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Obechi instead of balsa?
Folks,
I'm in the process of building a few 110-120 sized pattern airplanes. Currently working on a Black Magic 110, with a Boxer 120 sitting on the shelf waiting it's turn. I understand that normally pattern airplanes have foam core wings covered with 1/16" balsa. I have some Obechi veneer sitting in the shop, and am wondering why this material used lots for sheeting foam-core glider wings wouldn't make good sheeting for a pattern airplane. Any thoughts or ideas from more experienced folks? |
RE: Obechi instead of balsa?
Obechi is a suitable covering for foam wings. Compared to balsa, it's heavier and would be more difficult to cover with an iron-on covering. I used it years ago when I painted my wings and it worked fine. Currently, I wouldn't use it because of the weight and covering difficulties. Hope this helps!
Verne Koester ORIGINAL: LRFitch Folks, I'm in the process of building a few 110-120 sized pattern airplanes. Currently working on a Black Magic 110, with a Boxer 120 sitting on the shelf waiting it's turn. I understand that normally pattern airplanes have foam core wings covered with 1/16'' balsa. I have some Obechi veneer sitting in the shop, and am wondering why this material used lots for sheeting foam-core glider wings wouldn't make good sheeting for a pattern airplane. Any thoughts or ideas from more experienced folks? |
RE: Obechi instead of balsa?
I have some sitting on my shelf, its been there for years. I'll give Obechi the nod when it comes to strength, but as Verne pointed out covering is a pain and it does weigh a little more than light contest balsa, AND it splits. I did some speed planes wings with it and you could stand on them but the covering was difficult and as I said it would split.
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RE: Obechi instead of balsa?
Many years ago now, Hanno Prettner was selling Dalotel ARFs that had Obechi veneered foam wings. Heavy, as Verne and Pete pointed out but darned near bullet proof.
A much better choice for the same weight as Obechi is 1/64 ply. But again, the weight penalty if high in a pattern plane and the strength is not required. Except 1/64 ply has very fine grain and no covering is needed prior to paint. Two coats of nitrate seal the wood and you are ready to prime |
RE: Obechi instead of balsa?
Guys,
Thanks for the advice. I think I will use the balsa as the instructions direct. Larry Fitch |
RE: Obechi instead of balsa?
If it's any consolation, I've been using my leftover stock for years for a variety of purposes. It's great for making small shims to level mounting rails to flanges on glass parts and other such purposes where a thin shim is desired.
Verne ORIGINAL: LRFitch Guys, Thanks for the advice. I think I will use the balsa as the instructions direct. Larry Fitch |
RE: Obechi instead of balsa?
I have been using very thinly sanded Poplar with great results. I have been sanding it down to 1mm so it is not that heavy and perfect for accepting paint. I hate plastic coverings so that is why I went that direction. I do have some Obechi, but it is very open grained and would take filling to look smooth.
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