How to build a splitter for only $100 | Against the wind: Part 3 | Articles

So, what’s the source for this proprietary “rocket nose coating”?

In reply to Shawn_D :

NLR said it’s a trade secret, but it’s a pretty cool process. 

“And if the front of the splitter deflects enough to touch the ground, it will block all airflow under the splitter. No airflow means no downforce, which is why a flapping splitter can suddenly remove all front downforce mid-corner. That’s bad.”

I’m having a difficult time visualizing why this is true.

Also, is a flat bottom side to the splitter the best shape? Wouldn’t a curved wing like airflowish like shape be preferred?

This may be common knowledge but my buddy ran a nascar truck team for a minute and they set up their suspension so the splitters just touch the ground.   Of course they’re not deflecting but the truck compresses in the corners, lowering it so it scrapes.  And they’re thick – they are not folding down.  
 

To VolvoHeretic: it is not a case of the splitter touching the ground removes ALL downforce, just that it reduces the downforce by a very large portion (~30% is typical). The downforce is generated by the air reacting on the bottom surface at increased local speed. On the flat vs curved surface question, there is a case to be made for non-flat surfaces, but the first 90% of performance can be had with a simple flat shape. After that testing and development are required to get the rest.

To jfryjfry: On the trucks, the splitter is just under 1/2″ thick so it does have some…