Stabilizer Airfoil Questions
06-26-2002, 11:07 AM
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Stabilizer Airfoil Questions
I'm "deviating" from a quarter-scale Fly Baby kit in that I wish it to have symmetrical tail feathers, as does the full-scale aircraft. The cross section on the stab. I have made closely resembles airfoil NACA 64-012 (according to my G.P. Flight Simulator.) I'm concerned about how this airfoil will affect the plane's flying characteristics. So here's my question:
For a slow flying plane as this, would this "fatter" airfoil make the stab more sensitive the response? Ie., would a more slender airfoil be required in order to not have a "touchy" stabilizer? The main reason for changing the feathers is to bring the plane closer to scale...but at the same time, I don't want to adversely affect its ease of flying. Thanks!
For a slow flying plane as this, would this "fatter" airfoil make the stab more sensitive the response? Ie., would a more slender airfoil be required in order to not have a "touchy" stabilizer? The main reason for changing the feathers is to bring the plane closer to scale...but at the same time, I don't want to adversely affect its ease of flying. Thanks!
06-26-2002, 11:51 AM
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Stabilizer Airfoil Questions
Personally, I really like symmetrical h/stab airfoils. I like the NACA 0009, 0010 or Eppler E168. They're more complex to design & build than "slab" types but I think the smooth flying characteristics are worth the extra effort. As long as the area is the same, there will be no added "touchiness." My opinion is that "touchiness" comes from excessive elevator throw or insufficient h/stab area.
My $00.02
Milton Dickey
ps: Here's one I did recently with the E168 and it flies great!
My $00.02
Milton Dickey
ps: Here's one I did recently with the E168 and it flies great!
