F1 EXPLAINED: What does energy density refer to?
While F1 teams are gearing up their preparation for the coming season, Formula One's sole tyre manufacturer Pirelli explains what energy density refers to.
Energy density is the amount of energy contained or stored in a volume or mass of a substance. Applied to Formula 1 tyres, the concept refers to the energy that is absorbed, accumulated and dissipated by the tyre when it is run on track.
This energy is generated mainly through contact with the track surface and the stress to which it is subjected, from both deformation and frictional forces. The more corners the car drives through or the higher the speed, the greater the energy exerted on the tyre.
This energy is turned into heat, increasing the temperature of the rubber, which directly affects grip levels, tyre degradation and performance. Therefore, it is essential to manage energy density in order to keep tyre temperatures within the optimal operating window to maximise performance.
Poor energy density management, for example, in the case of incorrect car balance, can be a contributing factor to issues such as graining or blistering.
According to Pirelli's measurements, Suzuka, Lusail, Silverstone and Spa are all harder on tyres than Zandvoort when it comes to the outright amount of energy exerted.
However, the track that hosts the Dutch Grand Prix is the one where energy density is highest, due to several factors including its relatively short length, the high number of corners, combined with the lack of straights where tyres could be rested and cool down.
