The topic of flexible wings has been present in the F1 paddock for quite some time, with teams constantly seeking maximum efficiency for this solution. But how do these wings move while on the track, and how do teams limit their movement? Let’s explore in this article the advantages of flexible wings and why everyone is pursuing this effect.
The technical regulations of F1 are quite clear. In the section dedicated to wing surfaces, it specifies that no mobile elements are allowed on the cars. According to FIA rules, these elements must be rigidly mounted on their supports without any movement. Of course, this limitation excludes the DRS, which is the only allowed mobile system on the aerodynamics of the single-seaters.
Nevertheless, teams are always looking for regulatory loopholes to gain performance advantages. Over the years, various teams have emerged with this particular flex, especially at the front, allowing them to “fly” under certain conditions. To curb these illicit movements, the FIA issued TD018 at the end of August 2023, a new regulation intended to put an end to the flexing of wing surfaces.
How Do the Wings Move?
The regulator’s goal is to limit the movements of the parts farthest from the nose of the single-seaters. If we observe the construction of F1 wings, we can see how the upper flaps are practically “cut” in two by a metal blade. These flaps, up to the outermost bracket, are “free” to move for any angle corrections. This section is one of those accused by the FIA for excessive movement during driving. Vertical movement occurs under the action of aerodynamic load. As the speed increases, these components are subject to an increasingly significant force that pushes them downward, causing a lowering effect.
This results in considerable performance advantages, as it reduces their impact with the incident air. By reducing the frontal area that the air must “pass through,” cars gain a lot in aerodynamic efficiency, reducing their drag. This displacement returns to zero once the applied load decreases along with the speed. Remember that aerodynamic load is directly proportional to the square of the speed, and when the car slows down, it “collapses.”
How Do Teams Make the Wings Flexible?
Research behind these components is endless and primarily involves the choice of materials and their structure. Being made of composite material, specifically carbon, these undergo various tests to verify their rigidity and possible flexion.
As a material with a non-constant density, composite technicians determine, through FEM simulations, the most stressed areas. Subsequently, together with aerodynamic experts, they assess which areas to make “softer” to ensure that the flaps lower under the load. A successful choice leads to the final determination of the number of layers and their arrangement to create the flaps.
Source: f1ingenerale
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