Fortium™ SMC + QISO® – Better Together
Fortium™ SMC with QISO® – High-Performance, Lightweight Solutions for Complex Geometries
At IDI Composites International, we combine our advanced Fortium™ SMC with A&P Technology's QISO® fabric to create a superior solution for high-stress applications. This chemically matched prepreg enables a reduction in SMC usage while increasing strength and reducing mass, cost, and waste. By strategically layering 0°, +/-60° QISO with Fortium™ SMC, we optimize performance and efficiency in complex molding processes.
Our Fortium™ SMC is a discontinuous fiber-reinforced composite that provides proven resilience against UV radiation and chemicals. QISO® is a 0°, +/-60° fabric that enhances strength, impact resistance, and manufacturability. Its balanced, symmetric architecture simplifies cutting and nesting, further minimizing waste. The co-molding of Fortium™ SMC and QISO® results in parts that are not only stronger but also more sustainable.
The Perfect Combination for High-Stress Applications
Fortium™ SMC and QISO® share the same fiber loading by weight, simplifying design parameters. For areas requiring higher strength, one layer of QISO® can replace one layer of SMC, meeting mechanical requirements without compromising on performance. This seamless integration makes Fortium QISO as easy to cut, lay, and cure as standard SMC, ensuring a streamlined manufacturing process.
Thanks to QISO’s quasi-isotropic architecture, properties remain consistent in every direction, improving nesting and reducing material waste. This allows for the production of lighter, higher-performing parts that can be molded into both simple and complex geometries. For example, in a truck bed manufacturing application, key stress areas were reinforced with Fortium QISO, resulting in a stronger, more resilient product.
Preliminary trials have shown that Fortium QISO molds well in larger-scale tooling, successfully forming rib structures and adapting to intricate shapes with ease.
Unmatched Performance
Impact testing comparing a standard SMC panel with a 20% thinner panel reinforced with Fortium QISO has demonstrated significant improvements:
Same Tensile Strength
25% Higher Flexural Strength
Enhanced Impact Resistance
Fortium QISO offers a game-changing solution for producing lightweight, high-performance parts that maintain their strength while reducing thickness and conforming to complex geometries.
For more details on this case study:
Property |
Fortium F250-UV (SMC) |
Fortium QISO |
Glass Fiber |
48-52% |
48-52% |
Specific Gravity |
1.7 – 1.8 |
1.7 – 1.8 |
Sheet Weight |
5.4 kg/m2 |
2 kg/m2 |
Impact Testing shows major improvement using Fortium + QISO
