Refractory metals in motor racing
Between high-tech, heaviness and lightness
It requires sophisticated knowledge: how to use weights in racing – and especially in Formula 1 – that give a vehicle the right “drive”, controls the handling correctly and sets an ideal centre of gravity. Refractory metals are among the high-tech materials in motor racing. Since cars are getting lighter and lighter, but the minimum weights prescribed in motor racing must not be undercut, the additional ballast can be installed in the form of tungsten plates. It is a matter of balance – on the outside of the bodywork as well as on the inside of the engines, which have to prove very special heat resistance. Refractory metals make it possible to manufacture components that have to withstand high temperatures and at the same time are heavy and resistant. Its special properties make tungsten an indispensable component in the automotive industry.
Use of refractory metals in motor racing
All in all, refractory metals offer many advantages in motor racing because they can withstand very high temperatures and mechanical stresses and are thus ideally suited for the production of components such as brake discs and exhaust systems. Another advantage is that refractory metals have a high corrosion resistance and can be used for a long time without corrosion and thus without loss of performance.
