Do spray guards really work in Formula 1? Ferrari's test speaks volumes

09/05/2024 13:43

The issue of water spray kicked up behind Formula 1 cars has been a longstanding problem that the FIA has been working on for some time. On several occasions, we have seen significant walls of water rising behind the cars, causing visibility issues. In an effort to address or eliminate this problem, the Ferrari F1-75 hit the track at Fiorano to conduct new tests on the spray guards.

Last year, the Federation had tested version 1.0 of the spray guards in collaboration with Mercedes, with the aim of implementing them on the cars. However, the feedback received was negative, prompting the FIA to immediately work on improving the emitted spray. The primary goal of the FIA is to find a solution that can be used even in dry conditions, but the latest prototype tested at Fiorano seems to rule out this possibility.

From the photos emerging from the Fiorano circuit, the new spray guards are actual wheel covers, with only a small portion of the tire visible at the bottom. Furthermore, the new covers appear to not work properly, with water spray still very evident. In the photo, we can see the F1-75 equipped with the new spray guard specification. Behind the 2022 Ferrari, we can find the SF-24 engaged in these FIA tests and exempt from the filming day scheduled for tomorrow.

However, despite the presence of these anti-water cloud “shields,” the spray generated by the F1-75 is still present. From the photos, we can also understand what generates this cloud that makes it difficult for the pursuers to see. Indeed, the diffuser, which pushes the fluid flowing under the car upward, creates this, albeit smaller, wall of water. Resolving this issue remains quite challenging, as the basis of these aerodynamic concepts is the desire to “shoot” the wake as high as possible from the cars.

Show your support for Scuderia Ferrari with official merchandise collection! Click here to enter the F1 online Store and shop securely!And also get your F1 tickets for every race with VIP hospitality and unparalleled insider access. Click here for the best offers to support Charles and Carlos from the track!

Awaiting Ferrari’s verdict, these tests with the spray guards are becoming increasingly complex and difficult to complete.

Source: f1ingenerale

The post Do spray guards really work in Formula 1? Ferrari’s test speaks volumes appeared first on Scuderia Fans.