What is ERS in F1? How is it different from DRS? » Today Latest Stories

The constant development of new and cutting-edge technology has always been the hallmark of Formula 1. Among the hundreds and perhaps even thousands of technological elements that go into a modern F1 car are Hnergy Rcom.ecovery sThe system, known simply as Ers. It’s a hybrid piece of technology that allows Formula 1 cars to extract every last bit of performance and power from their various components that would otherwise be wasted.

In this article, let’s dive into what makes ERS work and how it differs from ERS Drrag Reducation sSystem (DRS).

Energy recovery system overview

Formula 1 thrives on pushing the boundaries of technology and engineering. Enter the Energy Recovery System (ERS), a hybrid system that first made its mark in 2009 with the introduction of Kinetic Hnergy Rcom.ecovery sCARES system. The concept was simple yet revolutionary: to harness the energy lost during braking and convert it into boosted power when needed.

The ERS system in Formula 1 has evolved since then, and modern Formula 1 cars have two primary ERS components. the MGU-H (Mauthor gElectrical generator ShFoolish – Heat) and MGU-K (Mauthor gElectrical generator ShFoolish – KMy stronghold). These components work in unison to capture thermal energy from the turbocharger and kinetic energy during braking, turning Formula 1 cars into energy-efficient power plants.

The MGU-H, connected to the turbocharger, plays a dual role as generator and engine. When operating as an engine, it eliminates turbo lag, ensuring optimal power delivery. On the other hand, the MGU-K, connected to the crankshaft, acts as an electric motor during acceleration and a generator during braking, adding additional power to the engine.

In Formula 1, where every millisecond counts, ERS stands as a testament to the sport’s relentless pursuit of speed and efficiency.

What is Motor Generator Unit – Heat (MGU-H)?

Now, let’s take a closer look at the first major component of the ERS – the Motor Generating Unit – Heat (MGU-H). This component works in conjunction with the turbocharger, and is an important player in the balance of power boost. Imagine a turbocharger as a duo – a turbine and a compressor connected by a shaft.

Exhaust gases from sflower ShThe nit (commonly referred to as PU) strikes the turbine, causing it to rotate, which in turn drives the compressor. This turbocharging process amplifies engine power and fuel efficiency. The MGU-H acts as an electric motor/generator located between the turbine and compressor.

The MGU-H is a very strategic system when it comes to Formula 1 cars. When operated as an engine, it ensures smooth response from the turbocharger, eliminating the dreaded turbo lag during acceleration. As a generator, it converts rotational energy from exhaust gases into electrical energy, causing red lights at the rear of the car to flash to signal energy harvesting to fellow racers.

However, due to the complexities involved and the high cost of manufacturing these systems, Formula 1 has decided not to use MGU-H from 2026 onwards.

What is a motor-generator unit (MGU-K)?

MGU-K is the second critical component of ERS. This unit, which is physically attached to the crankshaft, also plays a dynamic role. It turns into a motor during acceleration and a generator during braking.

When the driver deploys power, the MGU-K turns into a compact electric motor, which injects up to 161 more horsepower In the engine. However, there is a catch. There is a limit to the duration of this power-up, allowing the power to flow for only 33 seconds per spin.

During deceleration, when the driver eases the accelerator pedal or applies the brakes, the MGU-K smoothly switches turns to the generator. By harvesting kinetic energy from the still rotating crankshaft, the MGU-K generates electrical energy, contributing not only to energy storage but also to improved braking performance.

What is Energy Store (ES) in Formula 1?

Now, let’s focus on the component that stores all the magic of ERS. The energy store (ES) is essentially a lithium-ion battery, weighing between 20-25 kg, and acts as the heart of the ERS, storing the combined energy from both the MGU-K and MGU-H.

The role of an energy store is not just about storage, but about the strategic use of stored energy. When deployed, the battery is released 4 megajoules of power per revolution to the MGU-K, providing a significant boost to the power unit. However, there is a balance – the recovery process from MGU-K has been capped 2 megajoules per roll.

The power bank also ensures a precise balance between maximum and minimum charge states, preventing excessive power fluctuations during the race. This feature allows the gradual deterioration of the battery without the need for frequent replacement, and is a strategic signal of Formula 1’s efforts towards a sustainable future.

What is the flashing red light at the back of a Formula 1 car?

Now that we have all the ERS components out of the way, let’s take a look at how ERS is deployed over a race weekend.

How is ERS used in Formula 1?

The use of Energy Recovery Systems (ERS) in Formula 1 is like a game of chess on wheels. While the MGU-H remains tirelessly active, ensuring a continuous supply of energy, the MGU-K coordinates the balance between energy harvesting and deployment.

However, the real magic lies in the strategic deployment of this stored energy. Each team carefully plans when and where to activate the MGU-K, determining the duration of its activity for optimal energy distribution throughout the race.

However, the plans are not set in stone. The unpredictable nature of the race presents a strategic battle on the tarmac. Drivers may need to adapt their energy deployment strategy quickly – decisive overtaking, a defensive move, or a podium push can reshape the energy deployment strategies teams decide on.

Enter “Layer Modes” or “SoC Modes”. You may have heard race engineers asking drivers via radio to switch to different modes. These are the situations they are referring to. It’s basically a set of pre-defined power unit configurations. Charging mode gives priority to harvest, Neutral position balances energy, Deployment mode Focuses on the maximum energy typically used in qualifying sessions, and Override button The steering wheel provides an instant boost of energy for decisive maneuvers.

How is ERS different from DRS?

Now, let’s uncover the final piece of the puzzle – how ERS differs from a Drag Reduction System (DRS). Introduced in 2011 and still prevalent after rule adjustments since the start of the 2022 season, DRS enables the driver to manipulate aerodynamics to achieve a competitive advantage.

The essence of DRS is the driver’s ability to open a flap in his rear wing when he falls within one second behind the car in front of him. This deliberate adjustment reduces aerodynamic drag, enabling the pursuing vehicle to achieve higher top speeds and potentially execute successful overtaking manoeuvres. While both systems (ERS and DRS) aim to elevate the racing experience, they do so in different ways.

ERS is always available to the driver during the race as long as he has not exhausted the maximum permissible power deployment per lap, providing strategic boosts at any moment, not restricted by fixed activation zones. In contrast, DRS is a tactical tool, which can only be used when tracking within one second of the vehicle in front to obtain an aerodynamic boost by opening the rear wings. However, DRS creates specific overtaking opportunities.

Furthermore, DRS can also not be used during the first two laps of the race, after a mid-race restart, or after the end of the safety car period. On the other hand, the use of ERS has no such limitations. The differences extend even further, as the DRS system is disabled during wet racing conditions. However, drivers are still allowed to use the ERS system as they please during wet conditions. Finally, ERS, rooted in power dynamics, complements the car’s power unit, while DRS is all about manipulating aerodynamics to achieve a speed advantage.

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As technology evolves, the game evolves on the right track. The strategic deployment of energy and the delicate balance between harvesting and boosting add layers of complexity to the sport we all love.