Prioritizing Safety: An Interview with Jochen Braunwarth, Geobrugg’s Director of Motorsport Solutions

Paddock Magazine had an exclusive conversation with Jochen Braunwarth, the Director of Motorsport Solutions at Geobrugg, a Swiss company known globally for its advanced safety systems.

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Introduction

Geobrugg, a Swiss company with over 50 years of experience, is the world leader in producing high-tensile steel wire safety nets and meshes. Their expertise, honed in protecting natural assets and safeguarding lives across various sectors, has now extended to the high-stakes world of motorsport. Today, their state-of-the-art safety systems, installed on racetracks worldwide, instill confidence in both drivers and spectators, ensuring their safety. In this interview, we delve into the details with Jochen Braunwarth, Geobrugg’s Director of Motorsport Solutions, to learn more about the company’s innovations and the challenges they face in the fast-paced world of motorsport.

Jochen, to start, could you introduce Geobrugg and its evolution into the motorsport sector?

Jochen Braunwarth: Certainly, Daniel. Geobrugg has pioneered protection systems for over 50 years, primarily focusing on natural hazards such as rockfall, slope stabilization, and avalanche barriers. Our expertise is rooted in developing solutions that manage high-energy impacts—whether that’s a falling boulder or, more recently, a racing car at high speed. About 15 years ago, we were approached by the FIA, the governing body for world motor sport, to use our test facilities and experience to evaluate  existing safety products in the market. This marked our entry into motorsport, and since then, we’ve become increasingly active in this field, bringing our extensive knowledge of impact dynamics to racetrack safety.

Geobrugg is now well-known for its motorsport safety systems. Can you tell us about the different systems you provide for racetracks?

Jochen Braunwarth: Initially, we started with permanent installations like debris fences, with our first major project at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. But it quickly became apparent that a single product wouldn’t suffice for all racetrack needs. Different tracks require different solutions; city circuits, for instance, need mobile debris fences for quick setups and teardowns. There’s also a need for robust pit wall systems. Over the years, we expanded our portfolio to provide a comprehensive suite of products and services, including consultancy, inspection services, layout design, and on-site support during race weekends. We’ve evolved into a one-stop shop, covering everything from initial consultations to post-installation services, ensuring that our clients feel secure and well-supported.

How are these safety fences tested to ensure they meet the rigorous demands of motorsport?

Jochen Braunwarth: In the early days, no testing was required and the installations were based on specifications focusing on strength. However, dealing with dynamic impacts – where energy absorption is vital – is complex and goes beyond mere calculations. One of our primary tests involves a 780 kg wrecking ball shot at 65 km/h directly at the fence. This replicates a scenario where a Formula 1 car, after a run-off, might become airborne and hit the fence. However, since race cars, not wrecking balls, are the reality on tracks, the FIA later introduced tests using a one-ton vehicle at 120 km/h with a 20-degree impact angle. The goal is to ensure that nothing breaches the three-meter safety zone between the fence and the grandstand, safeguarding spectators.

Passing the FIA homologation process sounds challenging. Can you share some insights into this?

Jochen Braunwarth: Indeed, it’s a rigorous process. Fortunately, our long history of dealing with high-energy impacts gives us an edge. All components of our systems must work together seamlessly to stop a car or wrecking ball within the required three meters without destroying the entire fence. If the fence were to be completely destroyed, it would lead to significant race delays, which is unacceptable. Therefore, part of the homologation process includes proving that our fences can be repaired quickly, within a short break between race sessions, ensuring minimal disruption. For example, during a WEC event in Spa, our system was impacted but required no repair, while a nearby guardrail took two hours to fix.

How do the requirements differ between permanent race tracks and temporary city circuits?

Jochen Braunwarth: The main difference lies in installation and dismantling speed. City circuits, like those in Chicago or Las Vegas, need to be set up and taken down quickly to minimize disruption to local traffic and residents. For example, the Chicago track for NASCAR was installed in just two weeks and dismantled in one and a half weeks. This demands precise logistics and planning. On the other hand, permanent circuits like the Hungaroring offer more time for installation, which reduces the pressure but still requires meticulous planning since our solutions are often the last to be installed before a race.

Are there any ongoing R&D efforts at Geobrugg for future developments in safety systems?

Jochen Braunwarth: We’re always striving to enhance our products. Motorsport will always involve risk, but our goal is to mitigate it as much as possible. Currently, we’re engaged in R&D to improve system performance and integrate different elements more effectively. For example, we’re exploring ways to make life easier for photographers by providing flexible openings in the fences. Moreover, we’re considering mixed reality as a tool for customers to visualize our products in real-world settings before installation. This commitment to innovation should make our audience feel optimistic about the future of racetrack safety.

What has been the biggest challenge for Geobrugg in Formula 1?

Jochen Braunwarth: One of the biggest challenges is changing mindsets, particularly at established facilities. Many have been working with the same contractors for decades, so convincing them to try something new can take time. In the U.S., for example, it took about five to six years of persistent effort to get some venues to give our solutions a chance. The resistance was mainly due to the fear of change and the belief that their existing systems were sufficient. Once they did, they saw the difference and embraced the new technology. We’re also exploring ways to make our products more relatable and easier to understand, possibly through mixed reality, to help customers visualize their future racetracks and the safety systems in place before they’re even built.

Conclusion

Innovation and a thorough understanding of impact dynamics have marked Geobrugg’s transition from natural hazard protection to motorsport safety. Jochen Braunwarth’s insights reveal the complexity and dedication behind ensuring that every racetrack is as safe as possible, allowing the thrill of motorsport to continue without compromising the safety of those involved. As Geobrugg continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, the future of racetrack safety looks both promising and secure.

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