Speed Matters: Tips to Skip Emergency Pitot Pit Stops
On September 1, 2024, in blistering Texas heat, the Lone Star Le Mans (COTA) proved to be a brutal weekend for Porsche due to a series of technical issues, including a forgotten pitot probe cover that forced driver Frédéric Makowiecki to take an unexpected and costly pitstop. While this incident, fortunately, did not impact the driver’s safety, it underscores a critical yet often overlooked aspect of racing and aviation equipment management: the importance of reliable and highly visible pitot probe covers. Covers that not only protect the probe but are also easily spotted and removed by teams working at high speeds.
We know that whether you are a military pilot scrambling, or commercial ground crew trying to keep schedules running smoothly, or a literal race car driver — speed matters. Don’t let a forgotten pitot tube cover slow you down. Here are our tips to make sure you do not have to make an unexpected pit stop.
Pitot Probe Purpose
First, for those racing fans who are hearing of pitot tubes for the first time — what are these instruments? Pitot probes are devices used primarily by aircraft but also on race cars and even some watercraft. They measure pressure, but ultimately this data is used to calculate airspeed. On aircraft, pitot probes are vital to the safe functioning of flight. In the world of racing, they provide data that is analyzed by teams to better understand car performance.
Why Removal Matters
Proper removal of pitot probe covers is vital. Covers left on can be a hazard, especially for aircraft. Covers not made from heat-resistant materials can melt onto heated pitot probes, damaging them and preventing them from supplying vital data to pilots.
In the case of Makowiecki, the Porsche team likely felt the pitot probe cover was a safety risk for him and other drivers. If the cover had been knocked off the vehicle, it would have become a hazard on the track. Track hazards can cause spinouts, skids, and damage to the vehicle.
The cover also could have affected the car’s aerodynamics and performance, while blocking the probe and preventing the collection of performance data.
Tips for Preventing Pitot Cover Mishaps
- Opt for Bright Colors. Choose pitot probe covers in a vibrant color. In the aviation world, red is the standard color for covers and equipment that should be removed before flight. However, in some cases, orange or even yellow may be used. In the case of Frédéric Makowiecki, another color might be useful to provide contrast withthe red No. 5 Porsche 963.
- Use Flags. Flags can serve as additional visual reminders to teams. Consider flags that clearly indicate the cover must be removed. On aircraft, Remove Before Flight flags are standard. This text is written in large white text on red flags for optimal visibility and readability.
- Implement a Standard Removal Checklist. On large teams, the responsibility of this small task can easily be lost in the fray. Such teams should consider developing a standard removal checklist of all covers and equipment and assign responsibilities to specific individuals to avoid confusion.
- Train Your Team. Regularly train your team on the importance of cover removal. Create and reinforce procedure. Make sure everyone is aware of the potential consequences of negligence.
- Conduct Pre-Flight (or Pre-Race) Inspections. For pilots, a pre-flight checklist is non-negotiable. During this check, they look over the aircraft to ensure no covers have been left on by the ground crew, amongst other tasks.
Invest in Quality Protection & Visibility
Frédéric Makowiecki’s vehicle ultimately finished in 7th place after clawing its way back from 17th. The unplanned pit stop brought on by the forgotten pitot probe cover cost valuable seconds on the track, which ultimately negatively impacted the team’s outcome.
At Sesame Technologies, Inc., we understand the vital role that pitot probe covers play in safety, speed, and performance. Our team can help find the right pitot probe protection solution for you. We also offer on-site evaluation and training services to ensure your team is prepared and trained in proper cover installation, removal, and care procedures.
We design our covers with visibility in mind, ensuring they stand out in any setting. Our pitot probe covers are equipped with Remove Before Flight flags to ensure that they are easily seen and promptly removed. We also work with clients to provide covers and flags in additional bright colors, such as orange and yellow, to best meet their needs.
Our covers are built from superior materials for ultimate protection and long-lasting performance. If accidentally left on a heated pitot probe, they will not melt due to their construction from high-temperature materials. This feature prevents the damage inflicted by melted covers, which can block pitot probes and may result in the necessity of replacement or maintenance.
The game-changing combination of durability and visibility enables our covers to significantly boost efficiency and speed by eliminating unexpected and costly pit stops, maintenance, and accidents. Prioritize performance and unleash the full potential of your team. Invest in high-quality covers that protect your personnel, vehicle, and performance.
We know that speed matters. Because every second counts.
