Custom Driveshaft Composites

APEX Carbon Composite Driveshafts

At APEX Space & Defense Systems, we design and manufacture high-performance composite driveshafts. Our driveshafts are made from premium wound composite materials with advanced properties and a superior strength-to-weight ratio. They are lightweight, strong, and safer at high speeds than traditional metal shafts. Our composite driveshafts are designed for equipment in the most extreme environments, including military vehicles like Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTV), Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) class of hovercrafts used by the Navy, and more.

Patented Composite Driveshaft Designs for Superior Performance

Every driveshaft we produce is crafted using precision design and manufacturing techniques. Our patented technologies produce driveshafts with superior strength and durability for demanding defense and industrial applications. The engineers at APEX use industry-leading equipment and materials to ensure that every driveshaft we produce meets the most strict performance requirements. Our patented composite driveshafts with metal bonded couplings offer a range of advantages over traditional metallic driveshafts, including:

Better strength-to-weight ratio
Corrosion resistance
Reduced vibration & potential for warping
Less risk of overheating & thermal expansion

Proven Performance

APEX conducted a test to confirm that carbon fiber driveshafts meet the demanding requirements of military vehicles, in addition to heavy vehicles and racing cars. We tested a carbon drive shaft to 3,500 ft–lbs clockwise (CW), held for 15 seconds and then cycled it at 2 Hz between +3,000 ft–lbs CW and 1,500 ft-lbs counterclockwise (CCW). The drive shaft was then proof tested at 3,500 ft-lbs for 15 seconds without failure.

In a recent Design Qualification Test, APEX torque tested a carbon fiber driveshaft to its failure at 5,980 ft-lbs. This is well above the yield strength (2,260 ft-lbs) of the aluminum 1350 U-Joint and demonstrates that an APEX carbon fiber driveshaft and our carbon/metal bonds are the strongest components in the driveshaft system.

APEX Driveshaft Performance Data

Applications for Composite Driveshafts

We produce custom driveshafts for a range of high-performance equipment and vehicles. Because our shafts are not susceptible to corrosion, they are a dependable solution for marine vessels, vehicles, and other equipment in high-stress saltwater environments. While focused on military and marine sectors, we have manufactured driveshafts used in a wide range of high-stress applications, including:

Elite racing vehicles
Marine vessels
Defense ground vehicles
Industrial machinery
And more

Why Choose APEX Composite Engineering Solutions for the Most Demanding Sectors?

APEX is a trusted leader in composite engineering solutions. Our team of engineers develops custom components for the most challenging applications in aerospace and defense applications. From initial design to full production, we are dedicated to providing our customers with superior-quality solutions and personalized service. When you partner with APEX for your custom driveshafts and other composite component needs, you can count on:

Precision engineering expertise
Extensive industry experience
Comprehensive & innovative design solutions
ISO-certified manufacturing quality standards
A proven record of success