World-leaders in gas measurement and control solutions, Chell Instruments, have donated their latest pressure scanner to Sheffield University’s racing team to support vehicle development for the Formula Student competition in 2025.

Having received the latest nanoDAQ-LTS-16 from Chell Instruments, students from the Sheffield Formula Racing team can now gather precise aerodynamics insights during on-track testing.

“We’re thrilled to receive this equipment from Chell Instruments which gives us the opportunity to test and validate our vehicle’s design. As we do not have a wind tunnel, Chell has provided us with the tools to help us optimise aerodynamics with real-world data gathered on the test track” says Mark Byers, Head of Marketing and Comms at Sheffield Formula Racing.

Sheffield Formula Racing is a student-led team that unites engineering students from across the University of Sheffield to design, manufacture and race a single seat formula-style racing car.

Hosted at the Silverstone National Race Circuit, the annual Formula Student Competition sees over 100 university teams from around the world compete, earning points for both static and dynamic events to determine the best vehicle.

Now entering their 16th Formula Student Competition, Sheffield Formula Racing has a strong track record with many podium finishes and winning the championship in 2021.

By using the lightweight nanoDAQ-LTS-16 pressure scanner, the Sheffield team can make better designs decisions by measuring air pressure across components such as the front wing, rear wing, sidepods and under tray.

“Sheffield Formula Racing are a fantastic team of aspiring academics that have delivered exceptional results in the Formula Student Competition. When we learned that their aerodynamic development was limited by a lack of wind tunnel, we were eager to provide the technology which could push their vehicle design forward on the test track” says Jamie Shanahan, Director at Chell Instruments.

For over 40 years, Chell Instruments have been providing pressure, vacuum and gas flow measurement equipment. Their products serve a wide range of industries, including aerospace, pharmaceuticals, energy, and motorsport.

Chell’s technology plays a crucial role in aerodynamic testing for top Formula 1 teams, enabling engineers to analyse vehicle properties, refine performance, reduce drag and increase down force in their race-winning cars.

“At Chell, we are always eager to support the next generation of engineers, and we’re excited to see Sheffield Formula Racing leverage our nanoDAQ-LTS-16 to deliver a, hopefully, championship winning design!” concludes Jamie.

For more information on Sheffield Formula Racing, visit https://www.sheffieldformularacing.co.uk/

For more information on Chell Instruments and their work in motorsport, visit https://chell.co.uk/specialisms/automotive-motorsport/