CRP composites AM expertise leads to Formula Student race car victory

CRP Technology (Modena, Italy) has partnered with MoRe Modena Racing (Modena) from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, providing its 3D printing capabilities and Windform materials for the team’s hybrid race car, M24-LH. This collaboration has resulted in the team's historic win reportedly as the first Italian team to secure victory at the 2024 Formula Student Austria competition, held at the RedBull Ring in Zeltweg from July 21-25. 

This achievement was supported by a 2-year technical partnership between CRP Technology and MoRe Modena Racing. CRP Technology provided its selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printing services and proprietary Windform materials for the M24-LH. CRP Technology’s Windform materials consist of a range of carbon fiber- and glass fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP, GFRP) reinforcements. The M24-LH, unveiled shortly before the competition, features aerodynamic and structural components engineered and manufactured using these materials. 

Key contributions by CRP Technology include: 

• Top cover of the upper and lower cascade winglet of the front wing: Manufactured using Windform SL, these components enhance aerodynamic efficiency by increasing downforce and reducing drag. 
• Rib of the turning vane of the front wing: Created from Windform XT 2.0, this element enables structural rigidity and stability. 
• Front, central and rear connection covers: Constructed from Windform TPU, these components can improve aerodynamic efficiency and stability. 
• Paddles for gear shifting: Designed using Windform SL, these components fit the driver’s fingers while maintaining a lightweight design. 
• Support components for bus bars and windings: Made with Windform LX 3.0, these parts withstand continuous thermal stress and enable high mechanical and insulating properties.

• Top and back covers of the turning vane of the front wing: Made from Windform SL and Windform XT 2.0, these covers are designed to optimize the outwash effect of the wing for better overall performance. 

This partnership is an extension of CRP’s long-standing commitment to innovation and excellence in motorsport,” says Franco Cevolini, CEO and technical director of CRP Technology. “It not only supports the development of cutting-edge solutions but also facilitates the transfer of knowledge and technology between industry and academia.” 

The M24-LH features a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, a modified Suzuki GSX-R engine running on ethanol and a custom-built battery pack powering two electric motors. This hybrid powertrain delivers more than 100 horsepower with a total vehicle weight of approximately 220 kilograms, coupled with a carbon fiber aerodynamic package generating 210 kilograms of downforce at 100 kilometers per hour. 

Beatrice Terzo, team leader of MoRe Modena Racing, says, “The support we’ve received from CRP Technology has been crucial in enhancing our vehicle’s performance and developing our skills as future engineers. This collaboration has enabled us to use advanced materials and technologies that were previously unavailable to us, making a significant difference in our project’s success.”