Maxon motors selected for F1 wing actuators

As the new Formula 1 season gets under way, new rules on aerodynamics have put Maxon Motors quite literally at the forefront of technology to make races more exciting. In 2009, for the first time in over 40 years, F1 drivers will be permitted to alter the aerodynamic characteristics of the car while it is moving, which can boost significantly their chances of overtaking.

The new rule allows for a six-degree movement in adjustable flaps on the vehicle's front wing, up to twice per lap; this will increase downforce to combat the upwash in a rival car's wake, then enable drag to be reduced at the crucial moment for a sudden burst of speed (see larger image).

However, teams wishing to take advantage of the rule change needed to source drives capable of performing the precise movements stipulated, with absolute reliability, while subject to extreme conditions at the front of a 220mph (360km/h) Grand Prix car. Suitable drives also need to be small and light to avoid compromising finely tuned aerodynamics and weight distribution.

High performance in a compact package

Maxon Motor's neodymium magnet-equipped motors have established themselves as contenders for this challenging new task. Because of the NdFeB magnets, the miniature motors deliver immense low-speed torque for their weight and size, enabling F1 teams to gain excellent results from the wing actuator using the smallest possible device. Similarly, Maxon's unflinching commitment to build quality - proven regularly in space, sub-sea and aerospace conditions, to name but a few - makes each motor completely dependable in high-pressure race scenarios.

Indeed, even teams who have not yet adopted variable aerodynamic systems use Maxon motors in fuel and oil pumps, fans or for other critical functions. Maxon says that this year virtually every F1 car will rely upon its technology.

Angelo Guttoriello, CEO of Maxon Motor UK, comments: "It is always gratifying when the world's top engineers depend on Maxon for their most challenging and important applications. Formula 1 is no exception: the teams invest tens of millions of pounds in getting their cars absolutely right, and they all trust our drives to play their part, perfectly, every time.

"In particular, it is great that we are in pretty much every car. Whatever the result, Maxon always wins!"

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