Originally Posted by
doxilia
Christian,
thanks for the info. The CAD re-design looked a little hefty. I think this bird can be built to 10-11 lbs using 3/16" sides, a 1/32" lightened doubler and a 3/32" skinned deck rather than using the block balsa. The nose top can be done in a "keeled and glassed foam".
Still, at 12.5 lbs, it should be ok in terms of loading (I think it is around 1000 squares). I suspect a 120 AX might be needed for thrills but the 95 should fly it nicely and in TOC style.
David
Dave,
Have you considered building up fuse sides and other similar larger structures from 1/16" basswood ply and 1/16" balsa. Basswood ply from AS&S is reasonably priced and it can come in 4x8 foot sheets. About as light as light ply and as strong as birch a/c types. Laser out 85% of the bassply of course for a very light composite structure that stands up to DLE55 pounding. Should be fine for anything smaller and is lighter than 3/16" contest balsa. Just a tid bit