Although it is made of lightweight components and weights an overall 1200 grams, the 8860-2004 helmet can withstand some incredible forces, as explained by the FIA.
“An 8860-2004 helmet withstands an impact of 9.5m/s with deceleration of less than 300g. During fire tests, the helmet was subjected to 800°C for 30 seconds, with temperatures inside the helmet not exceeding 70°C. In addition, the visors can withstand projectiles being fired at them at high speeds.”
“The basic design consists of an exceptionally stiff and strong outer shell and an energy-absorbing inner liner. The outer shell protects the head from external penetration and has been developed to work in combination with the inner liner to provide the increased energy absorption. When the helmet hits something (or something hits the helmet) the head will continue moving inside the helmet until all the energy has been absorbed.”
“The liner’s job is to bring the head to a stop as gently as possible. This is achieved by using combinations of different density-lining materials. The outer shell of the FIA 8860-2004 helmet is designed not to deform, thus allowing maximum energy absorption of the inner liner and minimum G-forces inside the helmet.”
“The outer shell of the helmet is, typically, made up of layers of T1000 aerospace-grade carbon-fibre material, created by weaving together thousands of kilometres of micro-threads. The strength of the material is not simply about the strength of the micro-threads, but also how tightly they are woven together,” said the FIA statement.
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