Tyre regulations updated for Darwin
Supercars has updated tyre regulations commencing at the Merlin Darwin Triple Crown.
The three-race Darwin event will be held solely on the Dunlop Super Soft tyre compound.
The tyre was last used at the Pizza Hut Winton SuperSprint.
Following the Winton event, Dunlop advised Supercars of structural effects to the Super Soft tyres were found during the event caused by tyre pressures.
After discussions with Dunlop, on the grounds of safety, amendments have been made to the Operations Manual.
In a statement, Dunlop said: "Dunlop saw evidence of sidewall stress on several tyres following the recent Pizza Hut Winton SuperSprint event.
"This was reported to the Supercars Technical Department and the decision has been made to increase the minimum tyre pressure to 20 psi due to the high ambient temperatures in Darwin."
This change will increase the safety margin of the tyres, providing more support for the construction, giving the tyre a larger working window.
The updated Rule D17.1.16 stipulates: "It is not permitted to use any device which artificially varies the temperature in or of a Control Tyre, regardless of whether the Control Tyre is mounted on a wheel or not".
Furthermore, Rule 17.1.16.1 says: "Tyres are not permitted to be stored in direct sunlight, either in the paddock or in a Teams garage".
Rule D17.1.17 now states: "The minimum permitted pressure of a Control Tyre when fitted to a Car is 20psi which must be achieved at any time that the Car is on the Circuit during any Session".
A new rule, D17.1.20, has been created in order to clarify where tyres can be stored which is in the Dunlop Tyres allocated service area, a Teams shade structure or inside the Teams allocated pit lane garage.
Track action will begin at the Merlin Darwin Triple Crown next Friday with all sessions broadcast live on Fox Sports 506.
Seven will broadcast live on Saturday and Sunday. The event will be streamed live via Kayo.
The 2022 season will resume in Darwin on June 17-19. Purchase your tickets now.
