Ferrari
312T
A model of the iconic Ferrari 312T is run through bramble’s CFD software and the results of the Formula 1 aerodynamics are analysed.
Downforce generation design in Formula 1
When we talk about Formula 1 aerodynamics, the Ferrari 312T is a car that stands out as a bridge between the minimalist aero packages of the late 1960s and the more complex designs that defined the late 1970s and beyond. In this article, we use bramble’s high-fidelity CFD simulation software to revisit this classic car and understand how its aerodynamic devices shaped performance.
Formula 1 aerodynamics in the 1970s
The 1970s marked the decade when downforce generation became a decisive factor in Formula 1 performance. As engineers realised that wings could radically improve cornering speed, teams began experimenting with front and rear aero devices. The Ferrari 312T was among the pioneers of this aerodynamic era.
Its main features included:
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Single-element front wing
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Double-element rear wing
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Brake ducts
Each of these elements reflected the early stages of aerodynamic thinking in Formula 1.
Analysing the Ferrari 312T CFD images
The front wing
Lets start off analysing the images by looking at the front wing. This is composed of a high-cambered full-width single element, covering the nose section. It manages to generate low pressure on the underneath surface, but it is also showing trailing edge separation along the span wise after the mid-section.
The rear wing
The rear wing has a double element configuration positioned slightly above the rear tyres height. The flow remains majorly attached beside the centre section, generating high-levels of downforce and an upwash on the wake.
Brake-ducts
As you can see from the images, the front brake-ducts provide increased airflow for the cooling of the brakes.
Analysing the Ferrari 312T CFD images
The front wing
Lets start off analysing the images by looking at the front wing. This is composed of a high-cambered full-width single element, covering the nose section. It manages to generate low pressure on the underneath surface, but it is also showing trailing edge separation along the span wise after the mid-section.
The rear wing
The rear wing has a double element configuration positioned slightly above the rear tyres height. The flow remains majorly attached beside the centre section, generating high-levels of downforce and an upwash on the wake.
brake-ducts
As you can see from the images, the front brake-ducts provide increased airflow for the cooling of the brakes.
Downforce & drag sources
The largest downforce contributors on the Ferrari 312T are the front and rear wings devices, accounting for 84% of the total, resulting in an aero-balance of 10.85% at the front and a drag to lift ratio of 1.17.
The largest drag contributors are the exposed wheels with 31% and the front and rear wings, with a combined contribution of 27% due to the lift induced drag.
Ferrari 312T CFD videos
Lessons from the Ferrari 312T
The Ferrari 312T is a perfect example of how Formula 1 aerodynamics evolved from simple add-ons into a critical performance science. Its single- and double-element wings, combined with early efforts at managing cooling and flow interaction, laid the groundwork for the multi-element, highly optimised aero packages of later decades.
With bramble’s CFD simulations, we can quantify these historical designs in a way that was impossible at the time. By measuring flow separation, pressure distribution, and force balance, engineers today can extract lessons from the past and apply them to modern challenges in motorsport, road cars, and beyond.
Stay tuned for more explorations into the history and future of Formula 1 aerodynamics, all powered by bramble.