Brake Ventilation Air Duct Design

  • Context: Automotive 
  • Thread starter Thread starter RS3DG
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design of brake ventilation air ducts for track cars, focusing on how to effectively direct airflow to cool brake rotors. Participants explore various design considerations, including the shape and surface of the ducts, to enhance airspeed and cooling efficiency.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that smooth walls and avoiding sharp bends can improve airflow through the duct.
  • Another participant recommends curving the inlet and outlet to reduce the vena contracta effect.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes the importance of cooling brake rotors, citing high temperatures experienced in racing scenarios.
  • Some participants argue against complex aerodynamic features like vortex generation, advocating for straightforward designs that maximize airflow without increasing drag.
  • One participant shares a personal experience using Styrofoam and fiberglass for duct construction, indicating practical approaches to material selection.
  • Another participant mentions tapering the duct to potentially increase airflow speed, while cautioning that spinning air may complicate the design.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of cooling brake rotors and the need for smooth airflow, but there are differing opinions on the effectiveness of specific design features such as vortex generation and duct tapering. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to duct design.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of expertise and experience, which may influence their suggestions. The discussion includes references to specific racing contexts and personal experiences, highlighting the practical implications of design choices.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in automotive engineering, particularly those involved in track car design and performance optimization, may find this discussion relevant.

RS3DG
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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.
 
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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!
 
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Thank you for the replies!
 
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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.
 
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