Wing construction materials

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sgth0mas
sgth0mas
3
Joined: 18 Mar 2015, 03:42

Wing construction materials

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Are F1 wings made purely of carbon fiber or is it a mix of carbon/aramid?

I know the wings are designed to flex in some load cases, and i would think the lower modulus of aramid could help while still maintining a high strength. I guess this could also be done through layup orientation, and anisotropy may help a team game the deflection tests more. Or they could play with different volume fractions but i would assume that would add unnecessary weight.

Or is everything related to wing manufacture proprietary...thus no public information?

Cold Fussion
Cold Fussion
93
Joined: 19 Dec 2010, 04:51

Re: Wing construction materials

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I would be surprised to learn they were using aramid outside of any task that require a high degree of impact or abrasion resistance. Aramid fibres are significantly weaker and less stiff than carbon, and weight is at a premium. However I don't have any specific knowledge of their construction.

Illustrated Tech
Illustrated Tech
2
Joined: 10 Jun 2015, 18:04

Re: Wing construction materials

Post

Obviously the wing has to be stiff enough to pass the FIA deflection tests, so to achieve this with the minimum mass CFRP, which has the highest specific modulus, would be the optimum choice.

The regulations require impact resistant materials in the endplates for the purpose of containing debris, hence aramid fibres, which have a greater fracture toughness, could be used:
3.4.3 In order to avoid the spread of debris on the track following an accident, the outer skins of the front wing endplates and any turning vanes in the vicinity of the front wheels (and any similarly vulnerable bodywork parts in this area), must be made predominantly from materials which are included for the specific purpose of containing debris. The FIA must be satisfied that all such parts are constructed in order to achieve the stated objective.