Investigation into the multi-stage ring rolling of aluminium bicycle wheel rims

Abstract A method of producing bicycle wheel rims by expanding small diameter ring blanks in a ring rolling mill offers potential advantages over existing methods of rim production, which involve the circling and jointing of lengths of extruded section. The paper describes feasibility studies of the ring rolling method, the work having been sponsored by a cycle manufacturer. The required rim profile could not be formed in one rolling stage, from a simple form of ring blank, and a multi-stage rolling process was developed. The design of the forming rolls is described and problems encountered in achieving sound products of the required accuracy are discussed.