Interview with Zytek staff

The RP part supplied to Zytek by CRP RP Dept. is a section of the air intake system on the Zytek LMP1 & 2 engines.
“This part has a significant impact on the performance of the engine.”

Which are the stress/loads involved in the component?
“The main stress/loads applied to the component are the aerodynamic, vibration and thermal loads in use on both the engine dyno and in the LeMans race car.”

Which were the critical problems of this component?
“The critical problems of this component are the minimal mass & very tight time constraints plus the need to produce just a few components without the need for expensive tooling and patterns. The shape is such that it which would be extremely difficult to form by traditional methods.
The technologies and the materials used in the past were the carbon fibre / epoxy laminated moulding formed on an aluminium mould. The limits of those past technologies was owing to the complex shape of the part.
The section required is difficult to achieve with traditional technology. CRP were able to offer a fast & cost effective solution.”

Which are the advantages obtained with the new technology/material and method?
“Mainly the ability to go from CAD to part on engine in 2 days.
Then, cost is a significant factor to remain competitive in the current LMP market and again CRP were able to offer a fast & cost effective solution.”