Brake Ventilation Air Duct Design

  • Context: Automotive 
  • Thread starter Thread starter RS3DG
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the design of brake ventilation air ducts for track cars, specifically emphasizing the importance of directing high-pressure air from the front bumper to the brake rotors. Key recommendations include maintaining smooth walls, avoiding sharp bends, and tapering the duct to enhance airflow. The conversation highlights the critical need for effective cooling to prevent brake overheating, particularly in high-performance racing scenarios. Participants reference practical experiences and materials, such as using Styrofoam and fiberglass for duct construction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of aerodynamic principles related to airflow.
  • Familiarity with materials like Styrofoam and fiberglass for duct construction.
  • Knowledge of brake system heat management in racing contexts.
  • Experience with 3D printing techniques for custom automotive parts.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Aerodynamic principles in automotive design" for better airflow management.
  • Explore "3D printing materials for automotive applications" to enhance duct durability.
  • Learn about "Brake cooling techniques in motorsport" to optimize performance.
  • Investigate "Corvette Z06 brake duct designs" for effective ducting solutions.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for automotive engineers, track car builders, and racing enthusiasts focused on enhancing brake performance and cooling efficiency in high-temperature environments.

RS3DG
Messages
3
Reaction score
2
Hello. I am not an engineer, please forgive if I ask an ill-informed question.

I am currently designing Brake Duct parts, that I plan to print and use on a track car. I am planning an Inlet in the front bumper (high pressure I believe) and directing it back to the center of the brake rotors.

My question is there anything I can design with the surface of the walls or in the center of the tube that would help increase the air speed inside the tube. I am remembering years ago when Miller Lite advertised a 'Vortex' neck that made for a smoother pour, and also when you spin a bottle with fluid in it, you can get the fluid out of the bottle faster. Not sure there is anything I can do to improve the airflow, just thought I would ask.

Thank you for any replies.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
RS3DG said:
I am currently designing Brake Duct parts, that I plan to print and use on a track car.
Do you think your brakes are overheating? What kind of track car / racing is this for?

Paging @Ranger Mike
 
I can absolutely testify that you need to cool the brake rotors! Yes , get fresh air to the rotors and increase the pad life. A Nascar or similar full body car will have 1200° F heat on the right front wheel in a 30 lap race. Heat is a killer on brakes so the more you can do too cool them the better.
Do not worry about vortex, aero dynamic principles, get as much outside air the rotors as possible without introducing more aero drag!
 
  • Informative
Likes   Reactions: jim mcnamara and berkeman
Thank you for the replies!
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: berkeman
from Carroll Smith book - Prepare to Win
I used Styrofoam from the hobby store and made my brake ducts. I covered it in fiberglass.

ducts_20250411_233103.jpg
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Smooth walls and easy bends help air move better through the duct. Tapering it a bit can speed up the airflow to cool the brakes more. Spinning the air sounds cool but it usually just makes things messy... so straight and simple works best.
 
RS3DG said:
I am currently designing Brake Duct parts, that I plan to print and use on a track car. I am planning an Inlet in the front bumper (high pressure I believe) and directing it back to the center of the brake rotors.
Welcome!

Please, see:




 
Thanks again for taking the time for the replies, it helps.

The one shared video shows what I have on a 2018 RS3, and I'll be looking to do more with this car later. For now, I working on a 2010 Miata, I have a number of parts already and I am basing the solution on Corvette Z06 ducts as a starting point.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Lnewqban

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
871
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
8K