Bridgestone ‘Puts the Lead Out’

Starting with the European Grand Prix, Bridgestone has introduced new recyclable tin weights into its Formula One and GP2 Series wheel and tyre balancing process. The use of tin as balance weights, comments Bridgestone, is believed to have a lower environmental impact than the previously utilised lead weights. Over the course of a season the company uses almost a tonne of wheel balance weights.

“Bridgestone’s Environmental Philosophy is to help ensure a healthy environment for current and future generations so we are always looking at ways to reduce our environmental impact,” commented Hiroshi Yasukawa. director of Bridgestone Motorsport. “Lead weights have been used in Formula One for many years and offered a good technical solution. However we now believe that we have a more environmentally sound method with tin weights. We have also changed our processes as well to enable recycling of all the waste weights after they have been used. We are very grateful for the close co-operation of all the teams in assisting us to make this change.”

Hirohide Hamashima, Bridgestone Director of Motorsport Tyre Development, added: “Even a highly sophisticated Formula One or GP2 tyre and wheel requires balancing as there are subtle variations in the tyre and wheel as well as a valve and sensors connected to the wheel rim. An unbalanced wheel causes vibrations, making the job for the driver very unpleasant, and even potentially causing problems for components on the car. This means that ensuring the wheel and tyre is balanced correctly is an important consideration for Bridgestone and the teams. We are happy that these new weights offer a good solution.”

“Although this may seem like a small change there are many considerations involved and we have been working closely with our weight supplier and the teams to ensure this development is made,” concluded Bridgestone Motorsport Tyre Logistics manager James Gresham. “Each team has its own wheel rims and brake and ducting systems, so we had to ensure everyone was happy with the change. Although we only add small amounts of weight to each wheel rim, over the course of a season this adds up to almost a metric tonne, so recycling these weights will be beneficial.”

Tyrepress.com reported that Bridgestone began using Trax Series 790 Racing weights as far back as a year ago. According to leading wheel weight manufacturer, Trax JH, these weights offer “good clearance and large surface area for retention. High quality tape.”