Casting Study: Q-LOK cleat fastening system – MacNeill Engineering/Worldwide

Initially, the Q-LOK design was all plastic for low-impact sports. However, for high-impact sports such as soccer and football the added strength of zinc alloy was necessary to meet impact requirements. Die-cast zinc provides the receptacles with superior corrosion resistance and strength. A design element permitted by zinc’s ductility is the securing of a steel disk in the back of the receptacle. In a separate operation, the disk is inserted into the back of the casting. A lip surrounding the disk is then rolled over, permanently securing it in place. An example of zinc’s strength is the receptacle’s profile design. It is produced to a narrower profile than that required by a plastic design, thereby decreasing the thickness of the sole, lowering manufacturing costs and increasing shoe design freedom.