Abstract: Vehicle wheels and methods of making vehicle wheels are provided. A vehicle wheel comprises a generally annular first region, a second region, and a flange extension. The first region comprises an inner surface and an outer surface comprising a tire bead seat. The second region extends radially inwardly from the first region. The second region is configured to mount to a vehicle axle. The flange extension extends from the first region in a direction away from the second region. The flange extension comprises a first extension end integral with the first region, a second extension end, and an elongate portion intermediate the first extension end and the second extension end. The elongate portion comprising a first portion with a thickness less than a thickness of the second extension end.

Abstract: A method for surface coating products, especially vehicle wheels, to improve the durability of their aesthetics and structural integrity via increased resistance to impact, abrasion, soil (e.g., brake dust), corrosion and fatigue stresses. The method comprises applying a uniform clear coating layer to the surface of the substrate, and then applying a preceramic resin film to the coated substrate, where the preceramic resin film is uniformly applied and cured onto the coated substrate so as to result in a ceramic shell of about 3 microns to about 12 microns in thickness over the coated substrate.

Abstract: A continuous process for forming aluminum-lithium alloys is disclosed which comprises continuously monitoring the ingot casting rate and continuously adding a measured and controlled amount of molten lithium beneath the surface of a molten aluminum stream as it flows toward an ingot casting station. The amount of molten lithium to be added is based on the ingot casting rate, the ingot size and the lithium content of the alloy being cast.