Pinewood Derby Racing: A Study on Aerodynamics

The importance of aerodynamics in pinewood derby racing has been a topic of debate among enthusiasts for years. Some argue that air flow has no significant impact on the speed of these small cars, while others claim that it can make a noticeable difference. In this article, we will explore the effects of aerodynamics on pinewood derby racers and provide some insights to help you improve your chances of winning.

To test the effect of aerodynamics, I built a test car with three different air barriers: none, small, and large. The car was designed to be 3/4 inch high, but can be equipped with a small or large air barrier that increases its height to 1-1/4 inches or 1-3/4 inches, respectively (see Figure 1). I used an accurate timer to capture the heat times and repeated the process 10 times.

The results showed that the car without an air barrier reached speeds of around 9.5 MPH, while the small air barrier increased speed by about 0.2 MPH, reaching a top speed of approximately 9.7 MPH. The large air barrier had a more significant impact, increasing speed by around 0.6 MPH and reaching a top speed of around 10.1 MPH.

These findings suggest that aerodynamics do have an effect on pinewood derby cars, even at low speeds like those typically seen in these races. In fact, studies by Michael Lastufka found that a distinct aerodynamic effect was measurable (unpublished testing).

So, how can you minimize the effects of air flow and improve your chances of winning? Here are some tips:

* Use a small or large air barrier to reduce air resistance.

* Experiment with different wheel designs and materials to optimize airflow.

* Consider using lubricants that reduce friction and allow your car to glide smoothly over the track.

By understanding the importance of aerodynamics in pinewood derby racing, you can make informed decisions about your car's design and construction. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, incorporating these tips into your racing strategy may help you achieve faster speeds and improve your chances of winning.

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