The last two races of the 2023 Formula 1 season have highlighted the significant issues of the SF-23 on fast and slow tracks. Despite this, the technicians in Maranello are working to understand the car and lay the groundwork for the 2024 Formula 1 single-seater. For the Belgian Grand Prix, Scuderia Ferrari has introduced some innovations for the rear wing, aiming for better efficiency, and it is highly likely to be used again at Monza. Let’s take a closer look at the updates included in this specification.
The new rear wing introduced in Belgium represents another specific part produced by Ferrari for its SF-23. This specification differs in several aspects, starting with the design of the mainplane. It now features an almost linear shape, unlike the previous versions that had a spoon-like design. Additionally, the camber of the profile has been greatly reduced to minimize aerodynamic resistance. The area that has changed the most is the upper part, where the anchor points of the movable flap are located.
Analyzing the geometry of the flap, we can see that it has a relatively extensive chord. This brings two advantages, both with the DRS (Drag Reduction System) closed and open. When deactivated, the flap extends the mainplane, keeping the lower side of the wing in a downward position, generating essential aerodynamic load, particularly crucial in the second sector. On the other hand, when the flap is open, it significantly reduces drag, enhancing the effect of the DRS. Moreover, on the trailing edge of the movable flap, there are two very important details. The first is the nolder, which aims to recover some downforce, while the second is the cut behind the actuator. This latter detail might serve to prevent disturbed flows from affecting the wing’s efficiency when the DRS is closed.
Modified endplate anchor for better air expansion
The most interesting modification, however, can be found in the endplate area, where the upper flap now attaches differently to the sideplates. Upon closer observation of this novelty, we can see that the support has a narrower curvature to fit into the pressure side of the mainplane. This modification might be aimed at achieving better air expansion, utilizing the upper part of the wing’s main element. Continuing our gaze towards the rear, we can also notice that the terminal part of the upper flap has been modified. This new specification features a new curvature and a cut on the lower side. This new geometry is likely to aid in extracting air from under the wing, generating high-energy air vortices.
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The innovations don’t stop at the upper part of the SF-23 car; in fact, even the diffuser area has a small novelty. For the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, Ferrari has decided to try the single-element beam wing to improve aerodynamic efficiency without compromising its extraction capabilities.
Source: f1ingenerale
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