Tire drying is just one of the many things that Formula One drivers have to deal with in the races, but what is it actually and how can it affect how fast they can go?
You may sometimes hear a Formula 1 driver complain to his race engineer over the radio that his tires are deteriorating and he has no grip.
Graining is part of the challenge presented to F1 drivers as they try to reach the checkered flag before the other 19 players – but what is it actually?
When is speed at its worst in Formula 1 and why does it affect how fast drivers can move?
- to explain: What do all the tire colors in F1 mean?
What are the favorite tires in F1?
F1 graininess is a term used to describe tire deterioration over a certain period of time.
It is most prevalent during training or racing when drivers complete longer runs and race simulations.
Basically, as the tire deteriorates, bits of rubber are thrown off its surface.
They then adhere back to the heated tire, creating a bumpy, uneven surface for the tire.
The result of this creates a scenario where the driver lacks grip such as tire pellets.
It reduces the driver’s predictability of tire performance during critical lap points.
When is it at its worst?
Granulation is usually at its worst for drivers on hot days when the track temperature is high.
On cold days, the main problem for drivers is tire heating.
The granulation often goes away on its own as the tire surface becomes smooth again as it wears out.
It is more common in vehicles with softer tires that drivers use.
When they wear out faster, the rubber is shed at a higher rate.
With stiffer tires and even wet-weather tires, they are built to last longer and don’t give you instant grip like the softest tires on the range.
- common: What is a DRS train in F1 and how do the drivers get stuck in it?
In other news, how lap times are determined in F1 races
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