QA1 carbon fiber driveshaft technology wins award for composites excellence

QA1 won the Materials and Process Innovation Award from the American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA) during the 2015 Composites and Advanced Materials Expo (CAMX) in Dallas, TX. CAMX, produced by ACMA and the Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering (SAMPE), is the premier conference for composite material products, solutions, networking, business and advanced industry thinking.

During CAMX, ACMA presents its Awards for Composites Excellence (ACE) to companies who implement innovation in three categories: composites design, manufacturing or market growth. QA1 won in the manufacturing category for its nanosilica infused resin for use in performance automotive carbon fiber driveshafts. They partnered with 3M to develop this exclusive Matrix Resin that has improved compressive strength, fracture toughness and reduced water absorption. These enhancements allow for redesign of composite structures, eliminating weight while improving strength and stiffness.

“3M and QA1 have worked hard to revolutionize the racing industry,” says Jeff Lonergan, 3M Advanced Composites Global Business Manager. “By working closely with QA1 engineers, 3M was able to provide new materials, processes, and recommendations to ensure success. The result of two years of testing and scale up have led to this industry recognized award.”

QA1 manufactures carbon fiber driveshafts for drag racing, street performance and dirt late model racing. They are designed and manufactured in-house at QA1’s Lakeville, MN facility using the latest filament-winding equipment. QA1’s carbon fiber driveshafts are lighter, stiffer and stronger than aluminum, steel and other carbon fiber driveshafts, all while providing dramatic safety benefits.

“We build the best performing and most advanced driveshafts in the industry,” says Travis Gorsuch, Director of Advanced Materials at QA1. “They have proven themselves on the track time and time again winning several championships across the country and it’s great to have them recognized by the composites industry as well.”