Why Is the Mass of a Wheel Concentrated on the Rim?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on why the mass of a wheel is concentrated on the rim, primarily to support the tire and enhance structural integrity. While increasing the moment of inertia (MoI) is a consequence of this design, it also requires more power for acceleration, which can be a drawback. Participants highlight that a higher MoI can lead to increased unsprung mass, negatively affecting vehicle performance. Therefore, the consensus suggests that minimizing wheel weight and MoI is generally preferable for better efficiency. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for optimizing wheel design in vehicles.
saravananrame
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A small confusion ! Why is most of the mass of the wheel concentrated on the rim ? I know that it is to increase the moment of inertia , but what is the practical use of doing so ?
Thanks in advance !
 
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saravananrame said:
A small confusion ! Why is most of the mass of the wheel concentrated on the rim ? I know that it is to increase the moment of inertia , but what is the practical use of doing so ?
Thanks in advance !

I'm afraid you'll have to be a little more specific here. What type of wheel are we talking about?
 
A normal vehicle ( car , bike ) wheel where mass is mostly concentrated on the outer edge ( outer rim ) . I guess the word rim suits here . I mean the outer curved circular thingy !
 
saravananrame said:
A small confusion ! Why is most of the mass of the wheel concentrated on the rim

To support the tire. Try mounting a bicycle tire on spokes..impossible.

I know that it is to increase the moment of inertia

No. that is an unwanted consequence. A high MoI means greater power is required for acceleration.

overall wheel weight has other negative consequences as it increases un-sprung mass.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unsprung_mass

So generally you want to minimize the wheels weight and MoI.
 

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