Diamond Cut or as some people say Diamond Polishing (alloy wheels polished using a diamond tipped lathe!) is growing in popularity on average type every day vehicles as well as luxury & high-performance cars, but still isn’t as common a feature as standard (painted finish) alloy wheels which are now extremely popular and are being fitted as standard on most vehicles by auto manufacturers these days.
What Is A Diamond Cut in Alloy wheels?
The method is first painted in the selected colour and then baked in an oven.
Once dry the wheel is mounted on a CNC (computer numerical controlled) lathe so that the face of the wheel can be machined to achieve the metallic cutting pattern. The wheels are then sprayed with an Acrylic Lacquer to finish the look.
Although lacquered the cutting finish can be susceptible to damage.
If water gets under the lacquer it stains the bare metal a milky colour – hard to get to without the lacquer being completely stripped.
Wheels cannot be continuously re-cut as each time they’re machined, some of the metal is removed and eventually, this would compromise the structural integrity of the wheel.
Diamond Cut Alloy Wheel Repair
This method offer a particular challenge for repairers – unless they have a Diamond Cutting CNC Alloy Wheel Lathe.
Computer-controlled, the lathe is able to map the alloy wheel’s profile digitally and shave a very thin layer of alloy from the surface of an alloy wheel, returning them to their former glory.
Once the process is complete the surface is sealed in a high-performance lacquer to protect the exposed alloy.
Which Manufacturers Use Diamond Cut Alloys?
Most top end manufacturers like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW include diamond cut alloys on their vehicles as standard. This is because these brands are perceived to be “prestige” brands.
Having diamond cut alloys on the new car, not only adds value but it gives it the WOW factor when showcasing your new car to friends and family.
Check our Diamond cut service for more information and don’t hesitate to contact our professional team.