Effective thermal management that both protects and prolongs the life of race components has led European Le Mans Series GTE front-runners JMW Motorsport to extend its partnership with Zircotec. In addition to ceramic coating the exhaust, JMW Motorsport will use ZircoFlex heatshield on the gearbox air regulator and bulkhead to minimise the adverse effects of heat soak in endurance racing. 2015 will see Zircotec also coat parts of the composite floor for the first time, extending the service life of a costly part.
“Managing heat is a key factor for the reliability in endurance racing,” said JMW’s chief engineer Davey Nicholas. “With the car running for up to 24 hours, pretty much non-stop, not having to worry about thermal management is a big attraction of using Zircotec.”
The benefits of using Zircotec’s technology also appeal to JMW’s driver line up of BTCC driver Sam Tordoff and sportscar specialist George Richardson. “Drivers don’t need the distraction and discomfort of high temperatures in the cockpit. We are always seeking ways to reduce the rate of fatigue,” said Richardson. “Keeping the cockpit cool also reduces the need for the aircon that saps power. Having Zircotec on the car delivers performance and reliability is just what we need in sports car racing. It’s a real advantage.”
JMW Motorsports’ Ferrari 458 GTE will compete in the European Le Mans Series and the iconic Le Mans 24 Hours in 2015.
