Why Fleets and OEMs Are Choosing Dura-Bright® Wheels Over Other Finish Options
These days, everyone’s after the next big thing—especially when it comes to wheels. We’ve all seen the shiny finishes making waves, but here’s the catch: while they look great fresh off the line, they don’t always age well. We’re starting to see more and more issues pop up—peeling, cracking, and wear, particularly around those tricky handholes where finishes have a hard time sticking.
This is where Dura-Bright®(DB) wheels really shine and stand out over Other Finish Options. Unlike finishes that sit on top of the wheel and are prone to peeling, DB is different. It’s a surface treatment that goes deep into the metal, meaning you won’t see peeling or cracking. You get a wheel that keeps looking great with less fuss and maintenance.
Now, let’s talk performance. One big advantage of DB wheels? No torquing issues. Yep, you read that right—Dura-Bright® doesn’t interfere with how the wheel is mounted.
Some other finishes can actually cause problems, where the wheel isn’t held securely by the nuts and studs. That’s a headache nobody wants.
And if you’ve ever dealt with air leaks between the tyre and the wheel, you’ll appreciate this: DB wheels don’t have the same issues. Some other finishes can wear down in the bead seat area, leading to leaks and poor tyre sealing. With DB, the wheel’s surface stays intact, so you’re not dealing with frustrating air leaks.
Another cool thing? DB adds zero extra weight to the wheel. Meanwhile, some finishes out there can add up to 1kg per wheel. That might not sound like a lot, but across a whole fleet, it adds up—and not in a good way!
So, if you’re looking for wheels that look great, perform better, and last longer without the hassle, Dura-Bright® wheels are definitely the way to go. They’re more than just a pretty face—they’re a smart, long-term investment for your fleet.
Why Fleets and OEMs Are Choosing Dura-Bright® Wheels Over Other Finish Options
Make Sure It’s An Alcoa® Wheel
Contact us at the Howmet Wheel system at 1800 955 191. You can also drop us an email at alcoawheels.sales@howmet.com or visit alcoawheels.com.au. Also, don’t forget to follow Alcoa on Facebook at alcoawheelsaustralia for all the latest updates
September 26, 2024
Rolling Forward Together: Borcat Trailers and Alcoa Wheels
When Borcat Trailers first hit the scene over 60 years ago, it was with a simple mission: build a trailer that’s truly “Built-to-Last.” Founders Angelo Borg and Paul Muscat, both truck drivers themselves, knew firsthand what it took to create something better than what was on the market. Their vision? Build trailers that were tougher, more reliable, and designed to go the distance.
Today, that mission is stronger than ever. Borcat Trailers has come a long way since those early days, expanding their range to include 5 and 6-axle dogs and leading the charge with A-Double trailers. Borcat has become a go-to name for fleets like Hanson, Metromix, and Boral. Their secret? Continuous innovation and a commitment to working with the best.
That’s where Alcoa Wheels comes in. When it comes to 10-stud wheels, Alcoa is the name everyone trusts. Borcat Trailers has used Alcoa Wheels as an OEM component for years, and the reason is simple: quality.
“Alcoa is the industry benchmark” “They back up what they sell, and that gives us—and our customers—complete confidence.”
Says Ian Sly a general manager at Borcat Trailers.
But Borcat isn’t standing still. Recently, they teamed up with Haulmark Trailers to become the sales and service agent for GINCOR in NSW, opening the door to live-floor trailers. Now, they can supply, fit, and service live-floor bodies for trucks as well as complete trailer assemblies, making sure they’re always one step ahead in meeting market needs.
And there’s more big news—Borcat is on the move! On October 1st, they’re relocating to a new facility at 54 Newton Rd, Wetherill Park. The new location offers plenty of space for trucks and trailers to move freely and a larger building more pertinent for an efficient production line. It’s all part of their plan to keep growing and improving, ensuring they’re ready for whatever the future holds.
With Alcoa Wheels by their side and exciting new developments on the horizon, Borcat Trailers isn’t just keeping up with the industry—they’re driving it forward. Keep an eye on them—they’re going places!
Make Sure It’s An Alcoa® Wheel
Contact us at the Howmet Wheel system at 1800 955 191. You can also drop us an email at alcoawheels.sales@howmet.com or visit alcoawheels.com.au. Also, don’t forget to follow Alcoa on Facebook at alcoawheelsaustralia for all the latest updates
September 19, 2024
The Environmental Benefits of Alcoa Dura-Bright Wheels for Australian Truck Fleet Owners
In today’s rapidly evolving trucking industry, sustainability is more than just a buzzword – it’s a responsibility. As environmental concerns grow, so too does the demand for eco-friendly solutions that not only reduce carbon footprints but also enhance operational efficiency. One such innovation is the Alcoa Dura-Bright wheel, a revolutionary product designed with patented technology to meet the rigorous demands of modern truck fleet operations. For Australian truck fleet owners, adopting Dura-Bright wheels offers a range of environmental benefits that align with both ecological and economic goals.
Water Conservation: A Key the Environmental Benefits of Alcoa Dura-Bright Wheels
Water scarcity is a pressing issue in many parts of Australia, making water conservation an essential consideration for all industries.
Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels are engineered to reduce water usage significantly. Traditional wheels require extensive cleaning, often involving copious amounts of water. In contrast, Dura-Bright wheels utilise a patented surface treatment that drastically cuts down on water needed for maintenance.
Efficient Cleaning Process: On average, cleaning and polishing traditional wheels takes about 25 minutes per wheel. With Dura-Bright wheels, this time is slashed to just 2 minutes. This remarkable reduction translates to thousands of litres of water saved over a fleet’s lifespan. For truck fleet owners, this means a substantial decrease in water usage, contributing to broader environmental conservation efforts.
Labour Savings: Enhancing Operational Efficiency
In addition to water savings, Dura-Bright wheels’ reduced cleaning time offers significant labour savings. Time is money, and every minute spent on wheel maintenance is a minute taken away from productive operations. Dura-Bright wheels save thousands of hours of labour annually by cutting down the cleaning time from 25 minutes to a mere 2 minutes per wheel.
Economic and Environmental Impact: This efficiency not only boosts the bottom line by reducing labour costs but also diminishes the environmental impact associated with labour-intensive cleaning processes. Fewer hours spent on maintenance mean lower energy consumption and reduced wear and tear on cleaning equipment, further underscoring the environmental benefits of adopting Dura-Bright wheels.
Reduced Use of Harsh Chemicals
Traditional wheel cleaning often involves harsh chemicals to remove the dirt and grime. While effective, these chemicals pose significant environmental hazards. They can contaminate water supplies, harm wildlife, and contribute to soil degradation. Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels, however, require only mild detergents for cleaning. See our Dura-Bright Wheel wash available Now.
Safer Cleaning Agents: The ability to use mild detergents reduces the reliance on environmentally damaging chemicals. This safeguards local ecosystems and ensures compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. For truck fleet owners, this means a cleaner, greener operation with fewer regulatory hurdles.
Long-Term Durability and Sustainability
The durability of Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels further enhances their environmental credentials. These wheels are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of Australian roads, resist corrosion, and maintain their appearance over the long term. This longevity reduces the need for frequent replacements, thereby minimising waste, and resource consumption.
Sustainable Investment: Investing in durable products like Dura-Bright wheels aligns with sustainability principles. It ensures that resources are utilized efficiently, and waste generation is minimised. For truck fleet owners, this means a lower total cost of ownership and a reduced environmental footprint.
For Australian truck fleet owners, the environmental benefits of Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels are clear. By significantly reducing water usage, cutting down on cleaning time, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals, and offering long-term durability, these wheels represent a smart investment in sustainability. Adopting Dura-Bright wheels is a proactive step towards greener fleet management, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship while also reaping economic rewards.
In an industry where efficiency and sustainability are increasingly intertwined, Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels provide a practical solution that addresses both concerns. By making the switch, truck fleet owners can drive their operations towards a more sustainable future, contributing positively to the environment while enhancing operational effectiveness.
Make Sure It’s An Alcoa® Wheel
Contact us at the Howmet Wheel system at 1800 955 191. You can also drop us an email at alcoawheels.sales@howmet.com or visit alcoawheels.com.au. Also, don’t forget to follow Alcoa on Facebook at alcoawheelsaustralia for all the latest updates
July 31, 2024
Boomerang Engineering and Alcoa Wheels: Ensuring Stability and Safety in Trailer Design
In the dynamic world of mining and transport industries, stability isn’t just a desirable trait – it’s an absolute necessity. Boomerang Engineering, a pioneering force in Australia’s mining and transport sectors, understands this fundamental requirement like no other. With their unwavering commitment to safety and innovation, they stand as a beacon of reliability in an industry fraught with risks.
Founded in the early 60s by Sam De Filippis and Pasco Travaglini, Boomerang Engineering has steadily risen to prominence, riding the waves of the mining boom in the 70s.
Today, with over 60 dedicated employees at their Belmont premises, they continue to set the benchmark for trailer design and manufacturing excellence.
At the heart of Boomerang Engineering’s success lies its ‘Can Do’ attitude and relentless pursuit of groundbreaking solutions. Their patented load-sharing heavy off-highway cable suspension system stands as a testament to their innovative spirit, offering unparalleled stability and safety in demanding environments.
The unsung heroes of mobility
Boomerang Engineering’s product lineup spans a diverse range of equipment tailored to meet the industry’s exacting needs. From side and end tippers to low loaders and bespoke mining equipment, their offerings epitomise quality, strength, and durability.
Central to the performance of Boomerang Engineering’s trailers are the wheels – the unsung heroes of mobility. While often relegated to the realm of aesthetics, the choice of wheels plays a pivotal role in determining a trailer’s performance, efficiency, and safety. And when it comes to wheels, there’s one name that stands head and shoulders above the rest – Alcoa Wheels. Daniel Hoschke, sales & technical support from Boomerang Engineering, reinforce saying:
“They are simply the best wheels on the market, constantly innovating and leading the market as well as second to none service”
Boomerang Engineering’s enduring partnership with Alcoa Wheels is a testament to their commitment to excellence. With Alcoa Wheels, they have found a reliable ally renowned for innovation and unparalleled service. With approximately 500 pieces of trailing equipment manufactured each year, Boomerang Engineering relies on Alcoa Wheels to deliver performance, durability, and peace of mind.
In the grand symphony of trailer design, where every component plays a crucial role, Alcoa Wheels take center stage. As the literal foundation of mobility, they bear the weight of responsibility with unwavering reliability, ensuring smooth rides and safe stops when it matters most. Read More
So, if you’re in the mining and transport industries and value stability and safety above all else, look no further than Boomerang Engineering and Alcoa Wheels. Together, they epitomise excellence, setting the standard for stability and safety in trailer design.
Make Sure It’s An Alcoa® Wheel
Contact us at the Howmet Wheel system at 1800 955 191. You can also drop us an email at alcoawheels.sales@howmet.com or visit alcoawheels.com.au. Also, don’t forget to follow Alcoa on Facebook at alcoawheelsaustralia for all the latest updates
July 22, 2024
Riding the Wave of Innovation: The Rise of Sustainable Semi-Trailers in 2024
The trajectory of the global semi-trailer market in 2024 is poised for substantial growth, as indicated by the recent report Robust Growth in 2024. This positive trend is anticipated to persist until 2032. Central to this evolution are two pivotal themes: the increasing emphasis on environmental sustainability and integrating advanced technologies to enhance product quality and efficiency.
At the forefront of this transformative journey stands Bruce Rock Engineering, a prominent player in the road transport equipment industry since 1980, founded by Mike and Gay Verhoogt. They specialise in delivering top-notch trailer solutions across various sectors, such as agriculture, mining, construction, and logistics, while maintaining an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Bruce Rock’s Innovative Solutions
A steadfast dedication to sustainability and innovation is central to Bruce Rock Engineering’s ethos. The company boosts productivity, payload capacity, fuel efficiency, and reduces ecological footprint with lighter wheel solutions. Keenan Verhoogt, Director at Bruce Rock Engineering, highlights their choice of Alcoa Wheels for their innovative design, quality, and low weight.
Bruce Rock Engineering’s newest Forrestfield facility impresses with its 18,000 square-metres set up on a 40,000-square-metre site, housing two separate buildings. One building is dedicated to steel processing and houses sister company Transbeam Industries. This building features CNC higher-plasma laser piping, press brakes, and all the essential metal processing elements required for their in-house transport manufacturing.
The other building section focuses on chassis fabrication, including rail beam machines, chassis and dolly fabrication, robotic welding of medium-sized components, and a blast and paint facility.
The second building on the site divides into two sections for BRE’s repair, maintenance, and refurbishing services. It features 45-meter drive-through bays, three full-length pits with hydraulic platforms, and a wash bay for final assembly.
In a tech-driven landscape where vehicles are getting heavier, lightweight and durable wheels are crucial. Ross Simmons, managing director of Howmet Wheel Systems Australia (the distributor of Alcoa® Wheels), said:
“Helping operators cut down on fuel use and carbon emissions is one of our biggest priorities, and we invest heavily in leading in the latest innovations to engineer lighter wheels”.
A Shared Vision of Excellence and Innovation
With over four decades of expertise, Bruce Rock Engineering aims beyond leadership in the Australian road transport sector. Driven by excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement, the company has forged strategic partnerships with high-caliber suppliers, including Alcoa Wheels.
This alliance enables Bruce Rock Engineering to deliver innovative, high-quality, sustainable road transport solutions.
A Revolution in Motion
The semi-trailer market isn’t just growing; it’s undergoing a revolution, with sustainability leading the way. Industry leaders Bruce Rock Engineering and Alcoa Wheels Australia are driving a brighter, lighter, and more sustainable future.
Entering this new era, semi-trailers are poised for incredible success! Get ready for an amazing journey with sustainable semi-trailers—the opportunities are endless!
Riding the Wave of Innovation: The Rise of Sustainable Semi-Trailers in 2024
Make Sure It’s An Alcoa® Wheel
To spec your wheels, call 1800 955 191 to talk with our experts or fill out a contact form.
June 17, 2024
How can we survive for more than 70 years in the transport industry? Alcoa Wheels and Holmwood Highgate’s Testament to Reliability and Innovation
Surviving more than seventy years in the transport business is no easy feat. It takes a mix of toughness, smarts, and a strong dedication to doing things right. With the crazy challenges the threw at businesses worldwide, companies had to shake things up, adapt, and figure out new ways to do stuff. But among those that not only kept going but actually did better, Alcoa Wheels and Holmwood Highgate really shine as examples of reliability and fresh ideas.
One big reason they’ve stayed successful is that they listen hard to what customers want, teamed up with good partners, and keep coming up with new ideas. Even when things get tough, Alcoa Wheels and Holmwood Highgate stay ahead of the game, setting high standards and showing what’s possible.
Great things evolve from humble beginnings
The story of these companies is all about bouncing back, especially in the rough and tumble world of transportation. Since the 1950s, Holmwood Highgate has been all about changing how we move liquids in bulk.
Starting small with fuel, they’ve now got tankers for all sorts of markets, including military and aviation use. Ian Williamson, who works in sales at Holmwood Highgate, says,
“Our steadfast dedication to quality and customer satisfaction has resulted in a fleet of Holmwood tankers still in operation across the globe, a testament to their durability and longevity”
Ian Williamson, Holmwood Highgate
You can see Holmwood Highgate’s drive to keep things fresh in how they’ve expanded into other kinds of tankers, like for dry goods and LPG. Plus, they’ve got this huge laser cutter that makes production faster and more precise—proof they’re all about being the best.
Alcoa Wheels began its journey in 1948 by revolutionizing the industry with aluminium wheels. But their innovation didn’t stop there. Today, they continue to advance, crafting lightweight wheels for trucks, trailers, and buses that enhance fuel efficiency and overall performance. Their commitment to improvement has resulted in numerous breakthroughs, including the development of the Dura-Bright® Surface Treatment.
Partnering with Excellence: Building Strong Collaborations
A big part of what’s kept both Alcoa Wheels and Holmwood Highgate going strong is their knack for making great partnerships. Teaming up with top brands like Alcoa has been key to their success. Ian Williamson says,
“I’ve always gone with Alcoa wheels because they’re top-notch, reliable, and leaders in the field.”
Ian Williamson, Holmwood Highgate
Looking back on more than seventy years of hard work, we can see the values that kept Alcoa Wheels and Holmwood Highgate going strong. In a business where things can change fast, they’re like anchors, always dependable and full of new ideas. Their story shows us the power of bouncing back, being flexible, and never settling for anything less than excellence.
In a changing world, Alcoa Wheels and Holmwood Highgate’s story inspires us: dream, invent, aim high amidst adversity. They push forward, break new ground, showing us how to strive for greatness despite any challenges that arise
To spec your wheels, ring
1800 955 191 to talk with our wheel experts, or fill out a contact form and we will reach out to you to answer your questions and discuss your specifications.
April 22, 2024
Focus on quality has aligned Sloanebuilt and Alcoa Wheels for years
In the world of heavy vehicle manufacturing, where reliability, durability, and safety are non-negotiable, the importance of quality components cannot be overstated. Among these crucial components, wheels stand out as the foundation upon which the entire vehicle rests. Recognizing this, industry leaders like Sloanebuilt and Alcoa Wheels have forged a partnership rooted in a shared commitment to excellence.
Driving Excellence: The Enduring Partnership Between Sloanebuilt and Alcoa Wheels
At the heart of this partnership lies a dedication to quality that has endured for years. Sloanebuilt, a reputable name in heavy vehicle manufacturing, understands that every aspect of a vehicle must meet the highest standards to ensure performance, safety, and customer satisfaction. Alcoa Wheels, renowned for its superior wheel solutions, shares this ethos wholeheartedly. Together, they exemplify how a focus on quality can drive success and foster enduring relationships built on trust.
Sloanebuilt’s journey from its humble beginnings to its current status as a powerhouse in the tipper market is a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.
Sloanebuilt, renowned for premium trailer bodies, blends community service, a top-notch facility, and longevity, ensuring superior performance. Hannah Elborough, Sloanebuilt’s executive marketing representative, said:
“Our market differentiation results from our quality consciousness, passion to make a difference and responsiveness to the needs of our local market, customers, and suppliers. This adaptability and customer-centric approach have been instrumental in our growth and sustainability.”
At its core success lies partnership with Alcoa® Wheels, a trusted ally for global heavy vehicle manufacturers.
Sloanebuilt’s Trailblazing Production and Enduring Partnership with Alcoa® Wheels
Sloanebuilt builds approximately 350 trailers per year. In 2023 specifically, they had a productive year, constructing a total of 392 trailers, including rigid bodies and trailers. They hold the majority of the market share in the tipper segment, showcasing their expertise in this area.
At the heart of Sloanebuilt’s success lies its dedication to excellence in its operations. From its robust manufacturing processes to its customer-centric approach, Sloanebuilt strives to exceed expectations. Central to this commitment is its longstanding partnership with Alcoa® Wheels.
The alignment of Sloanebuilt and Alcoa Wheels goes beyond mere business transactions; it is a testament to a shared vision for the future of heavy vehicle manufacturing. Alcoa Wheels prioritizes quality, ensuring Sloanebuilt and customers rely on durable, long-lasting wheels for peace of mind.
Alcoa® Wheels, a global leader renowned for its innovative products and exceptional customer support, perfectly complements Sloanebuilt’s ethos.
“The partnership between Sloanebuilt and Alcoa® Wheels is not just about products; it’s about shared values and a mutual commitment to excellence”,
Remarked Hannah Elborough.
Sloanebuilt and Alcoa Wheels embody integrity and excellence in a fast-paced world where individuals cut corners for short-term gains. It reminds us that quality cannot be compromised when ensuring safety and performance on the road.
As we envision heavy vehicle manufacturing’s future, let’s recall Sloanebuilt and Alcoa Wheels’ guiding lessons. Prioritize quality above all; it’s not just our responsibility to customers but a commitment to road safety.
Future-Proofing Wheels: How Dura-Bright Leads the Way in 2024
As your trucks travel the challenging terrain of Australia’s highways and regional roads, they deal with a constant onslaught of corrosive elements. Whether it’s the harsh road conditions or the acidic residues from truck washes, these elements always risk your fleet’s wheels.
Enter Dura-Bright® Surface Treatment—a game-changing solution engineered by the visionaries at Alcoa® Wheels. Unlike conventional coatings, Dura-Bright® seamlessly bonds with the aluminium substrate, forming a molecular union that transcends the limitations of traditional methods. This integration provides unparalleled protection, preserving the wheel’s shine and integrity with minimal maintenance. This means less time and money spent on cleaning products, putting your truck back on the road faster.
Dura-Bright® Surface Treatment, integrated into the wheel, ensures durability and resilience despite tough road conditions. Its molecular bond thwarts corrosion, safeguarding aesthetics and performance alike.
Alcoa Wheel Dura-Bright® provide fleets a reliable solution to maintain wheel quality and performance.
Beyond Coatings: The Science Behind Dura-Bright®
Dura-Bright® Surface Treatment is a breakthrough in wheel protection. It boasts low surface tension that repels water, dirt, and chemicals. This innovative technology creates a barrier aroundthe wheel, preventing corrosion and maintaining a lustrous appearance regardless of road conditions.
Water droplet tests demonstrate Dura-Bright® effectiveness. Droplets roll off quickly, leaving no residue behind—a stark contrast to painted steel wheels, where water tends to puddle and dirt clings.
Watch to find more:
Streamlined Maintenance: Cleaning Made Simple
Thanks to its penetrative production process, Dura-Bright® ensures wheels retain their shine even after countless washes. Cleaning is a breeze with mild soap and water, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals and reducing maintenance costs and downtime. See our cleaning guide
How to Specify Dura-Bright® Surface Treatment
Product specification begins with answering basic questions, such as the number of bolt holes, bolt circle diameter, hub bore, wheel sizes, and more. After those questions are answered, additional options – like the Dura-Bright® Surface Treatment – can be chosen. When considering the purchase of a dura bright wheel, it is imperative to verify that the part number concludes with ‘DB’. This suffix is crucial, as it signifies the Dura Bright variant of the wheel. In the specifications guide, ‘DB’ is the abbreviation for Dura Bright, which distinguishes it from other wheel options. Therefore, confirming the presence of ‘DB’ at the end of the part number is paramount to ensure you acquire the desired Dura Bright wheel.
Explore how Alcoa® Dura-Bright® Wheels redefine truck durability and aesthetics, keeping your trucks shining and on the road effortlessly. Contact us at the Howmet Wheel system at 1800 955 191. You can also email us at alcoawheels.sales@howmet.com or visit alcoawheels.com.au. Also, don’t forget to follow Alcoa on Facebook at alcoawheelsaustralia for all the latest updates.
April 4, 2024
ALUMINUM WHEELS STILL PREVAIL OVER STEEL
As we step into the new 2024, the enduring debate in the truck wheel industry persists—aluminium or steel wheels? This perennial topic sparks in-depth discussions among experts, exploring the nuances between these two metals and delving into their advantages, disadvantages, and manufacturing processes. As pioneers in aluminium wheel innovation, we confidently assert our preference for forged aluminium wheels, and here’s a comprehensive breakdown of why aluminium wheels prevail over steel. .
The Simple Solution: Lighter weight
Choosing lighter-weight forged aluminium wheels is the ultimate solution for enhancing overall fuel efficiency and, more crucially, reducing maintenance costs. Contrary to misconceptions, forged aluminium wheels are not akin to aluminium cans recycled through shredding. Their mechanical properties endow them with high yield strength and significant elongation, ensuring durability. As the industry emphasises low operating costs, the urgency for fleets to adopt solutions contributing to improved freight efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and increased productivity has never been greater. Beyond being lighter than steel, forged aluminium wheels also boast superior strength and durability, increasing freight capacity and generating maintenance savings for heightened productivity and ultimately lower lifetime operating costs.
A forged Wheel from Alcoa Wheels withstands a load of 71.200 kg before deforming, while the rim of the steel wheel already deforms at 13,600 kg.
Fuel Efficiency and Weight Savings
When spec’ing wheels on new equipment, considering overall lifetime operating costs is paramount. Forged aluminium wheels facilitate quick and continuous payback through fuel savings and enhanced freight productivity, coupled with maintenance savings. Innovative technologies from wheel manufacturers contribute to increased weight loss, such as the significant reduction in wheel weight offered by forged aluminium wheels compared to their steel counterparts. See the last successfully tested fuel saving compared Aluminium wheel vs steel.
It’s a well-known fact that lighter trucks can legally carry more cargo. The latest Alcoa ULT36 Ultra One wheel, measuring 22.5″ x 8.25″ with a hub pilot and 285.75mm bolt circle, weighs only 16kg. This significant weight reduction enhances fuel efficiency. Forged aluminum wheels not only offer environmental benefits but also enable larger payloads, reducing the need for extra trips. Their infinite recyclability ensures they are never left in landfills.
Maintenance Advantages
Maintenance is crucial for fleet managers, especially concerning refurbishing, curbing damage, and tyre and brake life. Unlike steel wheels, aluminium wheels do not necessitate continuous refurbishing activities like rust removal, repainting, or touch-ups. Aluminium wheels, being unpainted, eliminate the need for spray paint and touch-ups. In harsh environments, where rust is a common issue for steel wheels, aluminium wheels offer a maintenance advantage by not requiring yearly tyre dismounting, painting, and remounting.
Forged aluminium wheel manufacturers often provide additional options for lowering operating and maintenance costs, including proprietary surface treatments integral to production. Alcoa DuraBright – advanced surface treatment ensures durability, preventing cracks, chips, or corrosion. Specially treated aluminium wheels do not require polishing. They are easy to clean with a simple soap and water scrub, contributing to lower maintenance costs and a longer-lasting, newer vehicle appearance.
The strength of forged aluminium wheels proves reliable even in the harshest environments, improving maintenance and extending equipment life. Additional surface treatments, such as those reducing rim flange wear, are advantageous for specific applications, such as heavy haul and shifting load scenarios.
Improved heat dissipation is another benefit, contributing to longer tyre and brake life. Aluminium’s superior heat dissipation, compared to steel, is particularly crucial in frequent stops and starts, as seen in refuse trucks. Aluminium wheels dissipate heat faster, preventing excessive wear on tires and brakes.
In instances of heat-related incidents, aluminium wheel manufacturers often incorporate heat indicator sensors on wheels to alert when excessive heat has passed through, ensuring timely maintenance.
Enhanced Image and a Smoother Ride
Forged aluminium wheels not only bring pride to fleets and operators but also offer a smoother ride. Being 100% CNC machined eliminates runout and vibrations, enhancing the overall comfort of the trip.
When making wheel choices, prioritizing value is critical. Forged aluminium wheels provide lifetime advantages over steel wheels. While steel wheels may be cheaper at purchase, their increasing maintenance requirements over time should be considered. The decision ultimately boils down to short-term versus long-term planning, navigating available choices to ensure value over the equipment’s lifespan.
For more information about truck and trailer wheels, contact Howmet Wheel Systems at 1800 955 191, email alcoawheels.sales@howmet.com, or visit alcoawheels.com.au. Stay updated by following Alcoa on: alcoawheelsaustralia
January 17, 2024
Next-Gen of the lightest aluminium truck wheel
Alcoa® Wheels, the global leader in aluminum wheel innovation, introduces two new products featuring revolutionary technology that reaffirms its position as the lightest aluminium truck wheel manufacturer in the industry the NEW Alcoa® ULT36x, 22.5” x 8.25” wheel, and Alcoa® ULA18x 22.5″ x 8.25″ Wheel. This revolutionary development holds immense promise for improved efficiency and sustainability in the trucking sector.
Enhanced efficiency with the lightest aluminium truck wheel
A standout achievement of the Alcoa ULT36x wheel lies in its lightweight design, which employs advanced materials and an innovative hand-hole-free structure. These wheels offer a significant reduction in weight without compromising performance. This breakthrough translates into higher efficiency and cost savings for trucking companies, as the increased payload capacity allows for optimized operations, reduced fuel consumption, and decreased carbon emissions.
The Alcoa® ULT36x wheel is 1.6 kg lighter than its predecessor, weighing just 16.3 kg. It is equipped with proprietary Magna Force® alloy, 17% stronger than the industry standard and has played a critical role in developing the ULT36x. Commercial fleet operators can achieve maximum efficiency and profitability with the ULT36x wheel, even in tough conditions.
Some of the highlights of the new wheel include:
Savings of up to 2L of fuel per 1,000 km when converting from steel to aluminium on all positions
Exceptional strength with a 3,355kg. load rating
Alcoa® advanced finishes LvL One® and Mirror Polish
Exclusive Alcoa® Dura-Bright® and Dura-Black™ surface treatments
Patent-pending wheel design – No hand holes, impact tested and designed for strength
Maintenance friendly valve system: two 25mm valve access holes for dual mounting, and dual inflation
Works with ATIS and Halo systems
brings both inner and outer dual valve into wheel well for easy access
Innovation is the key
Innovation remains a driving force within the trucking industry, as demonstrated by the introduction of the Alcoa ULT36x wheel. Technological advancements play a pivotal role in improving safety and efficiency. By embracing these innovations, the industry exemplifies its commitment to continuous improvement.
The Alcoa ULT36x wheel also incorporates the company’s vHub™ Bore Technology, which reduces hub-to-wheel contact area by up to 64% compared to other aluminum wheels, minimizing surface area for corrosion to form.
Advance Surface treatment
ULT36x will be available with Alcoa Dura-Bright® Wheels surface treatment, which acts like a force field around your wheels that repels dirt. So, when it’s time to clean, a simple soap and water wash gets you back on the road. No more polishing. Less time washing, more time driving.
Alcoa Dura-Bright® Wheels are manufactured using proprietary technology and production processes specifically tailored to achieve superior aesthetics, easy maintenance, and durability. Alcoa Dura-Bright® surface treatment penetrates the aluminium, forming a molecular bond that becomes part of the wheel itself. That means it will not crack, peel, or corrode like coated wheels, looking newer for longer.
These advancements showcased in the trucking industry signify a brighter and more prosperous future. The Alcoa ULT36x wheel marks a significant milestone in efficiency, sustainability, and safety. As the industry embraces these innovations, we can expect continued progress and collaboration in the sector.
For more information about the world’s lightest and strongest heavy-duty truck wheels, contact Howmet Wheel Systems at 1800 955 191, email alcoawheels.sales@howmet.com, or visit alcoawheels.com.au. Stay updated by following Alcoa on: alcoawheelsaustralia
