On 5 Aug 2006 06:11:33 -0700, "Kenny" <
[email protected]> wrote:
>I do feel though that the Alpina spokes
>were more uniform in the shape of the bend in the spoke than DT's, but
>DT's seemed to be a little more shinier.
Dear Kenny,
The Alpina spokes are made of C40 high carbon steel and are probably
plated and would hold a magnet.
The DT spokes are made of 18/8 (chromium%/nickel%) stainless steel.
They ignore a magnet, and the 18% chromium keeps them nice and shiny:
"High oxidation resistance in air at ambient temperature is normally
achieved with additions of a minimum of 13% (by weight) chromium, and
up to 26% is used for harsh environments. The chromium forms a
passivation layer of chromium(III) oxide (Cr2O3) when exposed to
oxygen. The layer is too thin to be visible, meaning the metal stays
shiny. It is, however, impervious to water and air, protecting the
metal beneath. Also, when the surface is scratched this layer quickly
reforms. This phenomenon is called passivation by materials
scientists, and is seen in other metals, such as aluminium."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stainless_steel
Cheers,
Carl Fogel