Originally Posted by Bob Dopolina

Corrosion resistance? I live on an island surrounded by sea water. I've never had to deal with this problem.

The key phase I see is DEFORMATION. If the holes in the flange are drilled properly there should already be a perfect seat for the spoke. Why do I want my holes to deform any more than they already do with 7000series alloys?

The real issue with regards to deformation is when the flanges pull on the bearing bore and push it beyond tolerance. This means lateral play in the bearings once tension has been reached.

I have built several wheels using a popular brand of hubs and had this issue develop in the truing stand and about 100 kgf. Why? Cheaper alloys. Even if play doesn't develop bearing life will be greatly reduced.