Noise control is again a talking point, causing a major buzz in some areas of the paddock. The introduction of a specific procedure at Sarno for the World Cup in 2012 was cut short, but this time, the process is identical to that of last year, has been approved by the relevant departments of the FIA ??and everything seems ready to introduce sanctions, when noise is more than 108 dB. The system includes four microphones hanging from the bridge that spans the track at the start. The measurements are then processed in a scholarly manner (see full article here) and values ??are assigned to each kart, if possible, at each stage, in testing, as well as during races.
The schedule of penalties for exceeding the permitted threshold of 108dB, was reiterated to the competitors at the briefing on Friday morning:
– Up to 1 dB above the limit: 3 places in qualifying or 3 seconds in a race.
– Between 1 and 2 dB above the limit: 6 places in qualifying or six seconds in a race.
– Between 2 and 3 dB above the limit: 9 places in qualifying or 9 seconds in a race
– More than 3 dB above the limit: demotion to at least last place.
It seems that many karts in KZ and KZ2 are too loud, as it is true that the subject has been sidelined since Sarno. Loss of power or overheating causes changes in the exhaust system made quickly to reduce pollution. In this regard, the work done by Vortex in 2012 still seems the most successful of the field.
However, with normal hearing and a sharp brain, you quickly notice that the circuit configuration at Wackersdorf is very noisy: a shallow bowl, surrounding trees, nearby buildings, so all the noise is difficult to handle for spectators. Does this phenomenon affect the measurements? Those responsible at the CIK are not sure, but some competitors proclaim loud and clear otherwise. Maybe some will want to shout their dissatisfaction into the microphones when passing their opponents hoping to distort the measurements …
Anyway, noise reduction is essential for the future of karting, the rule is the same for everyone and sanctions will be given. The measures will be displayed until the end of free practice, but only technical officials will be able to see them after that.
Info Kartcom with Kartlink / © Photo KSP