Originally Posted by
masi61
well the one you referenced says it is "AL-7075" - perhaps those members familiar with metallurgy can comment on how durable this aluminum alloy is. Absolute black chainrings are beautiful but they are CNC milled and I had a friend who wore one out in one year and even broke off one tooth. Cold forged rings I've heard are more durable. Praxis Works makes theirs cold forged and I've heard good things about their durability. You might check and see if Praxis Works makes a 54 tooth in 1x configuration (I sort of doubt it but it would not hurt to check).
I know a bit about metals. 7075 is actually stronger than some mild steels. It's base is alum (of course) and zinc is the main additive. Strong stuff. BUT, you can have great material. It's the end-finish process that matters most.