HANOVER, Germany -- Dana unveiled the Spicer Formed Aluminum Tube Driveshaft at IAA Commercial Vehicles 2012. Designed commercial vehicles up to Class 6, the Spicer Formed Aluminum Tube Driveshaft offers manufacturers a single-piece assembly that delivers reduced weight and increased assembly clearance when compared to a traditional two-piece steel driveshaft.

Available in the summer of 2013 as an option for Spicer Life Series driveshafts in North America, the Spicer Formed Aluminum Tube Driveshaft weighs up to 25% less than two-piece steel assemblies, and it reduces cab noise and vibration, according to the company.

Starting with a straight tube, the Spicer Formed Aluminum Tube Driveshaft is shaped to have an expanded center using a proprietary hydroforming manufacturing process. This expanded center allows it to run at higher speeds for a given length while offering increased strength and up to a five percent reduction in weight over straight aluminum tube driveshaft designs.

Because the driveshaft consists of a single piece, part complexity is reduced and vehicle system responsiveness is improved. By eliminating the center bearing required in a two-piece assembly, the Spicer Formed Aluminum Tube Driveshaft reduces noise, vibration, and harshness in the cab. The single-piece assembly is also lighter weight, increasing vehicle efficiency.