Aerodynamic study of the wake effects on a F1 car

Abstract

The present study is based on the evaluation and quantification of the aero- dynamic performance on a 2017 spec. adapted F1 car —the latest major aerodynamic update— by means of a CFD study. Both free stream and flow disturbance conditions are evaluated in order to study and quantify the effects that the wake may cause on the latter case.

The CFD techniques are primarily selected as other resources —such as the us- age of a wind tunnel or any other experimental solutions—, are currently out of reach to deal with such a study. However, as the CFD discipline involves a rather strict and accurate process to be able to deal with external aerodynamic prob- lems, the methodology is accepted in order to discern whether the current F1 regulations require an urgent change in terms of aerodynamic designs.