WIX Archives

Re: What about the fuel issue???

Posted by Jim on Wed Oct 17, 2001 10:59:51 AM

In reply top Re: What about the fuel issue??? posted by Tony on Wed Oct 17, 2001 09:32:23 AM


Not an expert here, but I believe that most motorsports, with the exception of NASCAR, use specialty racing methanol fuels. Even though it burns with an invisible flame, the flash point is lower which gives an added safety factor in crashes. I'm not sure about the fuel for Formual 1, but I cannot recall any crashes in recent years where there was any major fire.

I've been pondering whether warbirds (and/or general aviation aircraft) could switch to racing methanol, or some version with an octane boost. From what I remember reading about methanol for auto use, you get a significant reduction in mpg when using methanol. Also, I recall it being mentioned that methanol has different corrosive properties which could require (expensive) modifications to the engine and fuel systems. Also, racing methanol is not very cheap either, at least not now. I suppose these questions would be better answered by a one of our resident fuel/chemical experts. Hydrongen fuel could be a thing of the future, even though it would likly mean even more expensive modifications for aviation use. BMW is testing 12 hydrogen-fueled cars now and claim the same performance as a gasoline-fueled vehicle. Promising technology for autos, at least. I'd buy one. A Japanese automaker (Honda, I think) has developed solar-powered devices for producing hydrogen, so effort is underway for a convenient way to obtain hydrogen fuel.


: I think the engines would have to be built, as per Merlins
: , but with a lot more flexibility.... what grade of fuel d
: o Dormula 1 and Indy car use?

Follow Ups: