News
January, 2010
Setting records in 50 degrees centigrade without breaking a sweat
Airworks has played a key part in helping a British built steam car, driven by Charles Burnett, to break the 103 year old land speed record at Edward's Air force Base, California. The car reached an average speed of 139.843mph during two runs along a measured mile in the heat of the US desert.
The Airworks team were essential to the success experienced by the British team. Providing a clean, well lit and most importantly cool, 20ft insulatd container for the team to service and repair various parts of the car in.
Airworks designed and installed the air conditioning and ventilation system that was able to be run in the middle of Rogers Dry Lakebed on Edward's Air Base. With temperatures approaching 50 degrees the crew were able to repair boilers, service components and work on electronic components in a clean environment, filtered to 5 microns.
The 7.7 meter long car weighing in at three tons, takes 2.5 miles to accelerate and after the measured KM, a further 2.5 miles to decelerate with each run totaling more than 6.5 miles. For the FIA to recognise the land speed record, an average speed is taken from two consecutive runs, in opposite directions within 60 minutes of each other. Burnett reached almost 140mph on his first run and in excess of 150mph on his second.
- The International Record for a measured mile at 139.843mph
- The International Record for a measured kilometre at 148.308mph
- An American National Record for a measured mile at 139.843mph
- An American National Record for a measured kilometre at 148.308mph
- A Guinness World Record for a measured mile at 139.843mph
The entire project took ten years from its inception, consisted of 22 people and cost in excess of £650,000.
"The team has worked extremely hard over the last 10 years and overcome numerous problems. It is a privilege to be involved with such a talented crew. What we have achieved today is a true testament to British engineering, good teamwork and perseverance." Charles Burnett.
The car will be embarking on a nationwide UK tour. Dates and the cars specifications can be found at www.steamcar.co.uk.
