In the F1 in Schools competition, a few thousandths of a second can separate the champions from the rest. What many don’t realize is that, with the right adjustments, it’s possible to drastically improve your prototype’s performance.
Let’s get straight to the point: if you want a fast car, you need to minimize resistance as much as possible—both from air and from the internal components of your project. This isn’t magic, it’s science: smart aerodynamics, high-performance bearings, and strategic assembly. And that’s exactly what we’ll cover in this article.
1. Aerodynamic Design: The Starting Point for Transformation
3D-printed prototypes offer complete flexibility in design, which can be leveraged to create shapes that minimize drag.
Smooth curves, low profiles, airflow channels, and clean surfaces are essential for air to flow effortlessly over the car.
💡 The ideal approach is to test different variations using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to find the most efficient shape.
2. Bearings: The True Key to Multiplying Your Speed
The biggest performance leap comes from replacing conventional bearings with high-tech models, such as hybrid ceramic and full ceramic bearings with nylon cages.
▸ Hybrid Ceramic
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Stainless steel races and cage, ceramic balls
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About 25% lighter than standard bearings
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Optional lubrication
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Low friction between balls and cage
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Excellent cost-benefit for competitions
▸ Full Ceramic with Nylon Cage
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Fully resistant to oxidation
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Up to 40% lighter than standard bearings
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Maximum rotation with minimal weight
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Low friction and higher wear resistance
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Optional lubrication
No lubrication? Yes. The less internal resistance, the higher the rotation. These bearings operate perfectly dry.
3. Why Eliminate Lubrication?
In industrial contexts, lubrication protects. In competitions, it slows you down.
Oil or grease creates viscous resistance that limits bearing rotation.
That’s why, in F1 in Schools, the best choice is bearings designed to run without lubricant.
✅ Less friction
✅ Lighter weight
✅ Higher speed
4. Technical Comparison: Choose Wisely
| Bearing Type | Composition | Lubrication | Weight Reduction | Performance Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hybrid Ceramic | Ceramic balls (Si₃N₄) + stainless steel races and cage | Optional | Up to 25% lighter | ★★★★☆ |
| 100% Ceramic | Ceramic races and balls (ZrO₂) + nylon cage | Optional | Up to 40% lighter | ★★★★★ |
Both are available from VICAN Bearings, with fast shipping and technical support for all teams.
5. Test, Analyze, and Optimize Your Performance
The best results come from combining the right components, proper assembly, and precise adjustments. That’s why you should test your car with different bearing configurations. Observe:
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Track time
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Trajectory stability
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Component wear
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Replacement needs
Your best time comes from the combination of engineering, trial, and analysis.
6. Where to Find Competition-Ready Bearings
VICAN Bearings offers tailored solutions for teams competing in F1 in Schools. Our products deliver the rotation and durability you need to perform at the highest level.
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Hybrid Bearings
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100% Ceramic Bearings
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VICAN "Let me Spin" Bearing Cleaner
With the right choices, it’s entirely possible to multiply your prototype’s speed—especially for projects starting with conventional lubricated bearings.
Adjust your design, invest in the best bearings, and eliminate unnecessary friction.
VICAN is ready to help you cross the finish line in record time! 🚀
