wheelmaking

Wheelmaking is the craft of constructing wheels for vehicles and machinery, including carts, wagons, bicycles, and automobiles. Traditionally performed by wheelwrights, the practice covers wooden, metal, and composite wheels and ranges from hand tool work to large-scale production.

Origins date to ancient civilizations, with early wooden wheels evolving into spoked designs, iron rims, and robust hubs. Wooden wheels used mortise-and-tenon joints and steam-bent rims; metal wheels introduced new materials and processes. In modern times wheelmaking spans automotive, bicycle, and industrial wheels made from steel, aluminum, alloys, or composites.

A typical wheel comprises a hub, a rim or rim shell, and spokes. In bicycles, nipples secure spokes to the rim, and the wheel is trued and tensioned for roundness and balance. Automotive wheels may be cast or forged rims with bearings and brake interfaces. Wooden wheels use a hub, spokes, and a wooden rim, often with an iron or steel tire for wear protection.

Today wheelmaking remains a skilled trade in historical crafts as well as a central manufacturing process in the vehicle industry. The term wheelwright denotes the traditional craftsman; in industry, wheel production is coordinated with axles, tires, brakes, and suspension to meet safety and performance requirements.