RAYS TE37: The Iconic Wheels and Their Manufacturing Process
When it comes to wheels, one name stands out above the rest – RAYS TE37. These wheels have become legendary in the car community, known for their timeless design that complements a wide range of vehicles, from Fords to Ferraris. If you’ve ever wondered how these iconic wheels are made, you’re in luck. RAYS has released a video showcasing their full manufacturing process, providing a fascinating insight into the creation of these legendary wheels.
The manufacturing process of each TE37 wheel begins with a solid aluminum cylinder, also known as a billet. RAYS uses a proprietary Aluminum 6061 alloy specifically formulated for its strength. The billet is then heated to make it more workable for the forging process.
The forging process consists of three steps. First, a preliminary forging die stamps the billet into a rough shape of the finished wheel. Then, a secondary forging die refines the shape of the spokes, hollowing them out in the process. Finally, the hollowed-out channels are shaped into a U-profile to achieve the desired strength and rigidity while keeping the weight light.
To achieve the complex flared shape associated with automotive wheels, the wheel undergoes another heating process. A forming rotor is used to take the outer profiles of the cylinder from a flat profile to the desired shape. Afterward, the wheel undergoes a heat-treating process involving quenching and tempering to optimize its tensile strength, proof stress, and elongation.
The next step in the manufacturing process is mounting processing. This involves performing various CNC operations to achieve an even surface finish, balance the wheel, and add the necessary mounting/valve stem holes. These seemingly simple operations require extreme precision due to the tight tolerances involved. Once this is completed, any remaining burrs from the machining process are removed. This not only improves the appearance of the wheel but also enhances the adhesion of paint and corrosion-resistant coatings.
After the manufacturing process, each wheel undergoes a radial load fatigue test to assess its durability over numerous rotations. Only when the wheel meets RAYS’ stringent standards does it proceed to the final surface finishing stage. The wheel is polished, shot-blasted, degreased, and powder-coated. It is then diamond-cut and painted for the ultimate surface finish. Automated engravers and painting machines add the necessary details to the finished product. A final human inspection and strength testing ensure that the wheels are of the highest quality before they are shipped out to customers.
The RAYS TE37 wheels are not just a product of meticulous manufacturing; they are a testament to the commitment to excellence and quality that RAYS upholds. These wheels have become a symbol of performance and style, sought after by car enthusiasts worldwide. The combination of their timeless design and the rigorous manufacturing process ensures that each TE37 wheel is a masterpiece in its own right.
In conclusion, the RAYS TE37 wheels have earned their legendary status in the car community for good reason. The manufacturing process, from the initial billet to the final surface finishing, showcases the dedication and precision that goes into creating these iconic wheels. Whether you’re a Ford or Ferrari owner, the RAYS TE37 wheels are a perfect choice for enhancing both the performance and aesthetics of your vehicle.