Originally Posted by
m4dyeti
Im interested to know the ideas behind downforce and how it aids in performance on cars.
Im led to believe that the lower the pressure under the car and the higher pressure above the car results in downforce.
What kind of systems make this acheivable?
Wings will cause downforce obviously, but how much does the flat smooth floorplan aid in this process ?
What speeds does the smooth underside come into its own and aid in grip/downforce?
30mph+
80mph+
120mph+
Hope any one can help or offer there knowledge in this HUGE topic.
This book :
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Competition-.../dp/1844252302
Is very good and interesting - if you are a nerd like me
Faster airflow = pressure drop = downforce or lift dependant on position : Think carb venturi and where the petrol goes in.
Get a piece of A4 paper and hold it in front of your mouth parralel to the ground. blow hard over the top and the paper will rise : faster air flow = pressure drop = lift (or down force in reverse).
A (aero) wing is longer on the upside then the down, the air goes quicker over that side giving pressue drop / lift. Trouble is the airflow needs to rejoin without separation and there is allways a ballancing act with drag
