The automotive industry is constantly evolving, with manufacturers and enthusiasts alike consistently seeking ways to enhance both the performance and aesthetics of vehicles. In this pursuit, alloy wheels have emerged as a popular choice for car owners.
Alloy Wheel Diamond Cutting
Damaged Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels - Expert Repair In London
Damaged diamond cut alloy wheels? We can help!
Alloy wheels are made from a combination of various metals, such as aluminum and magnesium, which provide superior strength, durability, and weight reduction compared to traditional steel wheels. One technique that has gained significant traction in recent years for enhancing the appearance of alloy wheels is alloy wheel diamond cutting.
Alloy Wheel Diamond Cutting involves precision machining the surface of the wheel using diamond-tipped cutting tools to create intricate patterns and designs. This process adds a unique visual element that sets alloy wheels apart from their counterparts.
Alloy wheel diamond cutting – The process
Once the wheels have been removed from the car, we would typically follow the below points to ensure we bring life back into your damaged wheels:
Removal of tyres
Tyres are carefully removed to enable us to gain access to the entire alloy rim. The tyres are subsequently marked with a unique code ensuring traceability throughout the repair process. Similarly, your valves and TPMS Sensors are stored safely together with your tyres.
01
Acid stripping
The wheels are dipped into acid in order to remove all paint, imperfections and contaminants. At this stage, all balancing weights, rubber valves and other accessories have been removed from the wheel. Once the paint has been removed from the wheel, they are neutralized with water to remove any excess acid from the alloy.
02
Structural inspection
Once back from acid, the wheels undergo a variety of tests checking for alloy wheel buckles, wheel cracks or any other structural defects which you will be notified of if needed. We always document this process using photos and / or videos ensuring a full report is provided to the customer.
03
Structural repairs
If any structural repairs are needed, having received your consent for us to attend to them, we will straighten and buckles or wheel bends as well as weld and alloy wheel cracks or splits. Please note that if we find your wheels to be unsafe to be put back on the road at this stage, we reserve the right to not continue with the works. This generally applies to wheels with cracked or twisted spokes or hubs.
04
The repair process
Any damage to the face of the wheels such as alloy wheel dents, wheel kerbs, kerb rushes are repaired using various sanding, welding, filling or buckle repair techniques getting them ready for powder coating and diamond cutting.
05
De-gassing
This is a crucial step in the powder coating process for alloy wheels. It involves heating the wheels to a specific temperature to remove trapped gases and moisture from the metal. This prevents the formation of bubbles and other defects in the final powder coat finish. The wheels are baked to 200c for 25 minutes.
06
Powder coating
This step involves the actual application of the dry powder to the wheel’s surface, which is then electrostatically charged and cured in an oven. This process creates a durable and long-lasting finish that is resistant to scratches, chipping, and corrosion.
07
Diamond cutting
Once the wheel is out of the powder coating oven and at room temperature, the wheel is placed in the CNC machine where is measured and a thin layer is removed of the face of the wheel giving it the mirror like effect.
08
Powder lacquer
A transparent coating, that acts as a protective shield for diamond cut wheels, shielding them from the harsh realities of the road. This durable and long-lasting finish forms an impenetrable barrier against scratches, chips, and corrosion, ensuring that your wheels maintain their captivating shine for years to come.
09
Re-installation of tyres
Each job is finished with the re-installation of tyres and rebalancing of the wheels using either silver of black balancing weights aimed ai ensuring a safe ride but also an amazing looking finish. The last step is Quality Control prior to contacting you to come and collect your newly refurbished wheels.
10
Advantages and disadvantages of diamond cut wheels
Alloy wheel diamond cutting offers a unique blend of aesthetics, durability, and enhanced performance. However, potential drawbacks such as susceptibility to damage and limited refinishing options should be considered when making a decision.
Advantages of alloy wheel diamond cutting:
Enhanced Aesthetics:
Diamond cutting imparts a captivating shine and intricate patterns to alloy wheels, elevating the overall appearance of the vehicle, and making them a sought-after choice for automotive enthusiasts. The precise detailing and exquisite finishes achieved with diamond-tipped tools give alloy wheels a distinctive look that can transform the appearance of any vehicle. Moreover, diamond cutting provides a level of customization that conventional machining methods cannot match.
Improved Heat Dissipation:
The diamond cut pattern creates grooves that facilitate better heat dissipation from the brakes, enhancing braking performance.
Disadvantages of alloy wheel diamond cutting:
Susceptibility To Damage:
The delicate nature of diamond-cut wheels makes them more prone to damage from impacts, potholes, and curbs.
Limited Refinishing Options:
Unlike standard alloy wheels, which can be easily repainted or refinished, repairing or refinishing diamond-cut wheels is a more complex and expensive process. Moreover, you can only diamond cut a wheel a limited number of times (on average 3 times) before changing its design or rendering the wheel unsafe.
Higher Cost:
Diamond cutting is a more intricate and time-consuming process, resulting in higher production costs and a higher price point for diamond-cut alloy wheels.
Durability and limitations of diamond cut finish
While diamond cut wheels offer a captivating aesthetic, their finish is generally less durable compared to powder-coated wheels. Any damage to the lacquer coating, even minor imperfections such as stone-chips, can allow water to infiltrate between the lacquer and the alloy, leading to the formation of unsightly “milky patches” or “the white worm” on the diamond cut surface.
Diamond cut wheels can be re-cut or refurbished only a limited number of times, typically two or three. This is because each recutting process removes a small portion of the alloy material. Excessive recutting can compromise the structural integrity of the wheel, making it unsafe for use or at best, it changes the design of the wheel.
Maintenance tips for alloy wheel diamond cutting
The process begins with proper cleaning and preparation before applying paint or spray onto the brake calipers. This involves removing the wheels to access the calipers and thoroughly cleaning them, ensuring the removal of any dirt, dust, or grime that may hinder proper paint adhesion.
After cleaning, the next step is choosing the appropriate paint specifically designed for high-temperature applications. These products are formulated to withstand extreme heat generated during braking and prevent premature fading or peeling.
Masking off surrounding areas is crucial to avoid overspray on other components. Once the calipers are adequately prepared, applying primer is necessary for better paint adhesion, especially in cases where caliper surfaces have imperfections or uneven textures.
The next step involves skillfully applying the chosen paint using specialist spraying guns. Proper painting techniques ensure an even finish and a seamless integration between brake calipers and other visual elements of a vehicle. Once the paint has dried, we apply your desired logos/decals and lacquer over them to ensure a long-lasting product.
Average alloy wheel diamond cutting costs
On average, alloy wheel diamond cutting costs range from £80 to £200 per wheel. However, the actual price can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned above.
For instance, diamond cutting a standard 18-inch alloy wheel with minimal damage and a simple design could cost around £80 per wheel. On the other hand, a complex pattern on a 22-inch alloy wheel with extensive repair work could cost upwards of £200 per wheel.
Conclusion to alloy wheel
diamond cutting
Repairing damaged diamond cut alloy wheels is not merely an aesthetic endeavor; it is an investment in the safety, performance, and resale value of your vehicle. Our team of dedicated alloy wheel repair specialists in London is committed to providing you with the highest level of expertise and service to restore your damaged diamond cut alloy wheels to their original brilliance. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the difference that expert alloy wheel repair can make.
