![]() |
If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ by clicking the link above. You may have to register before you can post: click the register link above to proceed. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below. |
|
|
Thread Tools | Display Modes |
#18
|
|||
|
|||
![]()
Rich S. wrote:
"Lou" wrote in message ps.com... Well, maybe no sense right away, but the plans where drawn quite a while ago. Like the Emeraude, the invention of fiberglass hadn't arrived yet. Although I agree with the statement of making it as light as possible, one of the reason's for this post is to discuss weight. If this can be done with little or no weight penalty, then I thought I would consider the experimental part of this group. After all, if Tony Bingelis did it with good results, then why not consider it? I like the idea of smoother, flatter, and more solid wings. If it turns out to be 25lbs or more, then I have to re-think this or just consider going on a diet. I understand where you're coming from, Lou - having had the same dilemma myself while building the Emeraude. Fortunately we have a good builder support group who could advise me on the nuances of that particular design. Covering a wing with plywood that was originally designed for fabric and open bays, will do more than change the appearance. An aircraft designer has planned for the weight distribution (hence stress distribution) across the span and chord. Skinning the wing will change both of those. You may actually end up with a wing that is heavier, weaker and slower than before. Do not make these design changes casually. Orville and Wilbur were successful due to engineering, not trial and error. First, ask yourself "What am I intending to accomplish by doing this?" Any change requires more build time and usually more money. There can be other penalties as well. If you're into engineering and test piloting as a hobby, knock yourself out. It's your time, money and neck. Re-engineering an older design can have no limit. Look at the fiberglass version of the Beech 17 Staggerwing as an example. If you contemplate changing a fabric wing to a skinned wing, why not go carbon fiber? How about Nanotubes? ![]() Good Luck with your project! Rich P.S. The CAP-10C, the newest version of the Emeraude, now has a carbon fiber spar. Does it use that "pulltruded" carbon rod stuff for caps? That stuff is incredibly strong, far superior to carbon roving in compression and tension. John |
Thread Tools | |
Display Modes | |
|
|
![]() |
||||
Thread | Thread Starter | Forum | Replies | Last Post |
Fabric repair | D.A.L | Home Built | 0 | April 27th 04 07:17 PM |
Replace fabric with glass | Ernest Christley | Home Built | 38 | April 17th 04 11:37 AM |
Fabric Work | Doug | Home Built | 9 | January 26th 04 03:31 AM |
Need to learn dope and fabric work | David Hill | Restoration | 5 | October 9th 03 01:52 AM |
Fiberglass Tip Tanks Question | Jay Honeck | Owning | 7 | September 26th 03 04:23 AM |