum sheet to its pure form is energy-intensive and costly, making it less practical for industrial use.

In conclusion, making a wheel from pure aluminum without using an alloy is not advisable. It would be too weak and not durable enough to handle the demands of everyday use. Instead, aluminum alloys such as 6061 and 7075 are commonly used in wheel manufacturing due to their high strength, corrosion resistance, and other desirable properties. These alloys are also more cost-effective and practical to produce, making them a better choice for industrial applications.