electric flight uk - British Electric Flight Association - ef

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ELECTRIC FLIGHT U.K.
ISSUE No. 76 SPRING 2004
THE MAGAZINE OF THE
BRITISH ELECTRIC
FLIGHT ASSOCIATION
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Electric Flight - U.K.
Issue 76 - Spring 2004
"To Encourage and Further all Aspects of Electric Model Flight in
the British Isles and Elsewhere" - B.E.F.A. Constitution
CONTENTS
BEFA Committee 2003/4 ........................... 4
Chairman's Chatter .................................. 5
Current Lines ........................................... 6
AGM 2004 News ....................................... 6
World Championships Update ................... 7
New-2-U ................................................... 9
Mini 3D flying with LiPo cells ................... 18
Safety with LiPo batteries ........................ 22
Electric RTP ............................................ 23
A Thrust Measuring System .................... 28
Index to EF-UK Issues 60 to 76 ................ 33
World Championships Trophies Appeal .... 41
Sniff the Dope! ......................................... 43
Man Carrying Balloons & Electric Flight .. 52
KAN 1050 NiMH Cells ............................. 54
Event Calendar ....................................... 59
For Sale / Wanted ..................................... 67
New to Electric Flight? Start Here ............ 69
BEFA Sales ............................................. 70
Advertisers Index ..................................... 70
Cover Photo: On the cover this month is David Perrett’s Mini Laser 3D aerobatic
model. It features a Hacker B20-15L motor with 4:1 gearbox, a 9” x 4½” APC
Electric propeller and a Thunderpower 2000 3S1P Lithium Polymer battery pack.
See page 18 for more information.
NEXT ISSUE. The copy date for the Summer 2004 issue is 31 May 2004, with the
magazine due for publication 30th June 2004.
DISCLAIMER
B.E.F.A. and Electric Flight U.K. wish to point out that the content, techniques and opinions
expressed in this magazine are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the
views of either the Editor of this magazine or B.E.F.A. and its committee.
© All information in this magazine is copyright of the authors. Any request to use information
from this magazine is to be made to the editor (contact details overleaf).
All reasonable care is taken in the preparation and compilation of the magazine, but B.E.F.A. and
its committee cannot be held liable for any error or omission in the content of this magazine or any
subsequent damage or loss arising howsoever caused.
To allow proper appreciation of the photographs used, colour copies of them will be posted on the
B.E.F.A. website after publication of this magazine. If you can, check them out at www.befa.org.uk
E.F.-U.K.
3
BEFA Committee 2004/5
Chairman
Robert Mahoney
123 Lane End Road, High Wycombe, Bucks. HP12 4HF
EMail: befa@rlmahoney.co.uk
Secretary
Peter Turner
37 Church Street, Horsley, Derbyshire. DE21 5BQ
Email: peter@alport.fsnet.co.uk
Membership Secretary
David Andrews
2 Gainsborough Road, Kibworth Harcourt, Leicester. LE8 0SG
Email: david@kibworth.fsnet.co.uk
Treasurer
Bob Smith
1 Lynwood Avenue, Tollesby, Middlesborough, Cleveland. TS5 7PD
Email: bobsmith@ntlworld.com
EF-UK Editor
Jan Bassett
111 Plantagenet Chase, Yeovil, Somerset. BA20 2PR
Tel. 01935 472743, E-mail: editor@befa.org.uk
EF-UK Printer
Brian Boughton
'Red Roofs', Vicarage Road, Thetford, Norfolk. IP24 2LH
Events Co-ordinator
Terry Stuckey
31 Dysart Avenue, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey. KT2 5QZ
Email: terrystuckey@blueyonder.co.uk
Competition Secretary
David Beavor
34 Chestnut Close, Brampton, Huntingdon, Cambs.
Midlands Representative
Roger Winsor
14 Butler Gardens, Market Harborough, Leics. LE16 9LY
Email: Rogerwinsor7@aol.com
Northern Representative
Bob Smith, details as Treasurer
Southern Representative
Dave Chinery
251 Station Road, Hayes, Middx. UB3 4JD
Email: DavidDchinery@aol.com
South West Representative Jan Bassett, details as Editor EF-UK
Indoor & Free-Flight Rep. Gordon Tarling
87 Cowley Mill Road, Uxbridge, Middx. UB8 2QD
Email: gordon.tarling@ntlworld.com
Technical Liaison Officer
Alan Bedingham
17 Highcliffe Close, Wickford, Essex. SS11 8JZ
Email: bbba18333@blueyonder.co.uk
Public Relations Officer
Dave Perrett
10 High Lees, Sharnford, Leicester. LE10 3PW
Tel: 01455 272297, Email: d.l.perrett@btinternet.com
Webmaster
Jan Bassett, details as Editor EF-UK - (www.befa.org.uk)
Safety Adviser
Stan Rose
Tel: 01636 525029, Email: rose@elston4.freeserve.co.uk
Please enclose an SAE with all correspondence to the committee.
4
E.F.-U.K.
Chairman’s Chatter
Dear members,
We are now approaching the fourteenth year since being formed. In the last year
I have attended the Dortmund Intermodellbau, and at the BMFA AGM with Peter
Turner, promoting our Association to flyers from all flying disciplines.
This year I succeeded in getting Jean-Paul Schlösser (JePe) to come over to the
Middle Wallop event for a second time. The sights and sounds of his models said
SPEED, and in a big way! Jean-Paul said (by email) that Middle Wallop was the
best event that Team JePe had ever flown at.
Your committee is now getting ready for the round of Exhibitions that we display
our wears at, and in the organising of our Fly-Ins that have been announced on
the web site and in this issue of EF-UK. The web site is updated regularly include
the most up to date news that we have on flying events throughout the year. For
those that can’t remember the web site address it is www.befa.org.uk
Some additional news about our Middle Wallop Fly-In is that we have been granted
permission (by Lt. Col (Retd) RJ Thayer) for our weekend again this year. This is
due to your Fly-In crew leaving the airfield as we found it (or better) and the way
that David Beavor runs the flight line.
We have also been informed that JePe is attending again this year, for the third
consecutive year. If you want to see the phenomenal performance of his ducted fan
and propeller powered models, you better come along to the Middle Wallop event
this year.
Remember: You will need an “A” CERTIFICATE
to fly at a BEFA event this year.
The “A” Certificate has to be in a related discipline, i.e. any class of Fixed Wing
certificate for Fixed Wing models, and a helicopter certificate for helicopters.
I would like to thank the committee on your behalf for the hard work they have
done during the past twelve months.
You are probably aware that 2004 is the year of the Electric World Championships
to be held in the UK. The events will be held on the York Race Course over the
period 9th to 15th August. More information on the World Championships can be
found in this issue starting on pages 7 and 41.
All the best for the 2004 flying season, KEEP THE WATTS UP and SAFE FLYING!
Robert Mahoney
AGM APOLOGY
On behalf of the BEFA committee I would like to apologise to David and Will
Beavor and Gordon Whitehead for not presenting their awards at the AGM. Your
committee is updating their procedures to ensure it does not happen again.
Robert Mahoney, Chairman on behalf of the BEFA Committee
E.F.-U.K.
5
Current Lines
from the Editor
It seems like five minutes since I was editing the last issue, doesn’t time fly when
you’re having fun. I have just been re-elected as the Editor for the next 2 years so
there is plenty more to come from me.
I pass on my thanks to the contributors in this issue, but I am still struggling to
get sufficient articles for each issue. I even had to resort to writing a little myself
this time. I really have enough work to do in editing the magazine, without having
to write it as well.
Everyone reading this can contribute something, even if only
a photograph of a model and the relevant details.
All material for EF-UK should be sent to me, EF-UK Editor, at the address on
page 4. If you are in any doubt over whether to submit something, or in what
format, contact me to discuss it.
In the centre of this issue you will find an update to the index that was published
in issue 59. You will find the whole index (issues 28 to 76) on the website under
the EF-UK page. If you don’t have internet access and want a print of the whole
index, send an C5 size S.A.E. and £2 to me at the address on page 4.
Best wishes for the 2004 season, I do hope to see lots of you at the Fly-Ins.
Regards
Jan Bassett
AGM 2004 News
by Jan Bassett
There is very little of significance to report from the AGM, but the following is an
extremely short summary of the key points:
As usual half the committee officers had served their term of election. No
nomination had been received for any post, and the current incumbents were all
unanimously re-elected to serve another term.
A £1 increase in the membership subscription was agreed, making the UK
subscription £21, Europe £22 and the Rest of the World £28.
It was also suggested from the membership that the option to donate money to
the BEFA be included on the membership form. This was discussed and the
membership agreed that this was reasonable. You will therefore find a new line
added stating that any additional monies sent will be added to the BEFA funds.
The next AGM will be held at Royal Leamington Spa on 20 March 2005.
6
E.F.-U.K.
World
Championships
Update
by Bob Smith
We first announced these championships in Issue 73 of EF-UK (Summer 2003) so
this is an update of the situation regarding the organisation of the Championships.
If you wish to keep yourself up to speed with the preparations then the best
source is the website http://ewc2004.users.btopenworld.com
One of the major additions to the arrangements is the final Sunday when the
BEFA have agreed to organise a Fly-in along the same successful lines as we use
for Leamington and Middle Wallop. This will be a chance for all of our members to
say that they flew at a World Championship meeting.
Remember also that the Open and the Sunrise-Sunset events at the start of the
period are also "open" to all entries. The full programme of events is currently as
follows:Fri. 6th August
Sunrise-Sunset competition, Overall Registration
Sat. 7th to Mon. 9th
Open Events, F5B, F5D, F5F, 7-cell F5B
World Championship model processing
Mon. 9th
Opening ceremony and briefings
Tues. 10th to Sat. 14th F5B and F5D World Championship rounds
Fri. 13th
World Championship rounds, spare time (rain), Tours
Sat. 14th
Final rounds, spare time (rain), Prizegiving
Sat. 14th evening
Banquet
Sun. 15th
BEFA Electric Fly-in
Entries into the Championships are going well although the numbers are based
upon preliminary indications. At the moment, we have 12 teams of 3 flyers plus 8
individuals entered in F5B and 7 teams of 3 plus 1 individual in F5D.
E.F.-U.K.
7
These numbers are at the moment higher than those for the last championships
held in Switzerland 2002 so we are hopeful of a tremendous event.
With the whole event lasting 10 days visitors may want to stay for more than just
a day trip and if you are considering finding accommodation there is a fair range
available. The site has excellent camping/caravanning facilities immediately adjacent
to the flying area. Toilets, washing, and shower facilities are directly adjacent.
There is hostel accommodation at the Racecourse Centre (2 mins walk) and at
York University (10/15 mins drive).
A vast amount of accommodation is available in and around York. It is an historic,
walled city and is visited by many tourists in the summer months, because of this
accommodation should be booked reasonably early if visitors wish to have a good
choice.
Parking at any inner-city hotel could be a problem and competitors should check
carefully what parking is available. Out of town parking at any hotel should
present no problem but checking is advisable. Typical hotels include Holiday Inn *** (3 mins walk to flying site)
Novotel York *** (5 mins drive)
Wheatlands Hotel ** (3 mins drive)
Grimston House Hotel (10/15 mins drive)
Many local Guest Houses offer Bed & Breakfast accommodation.
Full details of all the accommodation in and around York can be found at
www.visityork.org
One last piece of information for Association members. The operation of a
Championship of this size needs a lot of manpower. Not only do we need people to
operate the courses in the form of marshals, turn judges, etc., but we need
individuals who are happy to help in the less romantic jobs like helping in
Transmitter control and in the refreshment tent.
If you are able to find time to attend the WCs for any period and you are willing to
help with the operation then we would like to hear from you. Please drop me (or
anyone else on the organising committee) a note, email, phone call, pigeon post,
or whatever. We would be very pleased to hear from you and you will have a once
in a lifetime chance to see the best electric flyers in the world from close-up.
8
E.F.-U.K.
New-2-U
A Brief Round-up of New Items of Interest.
If you are a manufacturer or retailer that has something new they want to
share with the readers, please send details to the Editor (addresses on page 4).
Announcing the new POWERMAX 40 motor from Fanfare.
Nigel Hawes (of Tucano fame) was instrumental in initiating the development of
this high wind ferrite motor. His previous experience with the Fanfare 20 turn
motor and the 3.33:1 MPJ gearbox was assessed "as good as the brushless motor"
that he had used with the model.
In collaboration with Glyn Ward (Fanfare's motor maker) the possibility of a
ferrite motor, without the gearbox, equalling the brushless motor, was explored.
The 40 turn Powermax is the result - Probably the first "buggy" motor DESIGNED
for electric flight.
Sample test figures:Cells
Propeller
RPM
Amps
7
11" x 8½"
5600
25A
8
11" x 5½"
7200
25A
10
9" x 6"
9500
25A
All figures are DIRECT DRIVE!
“The buggy motor that thinks it's
a brushless", the POWERMAX 40
turn motor is obtainable from:Fanfare,
18 Hillside Road,
Tankerton,
Whitstable,
Kent.
CT5 3EX.
Tel: 01227 771331.
Email: john.swain1@virgin.net
Website: www.fanfare.f9.co.uk
Price £38.00 +P&P
E.F.-U.K.
9
Fancy something unusual, then the GWS Merlin (aka Magician) could be for you.
The EPS350C powered version is shown above, and it is also available in a slightly
smaller IPS version (shown below). Both versions are colour printed on both
sides , come complete with the relevant power system and feature rudder, elevator
and throttle control.
Order No.
GW/MAGICIAN-IPS
GW/MAGICIAN-EPS350C
Length
94 cm (37.0”)
105 cm (41.3”)
Hat (Wing) Span
42 cm (16.5”)
46 cm (18.1”)
Hat Area
13.9 dm2 (215 sq. in.)
16.6 dm2 (257 sq.in.)
Flying Weight
170 - 250 g
(6.0 - 8.8 oz.)
280 - 330 g
(9.9 - 11.6 oz.)
Hat Loading
12 - 18 g/dm2
(4 - 6 oz./sq. ft.)
17 - 20 g/dm2
(5½ - 6½ oz./sq. ft.)
Power System
IPS
EPS350C
Propeller
8” x 4.3” or 8” x 6”
10” x 4.7” or 9” x 7”
Min. Battery
6 or 7 300 mAh NiMH
7 AAA 730 mAh NiMH
10
E.F.-U.K.
Model Airplane Engineering have
recently introduced the Nemesis 3D-II.
It is a simple, yet sophisticated, confinedarea, highly manoeuvrable park flyer.
Suitable for both indoor and outdoor
flying, the N3D-II is not a beginner’s
plane but is suitable for intermediate to
advanced flyers. The model & kit feature:
Premium laser cut balsa & ply.
Ultra light & designed for strength
Interlocking construction for “goof
proof” assembly
Carbon Tube thru-the-wing fuselage
“backbone”
Full-size CAD drawn plans
Picture enhanced instruction book
Flexible brushed and brushless
power options
Alternate servo mounting locations
Excellent flight characteristics
Span:
27” (69 cm)
Area:
200 sq. in. (12.9 dm2)
Weight:
4½ - 6½ oz. (128 - 184g)
Motors:
IPS-DXA-D,
M100,
PJS-300,
Razor,
Astro Flight 010
Batteries: 2S E-tec 700mAh Li-Poly,
2S Kokam 340mAh Li-Poly,
3S Kokam 340mAh Li-Poly
Price:
$43.95 + P&P
Website:
www.m-a-e.com
Email:
M-A-E@att.net
The MAE on-line ordering system will
only work for the USA, other orders have
to be by email.
E.F.-U.K.
11
Above is the Graupner MICRO STAR 400 (Part No. 4441), a miniature electric
helicopter which boasts all the performance and handling of much larger models.
The MICRO STAR 400 can be flown in quite strong winds without problems, in
spite of its diminutive size. The flight time in Graupner’s experience is around 15
minutes under normal conditions with the recommended LiPo battery. The roll,
pitch and collective pitch controls are mechanically mixed, so the model can be
flown using a simple 4 channel radio (motor & collective coupled using a Y-lead).
A transmitter with helicopter functions offers advantages. The model's strong,
lightweight chassis consists of nylon components, while the tail boom, boom braces
and skids are made of anodised aluminium. The tail rotor is driven by means a
single-stage gearbox with an integral auto-rotation freewheel via a ball-raced carbon
fibre shaft. The instructions are in German, English and French and the model is
largely factory-assembled with pre-fitted motor and a decal sheet. The MICRO
STAR 400 is supplied in a cardboard box (with carrying handle), which can later
be used transport the model (after removing the main rotor blades).
Dimensions (LxHxW, no rotors)
Main / tail rotor ø
Flight weight
Gear ratios Main/Tail
58 x 20.5 x 9 cm
63 / 14 cm
495 g
13.2:1 / 4:1
Also recently introduced is an NH90 body shell expansion kit for the JetCat
mechanics (shown below) which features 4-bladed main and tail rotor assemblies,
which are available separately for your own scale projects. The NH90 kit is intended
to represent the Combat SAR version and includes vacuum-moulded bodywork
components and dummy GRP auxiliary fuel tanks (The drop tanks are designed
to be installed permanently, but can be made jettisonable by radio).
12
E.F.-U.K.
Left and below is the Graupner
Mosquito, a miniature model
for 250 motors are 2 to 3 LiPo
cells of about 240 mAh capacity.
It is a quick build kit
consisting of ready-made
Span
58 cm
parts & linkage hardware
pack. The wing is solid
Area
4.3 dm2
balsa machined to airfoil
Weight
90g
section, while the fuselage
Rudder, Elevator &
is based on a vacuumthrottle control
moulded top section with
integral canopy.
The kit contains instructions in German, English & French. One-piece profilemachined wing of lightweight solid balsa. Die-cut sheets for fuselage / tail parts,
vacuum-moulded fuselage top, small items, decal sheet, linkage hardware pack.
Left and above is the
Graupner Nemesis (seems
to be a popular name). It
is virtually a scale model
of the original American
F1 racing aircraft. The model comes out of the packaging as a one-piece moulding.
The power and RC systems are installed via the removable fuselage top section,
and a tailor-made well is provided for each component. Finishing just means
applying the decals, producing a beautiful micro RC model which even makes an
eye-catching decoration on a shelf in the living room.
Dimensions:
Span 45 cm, Area 3.54 dm2, Weight 120g
Controls:
Ailerons, Elevator & Speed Controller.
E.F.-U.K.
13
This page shows the 3 variants of the
Ikarus Shock Flyers range of profile 3D
aerobatic models.
The Shock Flyers come in three versions,
"Super Star" (red & white - top left),
"Extra 330S" (red & white - middle right)
and "Edge 540" (blue & white - bottom
right). The top right picture shows the
kit contents for the Super Star model.
These are lightweight foam models with
carbon fibre reinforcement. Equip them
the way thy recommend for EXTREME
performance: hand launch is a release to
a wild climb; knife-edge loops - wild
aerobatics that you hope you can keep
up with.
Kits come pre-printed with colourful
graphics and only require a few hours to
assemble. Glue and hinge tape included.
Have good instructions with drawings
and photos.
Flight times exceed 15 minutes with
Lithium batteries. You could fly these
planes on a standard 4 channel radio but
it is recommend the radio has mixing
functions, exponential, and end point adjustments for much better control.
Kit come with a specifically designed 3D geared motor (300 size), CAD/CAM designed
propeller and more than enough power for hovering & vertical climbs. A lower
priced alternative kit is available without the power system
Developed for the latest generation in Lithium-Polymer batteries, but can also be
used with 7 x 350 mAh AA NiCd cells.
Span is 31½” (80cm), wing area: 225 sq. in. (14.5 dm2) and weight 8 oz. (225g).
14
E.F.-U.K.
Two new models brought
out by Aero-Naut are
improved versions of
models previously sold by
Ikarus.
The “Twinspeedy” (top electric powered) and the
“Sailspeedy” (glider).
Twinspeedy is an electric
glider that is highly
prefabricated and consists
of high-density foam
parts.
Additional strengthening
members from carbon
fibre in the fuselage and
carbon fibre spars in the
wing produce a very
strong airframe.
They is designed for three-axis control (ailerons, elevator, rudder) plus speed control
for the Twinspeedy. They offer superb flying characteristics and straightforward
handling thanks to its low weight and V-tail.
The Twinspeedy is designed to accept 2 Race 400 (Speed 400) electric motors and
Günther propellers. They operate in pusher mode and are very effective, giving
the model a high airspeed with good pushing power. Battery of 6 to 7 cells provide
a powerful climb performance to bring the model up to thermal-hunting altitude.
The model is equally capable of impressive high-speed passes.
Wing Span: 121 cm (47.6”), Area 17 dm2 (264 sq. in.) and a weight of 730 to 780g
(25.7 to 27.5 oz.) for the Twinspeedy and around 350g (12.3 oz.) for the Sailspeedy.
The kit (shown below) is supplied as Styrofoam fuselage, wing and tail parts and
hardware pack. The “Twinspeedy” additional requires the 2 motors. The
E.F.-U.K.
recommended price for both versions is • 79.90 (approx. £55).
15
9” x 4½” APC Electric prop. I had also indulged in a Thunderpower 2000 3S1P
Lithium Polymer Following the success of his previous title, Andrew Gibbs has
now released a new 44 page User Friendly Guide covering NiCd and NiMH batteries.
The guide retains the same handy A5 size format, is clearly written and easy to
understand. It covers a wide range of topics including charging, discharging,
current limits, testing & maintenance, memory effect and much more besides.
Four useful charging graphs are also featured. The guide will prove useful to any
modeller using batteries from beginner to expert.
The User Friendly Guide to Nickel Cadmium and Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries
is available from leading retailers or direct from Andrew. Cheques for £6.75
(including P&P) should be sent to:
Tel:
Email:
16
Andrew Gibbs, 14 Atherley Court, Hill Lane, Southampton, SO15 7NG
07973 627 738
mrandrewgibbs@yahoo.com
E.F.-U.K.
Recently released by Buzzflight are 2 new electric control line models for more
experienced pilots.
First is the Hummingbird
AEROBATIC Kit, with a
645mm (25") wingspan. This is
the model for those who already
fly I/C aerobatic control-line or
those who have trained on the
Junior or Intermediate
Hummingbird and want to add
to their flying skills! It flies on
6 m (20 ft.) lines. Requires a
12V Sealed Lead Acid Battery
(SLAB) and a 6V SLAB linked
in series. The pilot carries the
batteries in a small haversack
(not supplied) when flying.
The Buzzflight Hummingbird AEROBATIC
Kit contents: CNC cut parts in balsa and plywood, electric motor (direct 400
series), Günther propeller, undercarriage wire, wheels, control line / power wire,
on-off switch, all electrical connectors, sundries, building instructions, full size
plan of the model and the control line handle, price £39.99 + £2.95 P&P. If you
have a Buzzflight control line set-up with 6m lines, an alternative kit is available
without these for £34.99 + £2.95 P&P.
Second is the Hummingbird
FIGHTING, which utilises the same
wing configuration as the Aerobatic
Hummingbird but with a profile
fuselage. It will be interesting to see
what Combat competitors will do with
this little speedster.
With the added dynamic of the on/off
switch to slow down the model
(unheard of with I/C powered models),
new fighting tactics will surely be
developed.
The Buzzflight Hummingbird FIGHTING
The kit contents, options are prices
are the same as for the Hummingbird
AEROBATIC.
More information on these and the models in the Buzzflight range is available at
www.buzzflight.co.uk Contact them by email at sales@buzzflight.co.uk on
telephone 01332 601 693 or by mail at 167 Duffield Road, Derby, DE22 1AJ.
E.F.-U.K.
17
Mini 3D flying with LiPo cells
by Dave Perrett
My main electric flying has been with Electroslot models, but I have built and
flown the Pico-Jet, an electric Lazy Bee and David Theunissen's Bubbles (the plan
downloaded from his website). The last three have flown well enough but have
not been capable of 3D flight which the Americans in particular seem to have
perfected with electric models, but I had not come across anything suitable.
However at a trade show I came across the Mini-Laser 3D. It has a 31 in. wing
span, 551 sq. in. of wing area and a net weight of about 10 oz. (you can see how
old I am because I have to convert everything to pre-decimal figures - Editor: for
the younger readers, span 79 cm, area 35.5 dm2 and weight 285g).
It can be bought ready built or as a kit. Surprisingly the kit is manufactured in
Belgium. At the trade show the kit was on offer second hand but untouched at
£40. It comes complete with a 300 motor, 3.75:1 gearbox, propeller and a very
complete manual. Colin Prior was at the show and told me it flies quite well on
the standard motor and 7 Sanyo 500AR cells.
I had noticed that Hacker's advert suggested using the Hacker B20-15L brushless
motor and 4:1 gearbox for this model. I already had the motor so money changed
hands rapidly at the show for the kit.
18
The new motor mount for the Hacker B20 - 15L and gearbox
E.F.-U.K.
On getting home I examined the kit. The CNC cutting is superb. I defy anyone to
cut out the relatively small tags and slots with a modelling knife to anything like
the same precision. Everything slots together perfectly and can be secured with a
few spots of cyano. The standard motor simply screws to the front bulkhead. I
was able to fabricate a thin ply mount for the Hacker (photo on previous page)
which can be attached by the same screws making it simple to swap motors.
Having completed the model in fairly quick time I was unable to try it out until
this month (March). I wanted to check it out with the standard motor and seven
cells To my amazement it took off quite rapidly from our grass strip, thanks
probably to the sheep who had chewed the grass to bowling green level. Then
disaster! The model was all over the place with a pronounced radio problem. You
can imagine how pleased I was to get it down again after 20 secs. more by luck
than judgement..
I took it home , changed the receiver, the crystals and rerouted the flight battery
leads away from the receiver. Unfortunately in doing so I had to move the battery
pack back which meant adding some lead to the front of the motor-you can see it
crudely attached with tape in the photo.
The original 300 motor and gearbox, with taped on ballast
Back to the field and try again. This time it flew perfectly and was capable of loops
and rolls but lacked the power to climb vertically and the flight time was less than
3 mins., even with reduced throttle from time to time. So, time to try the Hacker.
Home again, in with the Hacker and a 9” x 4½” APC Electric prop. I had also
indulged in a Thunderpower 2000 3S1P Lithium Polymer (LiPo) battery. As you
will be aware you cannot charge LiPos with a standard NiCd / NiMH charger.
E.F.-U.K.
19
Fortunately I have a Schulze 330d charger which I was able to upgrade to the
latest version, which will cope with LiPos. Heeding all the warnings I carefully
set it up to charge outside my shed and in a safe location where I could observe it
from the kitchen window. Nothing burst into flames and I installed it in the battery
tray under the wing.
The battery tray on the underside of the Mini Laser 3D
The battery pack is capable of pulling 6C, i.e. 6 times 2000 mAh = 12A. The 9” x
4½” was pulling about 11A at full throttle so that should be no problem.
So back to the field. The Mini Laser leapt into the air and climbed vertically. I am
sure it will be capable of hovering but I shall need lots of practice. Thunderpower
suggest the first flight should be limited to six minutes which was when I brought
her in. The battery was barely warm and it only took about 60 mAh to restore it
to full charge. I had two more flights of about five to six minutes without
recharging but with only intermittent full throttle. At the end there was no apparent
loss of power and the battery was still barely warm . It only took about 80 mAh to
restore it to full charge.
I am using the Hacker Master 18-3P speed controller which has no facility for
altering the cut-off point to 2.5V/cell, below which Li-poly cells should not be
taken on load (3V per cell when not on load). I have a Kontronik Jazz controller
which has this facility but which is too large to fit comfortably into this model.
It means I shall have to adopt an American practice to limit my flight times, but
so far experience suggests that with my style of flying I could fly comfortably for
ten to twelve minutes without problems.
20
E.F.-U.K.
I am chuffed to bits with the Mini-Laser in this set up. I am sure it can do all that
anyone could require of it. My brief flights so far have been in pretty calm weather
but it should cope in reasonable wind conditions. Throttled back it can be flown
in a pretty small space but with full throttle it is quite fast and can do with a bit
of space. Small enough to sling complete in the back of a car but do take care of
that battery pack!! It is also a pretty model as I think the accompanying photos
should show.
E.F.-U.K.
21
Safety with LiPo Batteries
by Jan Bassett
Despite what a number of people may tell you Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries
are not fundamentally unsafe, but they need to be treated with more care than
NiCd or NiMH. If abused sufficiently LiPo cells can catch fire and this fire can be
difficult to extinguish. The following precautions should help you enjoy using
LiPo batteries without having a major incident.
The minimum safe discharge voltage is 2.5V per cell when under load, or 3.0V
per cell when not on load.
When more than 2 cells in series are used, a controller with an adjustable
cutout should be used and it should be set at or above 2.5V/cell.
Only charge LiPo batteries on a charger specifically design for LiPo batteries.
Always ensure you use the correct charging voltage for the cell count.
The maximum charge rate should be 1C, e.g. 0.7A for a 700 mAh cell. For best
charging, low charge rates should be used where possible.
Check the charge voltage (or cell count) and current a second time.
Never leave charging LiPo batteries unattended (at any charge rate).
It is best to charge LiPo cells in an open space on a non-flammable surface
(such as a brick or quarry tile) and away from flammable materials.
For long term storage it is recommended that cells are fully charged and then
discharged to between 50% and 60% of their capacity.
Use connectors that can not be short circuited, or use silicon fuel tube to
protect exposed connections.
Have a dry powder fire extinguisher or a bucket of dry sand within reach.
If a pack is involved in a crash or is otherwise damaged:
Remove the pack from the model.
Inspect the pack for damage to the wiring or connections.
If necessary, disassemble the pack and dispose of any damaged cells.
Disposal of LiPo batteries:
Put the pack in a safe open area and connect a moderate resistance across
the c ell terminals until the cell is completely discharged.
CAUTION: The pack may get extremely hot during the discharge.
Puncture the plastic envelope and immerse in salt water for several hours.
22
E.F.-U.K.
Electric RTP
by Simon Chaddock
"That's not flying - it's just an electric motor whizzing round on the end of a wire".
Well yes it is, but it can be so much more. Let me explain.
I started investigating electric RTP nearly 30 years ago because I want to fly
when I wanted rather than when the fickle UK weather allowed and as I didn't
live in a baronial hall I needed models that could be flown in a normal living i.e.
lines of 6' or even less!
Flying on such short lines means that unless you fly pretty slowly the radial
forces become significant and these forces make it very hard to fly much above the
height of the centre pylon unless you have a lot of lift & power.
To make matters worse if you speed up to generate the lift, the radial forces go up
as well. So for successful flight on short lines I reasoned you needed small, light,
control line electric RTP models.
Obviously this makes the centre pylon mechanism a bit more complicated but on
the plus side slow and controlled flying is, for the most part, very gentle on the
models. In fact from a design point of view their construction is more like full size
practice in that you try to make things strong enough to handle the flight loads
but any stronger is just excess weight. In small model sizes this is actually quite
difficult to do and requires much ingenuity to find light construction methods
that are sufficiently rigid.
The final element is gearing. Small (~1 oz. / 28g) electric motors tend to have a
high 'maximum power' speeds so gearing is necessary on even a small 6" propeller.
So what did I end up with? A scale 'display cabinet' quality model but one that flies
as well!
The Fokker Triplane
The Fokker DR-1 Triplane
E.F.-U.K.
23
The triplane was just about the ultimate design for a compact aeroplane built
around a big engine. It has a generous wing area for its span, proper cantilever
wings (no rigging!) and a huge propeller! Just about perfect for a short line model.
This 16" (405 cm) span, 2¼ ounce (64g) model is built to scale both inside and out
(1mm (0.04”) round balsa for the fuselage steel tubing) with bungee (elastic cotton)
sprung undercarriage and tail skid.
The control surfaces are separate and are
correctly cabled (with sewing cotton) to the
stick and rudder pedals in cockpit. Of course
only the elevator is free to move so the control
line bell crank is simply linked to the stick,
the cotton cables do the rest. Pretty cool!
The motor is geared 2.5:1 to a scale (in both
diameter and pitch) carved balsa propeller and
as a final touch the nine cylinder Oberursel
inside the cowling goes round with it!
The nose section & dummy motor
Just to complete the picture it also flies very
well and can 'hang on its prop' just like the
original. And yes, control line RTP is gentle.
This most delicate of models was built in 1969,
flown at that year's Model Engineer Exhibition
in London and its still flies 34 years on!
The Martin Baker MB5
Not many people are even aware that Martin Baker (of ejection seat fame) built
aircraft. Their final design was an impressive looking fighter with short broad
wings and a Rolls Royce Griffon turning a 6-blade contra-rotating propeller.
24
The Martin Baker MB5
E.F.-U.K.
Clearly this could not be scale construction but to look right it had to be all sheet
covered (except the elevator and rudder which were fabric covered on the original!).
The fuselage consists of 1/32 (0.8mm) planking over 'skeleton' frames. The wing is
similar with 1/32 sheet ribs. The balsa wing spar was really only required for
construction as the skin takes all the loads.
Double curve planking in such thin sheet is not for the faint hearted but the final
result looks great and is remarkably strong and light. With two motors, one for
each prop, this 24" (61cm) span models still weighs only 4½ ounces (128g) all up.
Compared to the Triplane it
flies quite fast (only about
12 mph but on 6’ lines it
feels fast) It is also
remarkable noisy as the
hollow sheet monocoque
acts as a sounding board for
the gears, it sounds like a
turboprop. It certainly turns
a few heads.
The Contra-Rotating drive system of the MB5
Of course landing requires
great care just to keep all
those blades clear of the
ground. I have recently
added springing to the
undercarriage to ease the
landing shocks but never
the less the MB5 is now over
25 years old!
Not all my models are as complex, here are just a few:
A sort of Liberator.
It looks very
impressive in the
air but has to be
stored carefully to
ease the load on
the wings.
Each of its four
motors weighs
more than the
whole airframe!
E.F.-U.K.
25
The sort of Liberator
Flying Brick.
For a display I gave at a local school I designed this twin-engined transport to
carry a full size house brick (or rather a very light replica) and drop it in flight. A
3rd motor works the rear door and the full span flaps. The rear view shows its
cavernous interior.
Fairy Gannet
A model built for carrier deck landing. By careful selection of the arrestor system
it is possible within the space of a 8 foot 'deck' marked out on the floor, to land &
pick up the wire, stop, let the wire pull the model back to the start, drop the wire
and take off again. It's very impressive!
Electric RTP has not been my only form of aeromodelling but over the years, I
have had great fun designing, building and flying many different types. Of course
I have had my fair share of failures but I hope this encourages people to have a go.
Unfortunately I do not prepare any detailed construction plans for these models
however I will try to answer any queries. My email address is
simon_chaddock@hotmail.com
26
E.F.-U.K.
E.F.-U.K.
27
A Thrust Measuring System
by Malcolm Mackenrick
This is based on the design shown by Bob Smith in his talk at the last BEFA
Technical Workshop.
The only modification I have built in is to have the horizontal bar variable in
length. This allows the horizontal bar to be adjusted so that it is the same length,
from the pivot, as the height of the propeller(s) above the pivot. Thus the thrust
reading given on the scale does not need to be compensated for the length difference
as the scale reads true trust.
The inner arm can be a solid bar or a tube if it is sufficiently rigid. Each of the
rods must be sufficiently strong to withstand the maximum thrust you want to
measure without any significant deflection.
Whatever the bend the weight of the model moves relative to the axle and this will
affect the result, if the is too large the error can be significant. The outer tube is
best cut at the end to allow it to clamp the inner rod without too much force.
Above and Top Right: Drawings of the Thrust Testing Rig (drawn by Jan Bassett)
28
E.F.-U.K.
The drawing shows a “penny” washer at the end so that the distance from the
pivot can be set accurately. If using a tube it is best filled with a car body filler or
epoxy and micro-balloons. A hole is drilled in the end a self tapping screw inserted.
Immediately Above and Overleaf: Models being tested
E.F.-U.K.
29
The model mounting platform has 4 hooks at the lower corners and a length of
bungee cord is thread through. This allows the model to be very easily strapped
on to the platform. If a large number of “turns” of cord are used there should be
no excessive pressure on the model. Some foam padding can also be affixed to the
platform to prevent damage to the lower sides of the model.
If the scales move too much during the test, the weight of the model will again
move relative to the axle. Therefore it is recommended to use an electronic scale
as they move a minimal amount when the load is applied. These also have the
advantage of a settable zero point (tare) which means that you don’t have to use
a counterbalance or deduct the initial weight displayed. Ideally the arm be horizontal
as it rests on the scales.
The main axle is suspended at each end by a ball race, which must have relatively
low friction or it will affect the results. If the ball races you have are packed with
thick grease this will need to be soaked out before use. If you wish a light oil can
be used to prevent rust, as long is it doesn’t thicken.
The easiest way to get the horizontal distance the same as the vertical is to tie a
piece of cord around the axle. The slider clamp is released and the string is held
upright and the position of the thrust line marked (with your fingers). The string
is then laid flat and the slider adjusted to the same position and the clamp tightened.
It is wise to put a block under the rear of the horizontal arm to prevent the whole
thing tipping backwards if knocked, and potentially dinging the tail of the model.
30
E.F.-U.K.
E.F.-U.K.
31
MAIL ORDER MODEL SUPPLY
GOLD PLUGS Ideal for Speed 400/600
2mm plug 75p; cuts into two giving one plug/socket
2mm solder socket 43p. 2mm plug and a 2mm socket £1.15
Lightweight 2mm plug and socket 55p; Max 15A motor current draw
Spares. 2mm light plug 40p. 2mm light socket 20p
Pack of red/black shrink: 3.2mm or 4.8mm 50p
GOLD PLUGS 600 or larger motor
4mm plug 90p; cuts into plug/socket. Very low resistance
4mm hollow plug and a separate 4mm solder socket £1.15
Spares. 4mm hollow plug 85p. 4mm solder socket 43p
Lightweight 4mm plug and socket 75p; Max motor current 35A suggested
Spares. 4mm light plug 55p. 4mm light socket 25p
Pack of red/black shrink: 6.4mm £1.25: 4.8mm 75p
Providing that you bear in mind the suggested amp ratings all the 2mm and 4mm plugs are
interchangeable. All fit any of the same size.
EXTRA FLEXIBLE WIRE. 0.5mm2, 129 strands, Max 10A, 35p/metre
Red or Black or White. Park Flyers etc. or servo extensions.
EXTRA FLEXIBLE WIRE
Supplied in packs of 1 metre of red and 1 metre of black, i.e. 2 metres of wire
0.75mm2, 196 strands; ideal for weight saving, Max 15A, £1.00/pack
1.00mm2, 258 strands; ideal for weight saving for speed 400, Max 19A, £1.40/pack
1.50mm2, 378 strands; ideal for speed 400, £2.00/pack
4mm2, 1036 strands; £3.50/pack
SILICONE INSULATED WIRE. Pack of 1 metre of red and 1 metre of black
1.5mm2, 378 strands. £2.50
2.5mm2, 651 strands. £3.00
All wire can be cut off the roll, in longer lengths if required.
CELL HEATSHRINK metre lengths
25mm 50p; suits single AAA or AA cells or any same size
48mm 75p; suits single sub C cells/sticks or packs of dumpy 600
65mm 85p; suits 1700 or 2000 packs, also RC oblong sticks etc.
94mm 95p; suits double deck packs (1700 etc.)
All sizes layflat width, supplied in clear. 48mm available in opaque blue also.
WIRE HEATSHRINK metre lengths
1.6mm 50p; 2.4mm 60p; 9.5mm £1.00. Black only
3.2mm 75p; 4.8mm 80p; 6.4mm 95p. All in red or black.
ALL ORDERS PLUS POSTAGE: 60p UK; £1.10 Europe; £1.70 World
M. E. DONKIN, 37 WYDALE ROAD, OSBALDWICK, YORK, YO10 3PG
Tel/Fax 01904 414738. Mobile 0771 202 8329.
E-mail: michael@moms63.freeserve.co.uk
All messages - an attempt will be made to contact you. (I work shifts)
Computer faxes must send start signal before my fax will respond!
32
E.F.-U.K.
Index of EF-UK Issues 60 to 76
Originally compiled by Maurice Brett & updated by Jan Bassett
The BEFA and EF-UK is indebted to Maurice Brett for the many hours which
he devoted to compiling the original index for the benefit of all our members.
We hope Please note that many back issues of the magazine are no longer
available - please see the current issue of EF-UK for the latest list.
If you specifically require an article from a back issue that is unavailable, then
a re-print of the article MAY by contacting the Editor EF-UK using the contact
details in the latest EF-UK or via email at editor@befa.org.uk
Subject
Title
Author(s)
Issue Pages
Aerial Photography
Aerial Photography follow-up
Franz Stockinger
67 24 - 27
Aerial Photograpy - My Way
John Price
75 53 - 59
EPPRA - Electric Powered Photo Recce Aircraft
Don Stanley
65 53 - 54
ROCCA - Remote Control Camera Carrying Aircraft
Mike Pitchers
71 72 - 76
Airships
MB-1 Blimp
Dick Comber
65 27 - 33
Batteries
KAN 1050 NiMH Cells
Jan Bassett
76 54 - 55
New Cells Tested
The Editor
60 62
Non-rechargeable Lithium Cells & Park Flyers
Dick Comber
68 16 - 17
Sanyo Nickel Metal Hydride Cells analysed
Gordon Tarling
63 37 - 43
BEFA General
AGM 2000 Report
Bob Smith
63 06 - 07
AGM 2001 Report
Bob Smith
65 15 - 16
AGM 2002 Report
Bob Smith
68 07 - 09
AGM 2003 News
Jan Bassett
72 06 - 07
AGM 2004 News
Jan Bassett
76 06
BEFA / EF-UK Survey Results
BEFA Committee
61 66 - 70
Index of EF-UK Issue 60 to 76
Maurice Brett & Jan Bassett
76 33 - 40
Survey Results
The Editor
60 10
Your New Techie
Alan Bedingham
68 10 - 11
Book Reviews
Last Talons of the Eagle by Hyland & Gill
Eddie Wild
60 21 - 22
Building Techniques
Experimenting with alternative Modelling Materials
John Norman
65 18 - 20
Gravity, the Enemy
Eric Leadley
63 56 - 57
Sniff the Dope!
David Theunissen
76 43 - 51
E.F.-U.K.
33
Building Techniques (continued)
Wing Stress
Competitions
BEFA League 1999
BEFA League 2003
BEFA Leagues 2000 - Results
BEFA Leagues 2001 - Report
BEFA Leagues 2002 - Report
BEFA Leagues 2003
Electric World Championships
Electroslot League, Middle Wallop 2001, Report
Fun-Fly Competition Idea
Rules for Electroslot and E400 league - 2001 Season
Stand-off Scale Electric
World Championships Trophy Appeal
World Championships Update
Ducted Fan Models
EDF - The Way Ahead!
EF-UK
EF-UK Index - Part 2
Electrics
Automatic Battery Discharger Design
Measurement of high values of electric current
Simple Current-Measuring Shunt
Electronics
Measuring In-flight Prop & Gearbox performance - Pt 1
Measuring In-flight Prop & Gearbox performance - Pt 2
Multi-Outlet Trickle Charger - building project
Fly-In
Aspach 1999, Adventure to
Bath SpaRCS Colerne Electric Fly-In 2002
Bath SpaRCS Electric Fly-In 2001 at Colerne Airfield
Blackpool & Fylde 1999
BMFA Northern Area / Pandas Fly-In 2003
BMFA Northern Area Indoor Fly-In
BMFA Southern Area 2000
34
E.F.-U.K.
Neil Stainton
72
33
The Editor
Dave Perrett
The Editor
Bob Smith
Bob Smith
Dave Perrett
Dave Perrett
David Perrett
Bob Smith
John Brinkler
John Bowerman
Robert Mahoney
Dave Chinery
Bob Smith
Bob Smith
60
73
64
65
67
70
72
75
73
66
72
64
61
76
76
75 - 76
74 - 75
35 - 36
16 - 17
18 - 19
62 - 63
32
31 - 35
50 - 51
56 - 63
28 - 31
30 - 35
32 - 38
41 - 42
07 - 08
Chris Golds
69
13 - 19
Maurice Brett
60
63 - 68
Jan Bassett
Nick Fitton
John Bunting
63
67
63
44 - 45
08 - 13
23 - 24
Don Stanley
Don Stanley
Ed Martin
62
63
60
59 - 63
46 - 50
51 - 53
Gordon Tarling
Jan Bassett
Jan Bassett
John Norris
John Thompson
John Thompson
Andy Palmer
Eddie Cowes
Jan Bassett
61
70
67
60
75
73
63
67
69
10 - 25
52 - 59
20 - 23
57 - 61
48 - 51
44
53 - 55
32 - 35
57 - 60
Fly-In (continued)
Inter-Ex 1999 - Nederweert (14th)
Steve Webb
Inter-Ex 2000 - Ostrach
Steve Webb
Leamington Spa 1999
The Editor
Middle Wallop 2001
John Brinkler
Middle Wallop 2003
Jan Bassett
NEAT Fair 2000
John Anderson
NEAT Fair 2001
John Anderson
NEAT Fair 2002
John Anderson
NEAT Fair 2003
John Anderson
North London Electric Open Day
Brian Boughton
Phoenix MFC All Electric Fly-In 2002
Andy McQuat
Pillerton Hersey 2000 - the Millenium Year
Robin Andrew
Pillerton Hersey 2001
Robin Andrew
Pillerton Hersey Fly-In 2003
Robin Andrews
Porz Scale Weekend 2002
Brian Lawrence
Traunreut 2002
David Theunissen
Various 2000 - Millenium Roundup - Colour
The Editor
Wizard Prang! (Dambusters event)
David Chinery
Woburn Abbey Fly-In 2003
Jan Bassett
Helicopters
Piccolo, Living with the
John Jackson
Indoor Flying
Flying in Indy
Rom Muryn
Internet
On-Line Scene
The Editor
Meetings
BEFA Technical Workshop 2000
Dave Chinery
BEFA Technical Workshop 2001
Bob Smith
Dortmund 2000 Über Ales!
Dave Chinery
Meters
Thrust Measuring System
Malcolm Mackenrick
Miscellaneous
Diary of 2 complete beginners' and a beautiful summer
Nick Chudley
Electric Conversion, An
John Norman
Proposed Silent Flight "A" Test for Electric Gliders
Robert Mahoney
Model Kits
Blue Max, The
John Stennard
Chorus Gull - conversion to Electric
Trevor Hewson
Electro Arco-Wotto
Ray Donno
E.F.-U.K.
60
64
60
66
74
64
67
71
75
74
70
65
68
75
70
69
61
73
74
26 - 34
21 - 23
15
29 - 45
63 - 66
08 - 12
59 - 69
54 - 61
36 - 45
45 - 56
13 - 19
13 - 14
49 - 50
22 - 26
21 - 25
42 - 56
39 - 46
52 - 62
67 - 69
72
17 - 22
73
38 - 40
60
56
64
67
65
25 - 29
46 - 51
06 - 10
76
28 - 31
75
74
64
17 - 21
25 - 28
05 - 07
72
70
70
64 - 65
41 - 46
50 - 51
35
Model Kits (continued)
Elipstik from Modelair-Tech
F.F.X. Park Fighter
Fokker D VII from Foamworks - Part 1
IFO Mk 3 Review
Little Hornet - Review
Modification to a DB Electric Moth
Mouse by Andrea Braun Modelltecknik - Review
Mouse Reviews
Multiplex Cargo Review
Need a handy, tough little Park Flyer? Join the Cub!
RBS Kits Microbipe - Review
RCS Technik Tiger Moth
Ripmax Hellcat Slim - Review
Robbe Aero Commander
Sky Rider Toy Glider - Conversion to Electric
Thunderbolts are GO!
T-IFO, Introducing the
Xtra-Wot - Conversion to Electric
Zagi-FiXX, A
Model Plans
And Now? (Free Plan)
Birdy (free plan)
Electric Hovercraft (Free Plan)
FlexiFlyer
Martinet, The
Meet the Airtimers (Free Plan)
Purple Lark (Free Plan)
Models
400 line of Models
Airco D.H.2 - Part 1
B-24D Liberator
Bigtimer
Brian's Blenheim
Dakota Tales
Different "FlexiFlyer"
Electric Eighty (enlarged Super 60)
36
E.F.-U.K.
John Digby
Ian Savage
Jan Bassett
Neil Stainton
Robert Rauer
John Warman
Gordon Tarling
Neil Stainton
Jan Bassett
Brian Rawnsley
David Jowers
Robin Tuff & Dick Comber
John Anderson
Dick Comber
John Digby
Dave Chinery
John Stennard
Paul Cook
Rom Muryn & Jan Bassett
62
68
68
62
62
61
62
62
65
72
62
67
60
63
60
65
68
71
73
51 - 59
12 - 15
51 - 55
26 - 30
31 - 33
50 - 53
13 - 22
22 - 26
24 - 26
39 - 43
34 - 43
52 - 58
11 - 15
15 - 22
35 - 38
34 - 44
30 - 33
31 - 36
45 - 49
David Theunissen
Mick Payne
Nick Hughes
Jan Bassett
Stuart Ord
Tony Long
Mick Payne
68
71
67
68
72
70
63
34 - 38
37 - 46
36 - 45
25 - 29
58 - 59
34 - 40
30 - 36
Chris Golds
Jan Bassett
Jan Bassett
Jan Bassett
Jan Bassett
Robin Fowler
Tony Long
Brian Leadley
Trevor Hewson
Bernie Winters
Brian Squelch
71
66
67
70
71
71
74
61
69
70
71
11 - 21
19 - 21
28 - 30
20
22 - 24
28 - 30
43 - 44
54 - 57
23 - 34
48 - 49
62 - 68
Models (continued)
Electric-Powered Gliders - Pt 1
Bob Smith
Bob Smith
Bob Smith
Bob Smith
Fun with a B-29
Mike Smallridge
Gibberwing, Wringlet, Flying Circlus & Boob Toob
Steve Webb
Inspiration - models from the 2002 shows
Jan Bassett
Ivan's Lanc - part 1
Mikie Pirie
Killer Diller
John Norman
Making of Sally B, The
Ivan Goodchild
Mini 3D flying with LiPo cells
David Perrett
Park Flying - A whole new way to start the day
Brian Rawnsley
Parky, A
Rob Ireland
Pico-Stick developments
Brian Rawnsley
Sunday Flyer, Electrifying the
Mike Pirie
Tale of a Pig's Ear
Baden Austin
Wattage F-22 Raptor
Rob Ireland
Worker Bee
Trevor Hewson
Models - Ducted Fan
FanJet Trainer & Vampire
John Stennard
Messerschmitt Me 262 Schwalbe
Christian Hoffman
Motor Mounting
Simple Motor Mount System, A
M D Mackendrick
What to do with your Motor
Tony Long
Motors
Haggle of Hackers
Bob Smith
Maxi AXI
David Chinery
Mighty Midget - indoor motors
Bob Smith
Model Motors MV2020/20
Bob Partington
TorqueMax LRK DIY Brushless Motors
Jan Bassett
Trials on Speed 400 Motors
Malcolm Mackendrick
Personal Experiences
I Join the ATA (Ancient & Tatty Aeromodellers)
Nick Fitton
Ill-fated career of a Me 109
John Norman
Man Carrying Balloons & Electric Flight
Alan Cole
Novice's Tale
Mike Christensen
Starburst, Flying the
Nick Fitton
Propellers
Ramoser varioPROP
Jan Bassett
E.F.-U.K.
63
64
65
66
73
60
72
74
70
74
76
66
69
72
69
63
75
61
09 - 15
13 - 18
45 - 52
22 - 28
30 - 35
42 - 50
66 - 72
57 - 62
60 - 61
29 - 36
18 - 21
52 - 55
20
60 - 61
61 - 62
27 - 29
46 - 47
57 - 62
72
72
51 - 52
44 - 50
72
60
62 - 63
23
66
73
61
72
68
75
46 - 51
63 - 69
26 - 30
36 - 38
39 - 48
52
60
72
76
64
69
16 - 20
53 - 57
52 - 53
19 - 20
35 - 41
68
21 - 24
37
Radio
Channel 64 - A problem?
Tip to Save your Fingers
Readers' Models
A10 Warthog
Aerobatic foamies
AFF Alpha Jet EDF
Aqua Sport Floatplane
B-24 Liberator
Bae Hawk
Balsacraft Bristol Blenheim
Bear in the Air
Black Magic
Black Magic
Black Magic - enlarged to 84"
Bora - 61"
Bristol Beaufighter (shots by Graeme McFarlane)
Britton-Norman Trislander
Comper Swift
Comper Swift (1/4 scale)
Crossfire
Crossfire
CSD Switchblade
DB Sopwith Pup
DB Tinker
de Havilland DH-104 Devon
Dreamboat seaplane
Drunie Trubulent (1/3 scale)
Electroglide
Elfi
Estes T-25 Centurian
Flair Bristol F2B Fighter
Flair Fokker D VII
Flair Magnitilla
Flair Me 110 - 65"
FlexiFlyer
Flying Wing
Flying Wings
Four-Star 40
GAF Nomad
38
E.F.-U.K.
Gordon Tarling
Eric Leadley
66
60
09 - 12
22
Ivan Goodchild
Joel Trotter
Jan Bassett
Rich Flinchbaugh
Robin Fowler
John Anderson
Mike Pirie
Adrian Burge
Mike Sharp
Eric Leadley
Colin Boast
Hubert Fehenberger
Ivan Goodchild
R H Fowler
Bill MacLeod
Denis Bannister
David Jowers
Jan Bassett
Jan Bassett
Adrian Burge
Adrian Burge
Robin Fowler
Rich Flinchbaugh
Anthony Hill
Dick Godden
Bill MacLeod
Jan Bassett
Anthony Hill
Denis Bannister
Ken Nixon
David Jowers
Bernie Winters
Dick Godden
Eric Leadley
Bill MacLeod
Rob Ireland
73
74
73
71
66
73
72
67
62
67
66
69
75
68
74
75
61
65
75
67
67
66
73
73
60
74
75
73
75
60
60
73
72
66
74
66
24
17
28
26
14
19
13 - 14
16
68 - 69
15
17
22
10
18
24
09
47 - 48
23
16
16
17
13
14
17
73
23
15
16
09
71 - 73
74
15
11
16
22 - 23
15
Readers' Models (continued)
Grumman Wildcat
Rob Ireland
Hangar Rat
Bernie Winters
Heinkel He111 (shots by Graeme McFarlane)
Trevor Standard & John Ranson
Henschel 129B
Anthony Hill
Hercules
Bill Macleod
Hergt Monoplane
Bill MacLeod
Hovercraft (free plan in EF-UK)
Mike Pirie
Hurricane - 35"
John Miller
Little Tiny
Jan Bassett
Luscombe Monocoupe 218
Mike Moore
Macro Blaster (enlarged)
Bob Brown
Me 109
John Anderson
Mosquito FB VI - 128" 1/5th scale
Franz Schmid
Mulitplex Twin-Jet
Mike Pirie
Multiplex Cargo finished as a B-17B
Martyn Lea
Multiplex Kranich powered glider
Jan Bassett
Multiplex Pico Cub - highly modified
Richard Haywood
Multiplex Twin-Jet - modified
Jan Bassett
Mystic
Ivan Goodchild
Nano Gnat
Stuart Ord
Nemesis
Stuart Ord
Partenavia P-68 Victor (from the Radio Modeller plan)
Colin Boast
Piaggio P-136 L2 Seaplane
Rich Flinchbaugh
Pico-Jets
Martyn Lea
Pico-Stick
Mark Christensen
Pushy Galore (enlarged)
Franz Stockinger
RAF SE5a (1/4 scale)
Anthony Hill
REM Eagle Ornithopter
Jan Bassett
Royal Gull seaplane
Rich Flinchbaugh
Short Scion - 45"
John Miller
SIG Cub (1/4 scale)
Ivan Goodchild
Simprop Taube ARTF
Bill MacLeod
Smooth-E
Stuart Ord
Sortakhoi
Bill MacLeod
Spartan
John Anderson
Spitfire (shots by Graeme McFarlane)
Jogn Ranson
Stearman
Ivan Goodchild
Sukhoi 26SP - 32"
Chris Wright
Taylorcraft Floatplane
Rich Flinchbaugh
E.F.-U.K.
73
73
75
73
73
74
74
60
66
74
65
73
67
72
68
73
66
65
73
72
72
66
71
68
74
71
73
75
73
60
73
74
72
74
73
75
73
60
71
20 - 21
15
11 - 12
17
22 - 23
21
18
69 - 70
18
19
21
19
14
12
20
29
15
21 - 23
26
15
16
18
27
19
24
25
16
14
14
70 - 71
27
21
15
20
18
13
25
74
27
39
Readers' Models (continued)
Twin-Jets
V1 flying bomb (shot by Graeme McFarlane)
Veron 'Deacon'
Viking (vintage)
Voster Hercules
Wattage "Reno Racer"
XP-27 Twinshooter
ZAGI Converson
RTP
Electric RTP
Safety
It's a Breakthrough - Comment on Flightline Safety
Lead-Acid Battery Safety
Safety and Frequnecy Control
Safety with LiPo Batteries
Speed Controllers
Preset Speed Controller for Free-Flight models, A
Sudden 'ush (Multiplex Rondo)
Techniques
Electric Piggyback (glider carrying)
Rolled ply fuselages
Stiffer Foam - Balsa Wings
Tips
Battery Cooler
Günther Propeller Adaptor
Make your IFO or Mini-IFO more crash resistant
Make your own Safety / Charging System
Plastic Wheel retaining washers
Sanding Sponges
TLC from your TLO
TLC from your TLO
TLC from your TLO
TLC from your TLO
TLC from your TLO
TLC from your TLO
Martyn Lea
Ivan Goodchild
Dennis Coe
Stuart Ord
Mike Pirie
Stan Rose
John Anderson
Peter Bragg
68
75
61
72
72
75
73
62
19
12
48 - 49
16
14
14
18 - 19
64 - 67
Alan Cole
76
23 - 26
Alan Bedingham
David Andrews
The Editor
Jan Bassett
60
73
62
76
39 - 41
07
08
22
John Bunting
David Chinery
72
73
73 - 75
36 - 37
John Stennard
Mike Payne
John Hunt
71
62
61
69 - 71
70 - 73
75
John Anderson
The Editor
Dr Allan Levi
John H Price
John Thompson
Mike Donkin
Alan Bedingham
Alan Bedingham
Alan Bedingham
Alan Bedingham
Alan Bedingham
Alan Bedingham
69
64
67
61
68
63
70
71
72
73
74
75
21
24
31
71 - 74
11
43
26 - 28
47 - 51
23 - 27
70 - 73
37 - 42
27 - 30
Note: This index only covers EF-UK issues 60 to 76 and is additional to the index
for issues 28 to 59, printed in EF-UK issue 59. The full index is available as an
Acrobat file (.pdf) in the EF-UK page on the BEFA Website (www.befa.org.uk).
Hard copies available from the Editor, please send a C5 S.A.E. and £2.
40
E.F.-U.K.
World
Championship
Trophies Appeal
by Bob Smith
I would think that most Association members are by now aware that the World
Championships for Electric Flight in the F5B and F5D categories are to be held
this year in the U.K., specifically in York on the 6th to the 15th August.
In fact, you will find a brief article elsewhere in this edition giving fuller details of
the event and ways in which members might volunteer to help the organisers.
I am wearing 2 hats with regard to this matter as I am both Treasurer of BEFA
and Chairman of the World Championship Organising Committee. It is in this
latter role that the BEFA Committee has given permission to write in our magazine.
All aeromodelling world championships are held under the auspices of the hosting
National Governing Body (in our case the BMFA), and the International
Aeromodelling Commission (CIAM).
The formal awards to Championship winners and to second and third place
competitors (both individual and team) take the form of medals and certificates
which are FAI/CIAM awards but are actually purchased by the Championship
Organisers and the costs included in the overall budget.
With regard to World Championship Perpetual Trophies, these are often of some
historical significance, for example, the Wakefield Trophy for the F1B category,
but electric flight is a very recently established category and no such trophies
exist at present.
BEFA would like to correct this situation, and I have been given authority to
start an appeal amongst our membership with the express purpose of funding the
purchase of two trophies.
If the appeal is successful the trophies will be donated, on your behalf, to CIAM
and will be known as the British Electric Flight Association F5B World
Championship Trophy and the British Electric Flight Association F5D World
Championship Trophy.
This, of course, is a one-off appeal. Any funds raised will be put towards the
purchase of a suitable trophy for the F5B event in the first place. If sufficient
funds are raised then an additional trophy will be purchased for the F5D event. If
insufficient funds are raised to purchase either trophy then the balance will be
placed into the BEFA General Account and used for the benefit of the membership.
E.F.-U.K.
41
So how can you contribute to this appeal?
I will gratefully receive anything you would like to contribute in whatever way
you find most convenient, but the best and simplest way is to send me a cheque for
whatever sum you consider appropriate.
There is a submission form on the centre pull-out pages which I would like you to
complete for our records. My address is also given there.
If you wish then a photocopy or a handwritten copy will be fine. I will publish
details of the success (or otherwise) of the appeal both in EF-UK and on our
website and will also publish a full list of subscribers and subscriptions on
completion of the appeal. Anyone who indicates on the form that they wish their
name or their subscription sum to be anonymous will have their wish respected.
I do hope that you will be able to support us in this matter. It is an opportunity to
place the name of our Association in permanent international record, and although
it is asking for additional financial support, this is a unique opportunity to get
BEFA to the forefront of the International Electric Flight scene.
Thank you for your consideration on behalf of the BEFA Committee, the World
Championship Organising Committee, and all participants in the 2004 Electric
Flight World Championships.
User Friendly Guide to the Super Nova
See review on www.flyingsites.co.uk - “Recommended!”
A comprehensive and very clear
guide to the Super Nova
Charger, including menu flow
chart, battery hints and tips
and much more.
Available at an increasing
number of leading shops or
direct from the author.
Send cheque for £6 (includes
UK P&P) to:
Andrew Gibbs,
14 Atherley Court,
Hill Lane,
Southampton.
SO15 7NG
Enquiries & overseas sales: mrandrewgibbs@yahoo.com
42
E.F.-U.K.
Sniff the Dope!
By David Theunissen
I'm building a new nine foot wingspan model called a Hurricane. Mine is the RAE
version, not the famous WWII Hawker Hurricane. Never heard of the RAE version?
Well they only built one in their spare time eighty years ago so perhaps it's no
surprise!
This story is not so much about the plane but its covering. Silk is the Queen of
covering materials. I've used it before on my '1938' vintage Dragon Fly and I still
love it. Being a scale model, I wanted the Hurricane to have an authentic fabric
skin. Although Solartex is easy to use it is also quite heavy, not entirely waterproof
and a bit flexible. Since the original had fabric which was apparently 'doped silver',
silk and dope seemed the right way to go. I also wanted to know the weight of this
type of covering.
Its been some time since I did the Dragon Fly and can't remember any of the tricks
I had to master then. So this time I thought I would record some of my trials and
tribulations so that I could remind myself never to use silk and dope again! Just
kidding (or perhaps not!); read on…
E.F.-U.K.
43
Step 0: Build a small test structure (e.g.: a small 'elevator' with 3 ribs with
similar spacing to that on your model). Now follow all subsequent steps using
this item so that you learn the technique. If you don't think you have time to do
this, then give up now! These instructions should help you get it right first time
but if not, peel the silk off and start again. I've only covered two planes in silk in
my whole life but I can't remember how many times I covered my test piece until
I was happy with the process! 'Practice makes perfect' holds true here.
Step 1: Acquire some nice silk. How do you know it is nice? It should be light,
delicate, have a close weave and no pattern or obvious imperfections. I bought a
100% silk called 'Habutae Paj' from Fabric Land in Reading (0118 9594951). It is
90cm wide and cost £3.59 a linear meter. For this nine foot (2000 sq. in. wing
area) model, I used most of a 10m length which would be similar for any covering.
I also needed just over a litre of dope and probably used about three litres of
thinners.
Step 2: Reinforce the structure. If you use shrinking dope, the shrinkage can
be quite severe and weak structures distort. You don't have to build in excessive
strength, just a few extra balsa diagonals and the like. Things which are 'square'
tend to stay that way. Things that are at an angle (e.g.: the ailerons on the Hurri)
tend to compress and change shape. Things that are like step ladders can curve in
the least expected ways (as did my wings where the leading/trailing edges bowed
forwards leaving a curved aileron hinge line).
Step 3: Prepare the model for covering. You need to apply dope to all exposed
surfaces, lots of it. You do this for two reasons; one is to waterproof the framework
(you apply the silk wet with water) and the other is to saturate the surface of the
wood with dope. I painted one coat but this was woefully insufficient. Although it
looked fine before I painted it, in reality the silk which came in contact with the
wood ended up being very dry.
On reflection this should come as no surprise as the doped silk is only 0.05mm
thick while the balsa sheet is 1.5mm. Silk over 3mm liteply suffered the most from
being too dry. I can't tell really you how many coats you need but would suggest
two or three on fine-grained wood (e.g. balsa) and an additional one or two on
more open grained wood (eg: liteply). I would use neat dope for this step. It is
normal to sand these surfaces lightly between coats to remove the fuzz.
Step 4: Prepare your materials.
Cut the silk slightly oversize; an extra inch or so all round should do. Always
orientate the weave as 'square' to the structure as possible to reduce the chance of
distortion. My wing was rather large so I chose to cover each half with four
pieces; one pair (top and bottom) from the root to the start of the aileron and the
others for the rest of the wing. This approach worked OK but I had to take extra
care with the joins. More on this later. See photo below.
Dilute a quantity of dope at this time. I chose one part shrinking dope to two
44
E.F.-U.K.
parts thinners. Buy 5 litres of thinners from a car paint shop if you want to save
some money (this can cost less than 500ml from the local DIY store). My dope is
labelled 'cellulose shrinking dope' so I bought 'cellulose thinners'. The thinned
solution is extremely runny and has a very low dope content (33%) which is what
you want as I will explain later. All future references to 'dope' will mean this
thinned solution.
I bought a 'dope' brush from a model shop. The bristles are about 10mm wide,
3mm thick and 30mm long. Anything similar should do. You should only need one
and you never have to clean it! Simply soak a dry stiff brush in the thinned dope
solution (or neat thinners) and it will loosen up quite quickly.
Step 5: Spread the silk over the framework being covered. Only do one side
at a time. Align the weave as 'square' to the structure as possible. Now spray the
silk with water from a (clean) detergent type bottle. The water makes the silk
stick to the structure and stay in place while you stretch it. Silk is a natural fibre
so it does not stretch in quite the same way as more porous substances do.
However, the water can dilute or soften some natural chemicals and certainly the
weaving process introduces considerable slackness. Although not apparent when
dry, you will quickly see how much the silk 'expands' when you wet it. The water
lubricates the fibres and helps you pull everything taught in the next step. You
E.F.-U.K.
45
don't wanting it dripping but don't be too shy with the water either.
Step 6: Stretch the wet silk. This is probably the most important step. You will
find that you have to tug on the silk all the way round the circumference a number
of times. A surprising amount of force can be required when pulling over sheeted
areas. You need to pull the silk taught but at the same time retain the same
tension everywhere. You want to try to keep the weave straight in all directions.
You may need to spray more water if it starts to dry out. Of course at this time
you can simply lift the silk and start again if it looks like the weave is becoming
distorted. Try to eliminate all wrinkles. The better you do this step, the less
distortion you should have later.
Step 7: Adhere the edges of the silk to the structure with dope. Simply
paint the dope onto the silk all the way round the perimeter. Move on to the next
component while you wait for the water and dope to dry. Despite your best efforts,
once the silk has dried it may have a few wrinkles. You probably don't have to
worry about these as shrinking dope should come to the rescue. At this time you
will normally have one half of a component covered (eg: the bottom of an elevator),
the edges should be secured but the one inch excess will be flapping in the breeze.
The rest of the silk will not have been doped yet.
Step 8: Neaten up the edges.
46
E.F.-U.K.
You typically want 8-12mm overlaps. Trim unneeded excess off neatly with
scissors. Make perpendicular cuts as you would with film covering if needed
to wrap around complex curves. Apply dope to these edges so that they are
all completely attached, flat and no have no air bubbles. If necessary, press
them down with your fingers or a rag to force them to lie flat and stick.
You should now have one half covered and all edges neatly stuck down.
I mentioned earlier that I covered each side of each half wing with two
pieces of silk joined along the rib where the ailerons start. Each of these
were attached one at a time and allowed to dry as described in the previous
steps before starting the next one. These joins need special attention when
there is only a small amount of underlying structure to support the join
(eg: 6mm wide cap strips in this case).
The following diagram illustrates how to do this. The edge of the first
piece of silk (where it ends at the 'joining' rib) was folded in and doped to
the side of the rib. If the second layer has a nice neat edge (the woven edge
is best) it can overlap the first layer by as much as you want (eg: the 812mm suggested above). Obviously you cannot fold the outer edge of the
second layer down the side of the joining rib. This is OK because the first
layer of silk will support it.
Step 9: Cover the rest of each component in the same way. You do this piece
by piece, one at a time. You should end up with each component fully covered with
dry silk and all edges sealed with dope.
When overlapping the edges of the second/top layer of silk, try to avoid
fraying the edges too much and in particular letting fibres stray too far. A
single fibre appears extremely insignificant at this time but is hard to
sand off later and shows up more than you would like if you spray the
model with a colour.
For the join in the centre of the wing (where multiple pieces are used for
each side), you may find it easiest to bond the second piece of silk to the
'joining' rib and letting this dry before trying to stretch the wet silk taught
E.F.-U.K.
47
in other directions. If you don't do this then it tends to slip while you are
tugging on the wet silk to stretch it.
Step 10: Start doping the rest of the silk. Sheeted areas are easy. Simply
slosh the dope on and spread it evenly. Open areas need more care. The dope
serves two primary purposes. The first is to pull the silk taught and the second is
to seal the weave. To achieve the first the best, the silk needs to be fully saturated,
inside and out. The thinned dope is very effective in this regard. To fill the weave
your instinct might be to use the dope neat (undiluted) or even to add a filler.
However, the problem with these approaches is that it is too easy to 'pool' or run
beneath the silk. These then leave very thick layers of dope in places which pull
much tighter than other areas and leave unsightly marks and distortions when
dry. Do not do this! The trick is to use the diluted dope and to paint it on while
holding the silk/component vertically (see photo).
Start at the top and allow the dope to run down the silk as you work your way
down. Most of the excess will be absorbed by the dry silk and yield a fairly consistent
coat. It does not do this entirely on its own. You need to help the dope spread by
working it with the brush left and right and up and down to encourage it to
spread. Try to make 'runs' disappear. This technique may yield a few runs and
distortions, but at least you know they are only 33% solutions instead of 100% so
the effect is much less. Once this first coat on the first half is dry, do the same to
48
E.F.-U.K.
the other half. You need to keep applying dope to both sides one after the other so
that they pull evenly against each other. You would normally let the one side dry
before doing the other.
Step 11: Under-cambered airfoils. The first coat of dope should have helped to
taughten the silk but may result in a gap on under-cambered wings. Force the silk
to follow the 'hollow' with weights (eg: strips of wood parallel with and between
pairs of ribs).
Paint neat dope on the silk where it needs to adhere to the rib/cap strip. This will
increase the concentration of dope at these points and should keep the silk in
place during subsequent steps.
Step 12: Apply the second and third coats. The second coat on each side
needs to be applied in the same way as described in step 10. The weave will not
have been filled by the first coat. The third coat can usually be applied with the
silk flat (horizontal) as most of the weave should be filled by the second coat.
Allow the dope to dry significantly between each coat (i.e.: it must look dry).
However, although you should not try to rush things, it does not have to be bone
dry because the next coat is always going to soften earlier ones anyway.
Step 13: Add any detailing / correct any problems which may be appearing.
I made a frame and stretched some silk over one side and treated it with
four coats of dope as described in the above steps. This gave me a pretreated ('sized') piece of silk which I could use for patches and other things.
I mentioned that my wing bowed forwards. I added a balsa fillet along the
hinge line at this time (on top of the silk) to straighten this edge. I then
used the extra pre-treated silk to cover this repair. This meant that the
'new' silk was at a similar state to that on the wing already and would not
leave dry spots. This worked very well.
I also cut rib tapes from this silk using pinking shears. My model is a 40%
scale so a 'double cut' with the shears gave me a near perfect pitch. The
dope did an excellent job of holding the fibres together even when working
it quite aggressively to remove air bubbles.
One wing had a slight twist so a coat of thinners on the bottom surface
was sufficient to give me enough slack to bend it straight. If you need to
do this, paint the thinners on quickly and try not to work the silk too
hard (with the brush) or you are likely to disturb the dope seal between
the weave. Correct the twist by hand and hold it while it dries. A heater
can help the thinners vent off quicker.
I also peeled back parts of the aileron covering to trim some distorted
balsa and simply painted the same silk back with the thinned dope.
Apply extra dope to areas that have not pulled properly taught.
E.F.-U.K.
49
Sand off any dust or stray fibres with 600 grit 'wet and dry'. Try not to
expose bare silk. However, if you do, simple dope over it now or cover it
well in the next step.
Step 14: Apply remaining coats. The fourth coat will probably still be revealing
'pin holes' in the silk. I stopped after this coat but when I painted the silk it
revealed that some areas had not been completed sealed. A fifth coat is advisable
when the items are to be painted or you want better waterproofing. You might
like to use non-shrinking dope if things are taught enough after step 12.
Other matters
Well, that's about it. If you are not going to paint the dope then your job is largely
done. Note that it takes a few days for the thinners to evaporate off enough to
stop smelling badly. Talking of smell, the vapours are not pleasant and you must
do this in a well ventilated area. The fumes will probably make you unwell if done
inside a house as you will continue to breath them in for days.
I experimented with adding aluminium powder to the dope to try to avoid the need
for painting. However, the concentration needed seemed too high and I gave up. I
thought grey dye (powder) might also be a good idea but in reality it is made up of
many different colours which looked weird and did not dissolve properly in the
dope. In the end I just painted the model with Blackfriars paint from my local DIY
50
E.F.-U.K.
shop. This is a White Spirits based emulsion and appears to have bonded well to
the thinners based dope. I did not use any undercoat to save weight. The finish is
by no means perfect but I think it is adequate for this model. Time will tell if this
approach is durable.
You may notice when you paint your first dope onto the edges of the wet silk that
the doped silk turns white when it dries. This is normal and will become clear
again when you dope over it with subsequent coats. The main lesson here is that
wet weather has a similar effect.
Dope applied in damp conditions (even onto silk which is dry) yields a white/
milky finish. This is no problem if you intend painting over it but looks terrible if
you intend it to be clear. So you should only dope in dry conditions if you want the
'natural' finish.
Weights
My silk weighs about 20g per square meter (0.6 oz./sq. yard) dry. Preparation and
four (thinned) coats of dope added about 32g/m2 (0.95 oz./sq. yd.) on average, and
my two coats of Silver paint added another 17g/m2 (0.5 oz./sq. yd.).
The final finish on my model and comparisons with some other options follow:
Material
g/m2
oz. / sq. yd.
White So'Lite
31
0.91
Silver Litespan (excl. Balsaloc)
37
1.09
Clear SolarFilm (no pigment)
42
1.24
Silk and dope (4 coats)
52
1.53
Silver SolarFilm
54
1.59
Silk, dope and Silver paint
69
2.04
103
3.04
Red Solartex
I am pleased that it ended up being lighter than Solartex, but it really needed
another coat of dope. I should probably have also used an undercoat, so it is all a
bit heavier than I had hoped for. In total the covering applied the whole model
weighs 290g (10oz).
As you can probably tell from this marathon description, silk and dope is a great
deal of work. It did not turn out as light as I had hoped but it is a nice finish and
is very rigid. I will leave you to decide if it is appropriate for your models.
There must be loads of people with more experience that I. My research has revealed
that there are many approaches to doping silk but the approach described worked
well for me and I am happy with the outcome.
E.F.-U.K.
51
Please let the editor know if you have more suggestions or comments. As always
Man Carrying Balloons &
Electric Flight
by Alan Cole
There is a connection between man carrying balloons & electric flight. The building
which housed the Balloon School of the Royal Engineers, built 1907, is still
standing. Suspended from the ceiling in one room in that building is an electric
aircraft. The aircraft is not as old as the building - more like 24 than 94 years.
The building stands near the main road in Farnborough, Hampshire, and after its
use by the Balloon School, it became the first Headquarters of the Royal Flying
Corps. Lord Trenchard had his office there for a few months. It remained RAF
property until 1946 when it was transferred to the Royal Aircraft Establishment
(RAE), later housing the Establishment's Museum. It was sold by the Ministry of
Defence, along with the rest of the RAE Factory site and is now leased by its new
owners to Farnborough Air Sciences Ltd.
This historic building houses the operating headquarters of the Farnborough Air
Sciences Trust (FAST) as well as their Museum. The formal RAE Museum is now
in storage with the Science Museum. The one now in the Balloon School building
is the work, principally, of a number of dedicated volunteers who think that the
large slice of the aeronautical history of the world that was the RAE should not
all be destroyed to make way for yet another office park.
The aircraft hanging from the ceiling is not as big as the model of the Sally B
which featured in Issue 74 of this magazine. It is about 5 ft. 6 in. (1.67 m) long
with a span of 8 ft. (2.44 m). It was one of a family of Unmanned Aircraft built in
the late 1970s at the RAE to investigate their use in reconnaissance - the same
function as that of the Balloons of the early 1900s. Similar work had been carried
on at RAE for many years - perhaps the best known example (to one of my
generation) was the de Havilland "Queen Bee", based on the Tiger Moth, although
there are records of much earlier work - but not electrically powered.
The first models in the 1970s series were powered by 15cc Webra engines but the
noise drew attention to them and the need for "Silent Flight" led to the model now
on show. The motor and gearbox were developed in conjunction with Thorn-EMI
and it was fitted with a 4-bladed 9” x 6” hand carved propeller. Lithium Hydride
batteries were used to power the drive motor at some 160V - a large and very
heavy pack which occupied most of the fuselage around the position of the C of G.
A catapult or bungee launch system was used and the aircraft could be flown out
of sight using radar tracking and computer control. Flights in excess of 30 minutes
were achieved. A separate NiCd pack was used for the radio control system and
the payload - a video camera and transmitter. The aircraft was recovered by landing
on skids on its underside.
52
E.F.-U.K.
From the accompanying photograph you will see that the overall layout is a pod
and boom fuselage, with the wing mounted half way up the pod and the motor on
the pod top driving a pusher prop - its a not dissimilar layout to that used for
today's "buy this morning, fly this afternoon" models.
I suppose that sort of performance could be achieved now at much less cost and by
us 'amateurs', but I found it an interesting example of how things were. The FAST
Museum is open to the public at weekends and houses many other items of
aeronautical interest - there is part of the control system for the aforementioned
"Queen Bee". Entrance is free so if you are in the area, do call in and see this early
example of electric flight of model proportions, as well as the many reminders of
how aeronautics developed in this country - from the days of balloons and man
carrying kites. If not in the area - make a special journey, I think you'll enjoy it.
E.F.-U.K.
53
KAN 1050 NiMH Cells
by Jan Bassett
Following discussions with Nick Kemp of Ampower (www.ampower.co.uk), I
was offered the chance to test a pack of 7 KAN 1050 cells. These cells the same
diameter as the Sanyo 500AR cells, are about 1.3 mm longer and around 3g per
cell heavier. They are wrapped in a plain light green sleeve, which is marked with
the cell type and date of manufacture. Thus the completed 7 cell pack was around
4 mm longer than my 500AR packs and weighed 23g more.
A standard configuration 7 cell pack of KAN 1050 cells
OK, so the pack is a little bigger and heavier, but what power can I extract from
it. They are rated at 15A+, so I decided that my pylon racer would be a good test
bed. It is a CSD Switchblade (27” span, 118 sq. in. wing area, and a flying weight
of 17 oz. with a 7 Sanyo 500AR pack) fitted with a Hacker B40-16 Short motor,
Jeti JES 30 3P controller and a 4.7” x 4.7” Graupner CAM Speed propeller. The
pylon racer weighs increases to 511g with the KANs, a modest 4.7% growth.
The best option is to perform a direct comparison between the old (500AR) cells
and the new (KAN 1050) cells. I charged a pack and ran it in motor until the
initial power cutout. I then put it on discharge to find out what capacity was left
in the battery pack. The average results from a couple of tests were:
Cell Count & Type
7 Sanyo 500ARs
7 KAN 1050s
Max RPM
16800
17100
Time to Cut
96s
234s
Remaining Capacity
150 mAh
150 mAh
The first impressions from the tests were very good, no better than that excellent.
The KAN cells produced a run time increase of 143% for an aircraft weight gain of
only 4.7% and gave a slight power increase as well.
I also ran a series of tests increasing the motor speed in 1000 RPM steps. This
showed a slightly higher voltage (and corresponding) reduction in current with
the KANs. They are very promising so far.
I also put the packs through a 2A discharge cycle using my Schulze charger
connected to my computer and plotted the graphs above. As can be seen the KAN
54
E.F.-U.K.
Comparision of discharge voltage vs time for 7 cell 500AR and KAN 1050 packs at 2A
cells had a noticeably higher voltage and twice the duration as expected from the
static tests. Interestingly enough the voltage drop-off as the KAN cells near full
discharge is much rounder than the 500AR cells.
I wondered whether some of this difference was due to the discharge rate for the
KAN cells being 2C, where it was 4C for the 500AR cells. I tested the 500AR pack
at 2C (1A discharge) and the drop-off was less pronounced, but only by a small
amount and still much quicker than the KAN pack.
The next stage was to flight test them to see if the performance is as good as the
ground tests promised. The Switchblade was launched with the 500AR pack first
as I was familiar with the handling of the model with this pack. I flew a typical
flight of fast passes and large aerobatic manoeuvres and checked the flight time
on landing - 2 mina and 35 secs, which is about average.
I then launched with the 7 KAN 1050s. The model dipped a little on the launch, it
needs a bit more airspeed due to the increased weight, but it didn’t present any
problems - mental note - throw faster. Initial impressions were that the model was
achieving the same level flight speed on full throttle. I flew a similar flight to the
previous one, except I had to repeat the manoeuvres a number of times. I checked
the timer on landing - a flight of 6 mins 37 secs - WOW over 2½ times duration!
It was noticeable that the motor speed dipped towards the of the flight, due to
profile of the discharge curve, however, I’d already been flying for 5 minutes or
twice the duration I achieved with the 500AR pack.
I was thoroughly impressed by this pack, which I will be testing in an electric
glider in the near future.
KAN cells and packs are available from Ampower Batteries with current prices
for the KAN 1050 of £1.59 for single cells and £16.77 for a 7 cell pack. For more
information or to order, see www.ampower.co.uk, email nick@ampower.co.uk
E.F.-U.K.
55
56
E.F.-U.K.
E.F.-U.K.
57
58
E.F.-U.K.
Electric Flight Calendar
If you would like details of your event to appear in these pages please send full
details to the Editor EF-UK, contact details on page 4. Please bear in mind that
this magazine is quarterly so ensure that the details are sent in good time.
For last minute information on events please check out the events list on the
BEFA website (www.befa.org.uk).
Dates, times and, even, locations of events can change at the last minute. You are
strongly advised to check on events with the given contacts before setting out on
your journey to any event.
All BEFA flying events require proof of BMFA or equivalent insurance
to fly. Additionally, all flying models must have been satisfactorily test
flown prior to the BEFA event - NO TEST FLIGHTS ON THE DAY. As from
this year it is a BEFA requirement for all pilots flying at our fly-ins to have a
minimum of an ‘A’ certificate. For flying fixed wing models, any of the fixed wing
‘A’ certificates are acceptable. For helicopters, a helicopter ‘A’ certificate will be
required. For more details contact the Chairman, details on page 4.
April 2004
25th
BEFA East Anglia Fly-In organised and hosted by the Phoenix
Model Flying Club, Pakefield, Lowestoft. Details of the event, site
and directions to it can be found on the Phoenix MFC website at
www.phoenix-mfc.freeserve.co.uk/site.htm
25th
BEFA League event at Pillerton Hersey. The first of this years BEFA
Electroslot and E400 league events. For more information contact
David Perrett at d.l.perrett@btinternet.com or tel: 01455 272 297.
May 2004
1st
National Indoor Arena Fly-In, see page 64 for details.
9th
Bickley MFC Electric Meet 2004, North Kent, Nr Jct 3 of the
M25. For more information contact Kevin Saunders on 01732 840120
or kevinsaunders@yahoo.co.uk or Brian Gaskin on 01322 865701.
16th
BEFA League event at Billesden, Leicester, comprising Electroslot
and E400 league events. For more information contact David Perrett
at d.l.perrett@btinternet.com or tel: 01455 272 297.
22nd / 23rd Sandhays Scale Gliding Association 1st All Electric Fly-in,
near Glentham, Lincolnshire. Grass runway (cut short). Proof of
BMFA membership required. Site info and location on the SSGA
website at www.ssga-online.co.uk. Camping on site available if
required. Contact Gordon Veal on 01673 842581 or e-mail
wgveal@globalnet.co.uk
E.F.-U.K.
59
June 2004
6th
Hayes & DMAC 2004 Electric Fly In, Cranford Park, Hayes. Just
Off Jct 3 of the M4. For more details contact Dave Chinery on 0208
573 4687 or DavidDChinery@aol.com
13th
BEFA League event at Leamington Spa with Electroslot and E400
league events. For more information contact David Perrett at
d.l.perrett@btinternet.com or tel: 01455 272 297.
20th
The Chester MFC "Chas Filtness Memorial Meeting" at the
Roodee (Chester Racecourse). Fun flying - all day from 9:30am to
about 4pm. Vintage & Scale competitions (informal, won't interfere
with sport flying). See www.chestermodelflyingclub.co.uk for
more information or contact Stuart Ord on 01244 671417.
20th
BMFA Southern Area Electric Fly In at the Winchester MAC.
Off the A272 between Winchester and Petersfield. See page 65 for
more information.
26th / 27th Wings & Wheels Model Spectacular at North Weald Airfield, Essex.
See the advertisement on page 63 for more information.
27th
BEFA Float Fly by kind invitation of the Telford Model Boat Club,
at Priorslee Lake, Telford, Shropshire (Adjacent to Jct 4 of the M54).
The water will be shared with the Telford Model Boat Club, but there
is lots of space and there are no restrictions on frequencies. Overnight
camping is available, with toilets and water. More details to follow,
but get cracking on those floats! For more details contact Gordon
Tarling on 01895 251551.
July 2004
3rd
BEFA League event at Middle Wallop (provisional date). Electroslot
and E400 league events sharing the site with the Fun-Fly. Therefore
only ODD 35MHz channels will be available, and unused
channels will be returned to the fun-fly. For more information contact
David Perrett at d.l.perrett@btinternet.com or tel: 01455 272 297.
3rd / 4th
BEFA Fly-In at Middle Wallop. We have received confirmation that
JePe is to attend this fly-in again this year (for the 3rd year running).
On the Saturday the site will be shared with the League event, thus
only even 35MHz channels can be assured. However, it is planned
that the odd channels not in use will be also available for the fly-in.
On the Sunday all 35MHz frequencies will be available. See note
below on competitions. As preparation continues, more information
will be available on the website (www.befa.org.uk) and in the next
issue of EF-UK.
60
E.F.-U.K.
July 2004
18th
BEFA League event at Billesden, Leicester with Electroslot and E400
18th
BMFA Northern Area Electric Fly In at the PANDAS Club,
Pontefract Racecourse, M62 Jct 32. See the poster on page 66 for
more information. John Thompson can be contacted on 01924 515595
or by email at johnty99@ntlworld.com
25th
Bath SpaRCS All Electric Fly-In, at RAF Colerne, Wiltshire. A
large airfield site with grass & tarmac runways available. No
competitions will be held. Proof of BMFA membership required.
Regret there are no facilities for spectators. Pilots briefing at 10am.
For more information contact Bob Partington on 01225 891 441 or
email at bob.partington@ukonline.co.uk
25th
BMFA Midland Area Festival of Flight. R/C Scale. Other Events
TBC but should be F/F Scale, R/C Pylon, R/C Electric, R/C Aerobatics,
IMAC Aerobatics, C/L Speed, Team Race, Aerobatics and Combat.
Barkston Heath, Nr Grantham. Contact Alf Tunnicliffe on 01773
520494 or Eric Clark on eric.clark3@ntlworld.com
August 2004
1st
BEFA Fly-In at the North Leamington School, Leamington Spa.
See note below on competitions. As preparation progresses, more
information will become available on the website (www.befa.org.uk)
and will be included in the next issue of EF-UK..
6th - 15th
The BMFA and CIAM run World Championship Competitions,
assisted by the BEFA, in F5B (Electric Motor Glider) and F5D (Electric
Pylon Racing) at York Racecourse. For more information see page ??
and the website at ewc2004.users.btopenworld.com
28th - 30th BMFA Silent Flight Nationals. This event will contain a
Electroslot and E400 league event. For more information contact the
BMFA at admin@bmfa.org or telephone them on 0116 244 0028.
September 2004
11th
BMFA Northern Area Pudsey Swapmeet and Indoor Flying at
the Pudsey Civic Hall, Nr Leeds. Swapmeet 8.30am - 1pm. Flying for
Scale, Living Room Stick, Butterfly, Foam 200, Gyminie Cricket, Dart.
Contact Gordon Warburton on 0113 285 2947 or Gwrb@aol.com
12th
BEFA Electroslot and E400 League event at York. Contact David
Perrett at d.l.perrett@btinternet.com or tel: 01455 272 297.
E.F.-U.K.
61
18th
Lancing Indoor R/C Meeting at the Lancing Manor Leisure
Centre, West Sussex. Contact Tom Gaskin on 01903 531653 or
tom.gaskin@btopenworld.com
19th
The 20th Annual Pillerton Hersey Electric Fly-In at Home Farm,
Pillerton Hersey, Warwick, CV35 0QJ. John has asked that you please
come and join in the celebrations. Contact John Lewthwaite for more
details on 01789 740 688.
28th
BEFA League event at Pillerton Hersey with Electroslot and E400
October 2004
2nd
Potters Bar Fun Fly Indoor Free Flight at the Furzefield Sports
Centre, Potters Bar (M25 Jct 24). 6pm to 10pm. For more details
contact Brian Downham on 0208 363 7528.
2nd
Lowestoft Indoor Meeting at the Waveney Leisure Centre,
Lowestoft. Mainly F/F but R/C up to 3oz. 7.30 to 10.30pm. Contact
Harry Shimwell on 01502 716583.
9th
Lancing Indoor R/C meeting. See 18 September for more info.
17th
OFMAC Sunday Indoor F/F Meeting at the Castle Leisure Centre,
Wallingford, Oxon. F/F Only. 10 am – 6 pm. For details contact Dave
Dobson on 01491 837789.
November 2004
7th
BEFA Technical Workshop at the Royal Spa Centre, Royal
Leamington Spa, Warwickshire. More details to follow in due course.
13th
North London MFC Indoor R/C Meeting at the Furzefield Sports
Centre, Potters Bar (J24, M25), 6pm to 10pm. For more details contact
Ken on 01908 605818.
20th
Lancing Indoor R/C meeting. See 18 September for more info.
21st
OFMAC Sunday Indoor F/F Meeting. See 17 October for info.
Competitions at this years BEFA Fly-Ins.
In light of recent poor entries to fly-in competitions, the BEFA Committee has
considered what to do this year.
• The informal Scale competition will continue
• The Vintage competition and AULD will not be held (the AULD is now too
long, especially with the wider use of Li-Poly batteries).
• An E400 mini-event will be held instead of the AULD. It will flown to the
normal E400 league rules. Note: these rounds will not count to the BEFA
E400 league results and awards will be presented on the day.
62
E.F.-U.K.
JUNE 26TH & 27TH 2004
9.30 pm - 5.30 pm
at North Weald Airfield, Essex
(Just off Junction 7 - M11 motorway)
Possibly the Best Model Show in the UK
Electric Model Display Pilots welcome, Pre booking essential.
Please contact us if you are interested in displaying your model.
Continuous Model Flying Displays both days.
Commentary by Dave Bishop (DB Sound)
Over 70 Model Trade Stands
Large Model Boat Pool,
Model Car displays,
Gigantic Modellers Bring & Buy,
Bar, Refreshments
Picnic Area
Saturday Night Entertainment.
plus lots more!!
Weekend Camping / Caravans welcome
Advanced Daily Tickets and Caravan / Camping Bookings available now.
(Contact details below)
See all about the 2003 Show on our web site
www.wingsnwheelsspectacular.com
Tel/Fax ++44 (0)1480 462265
email: wingsnwheels@dial.pipex.com
Designaction Limited, Wings & Wheels, PO Box 284, HUNTINGDON. PE28 9AE
E.F.-U.K.
63
Indoor Flying
at the
Birmingham
National Indoor Arena
1st May 2004
6.30 pm - 9.30 pm
£7.00 per Person
Flying will be arranged in Time Slots
All Models over 10 ounces (285g) will be checked
by the Safety Officer before flying.
All BMFA Membership Cards MUST
be presented at booking in.
All Helicopters will fly on 35 MHz
using channel 80 and above.
To ensure this event is a success, we would like an idea
on people taking part so we can cover hall costs.
Please make sure if using a car battery for charging it
MUST be in a plastic container to use at the venue.
Please confirm if you wish to enter!!!
ALL planes & helicopters are welcome
To get your Space booked now
call Alan on 07899 032 944
64
E.F.-U.K.
E.F.-U.K.
65
66
E.F.-U.K.
FOR SALE / WANTED
Member's Sales & Wants
For Sale by Trevor Wain a Puffin Models "Elegant", 2.6m glider / electric glider.
Completed and flown twice before other interests took over. Excellent condition,
no servo's or motor cost £170, offers around £130 to trevorwain@tiscali.co.uk
or telephone him on 01332 792508.
For Sale the following items from Dave Chinery. Contact him on telephone 0208
573-4687 or at DavidDChinery@aol.com.
• Kontronik Drive 500 (Fun 500 motor & controller combo for around
14 cells and a 12" x 8" propeller). Has been flown, but is as new and in
boxes - £160 o.v.n.o.
• Aveox 1409-2Y motor with a Robbe Planeta Pro gearbox and an
Aveox H260, 6-32 cell, 60A sensored controller. Well flown but in Very
Good Condition - £160 o.v.n.o.
• Sanwa RD6000 computer TX/RX combo and charger. Not PCM but
three model memories and usual mode/mixing functions. 6-channel Mode
2 NiCd'd TX. Dual-conversion RX. Nearly new in box with all literature
- used only twice - £100 o.n.o.
• Robbe moulded foam "combat" Spitfire (painted version) complete
with motor, controller, Hitec RX and servos. Flown and crashed but
repaired and complete ready to fly - £100 o.n.o
For Sale by Jan Bassett (jan.bassett@ef-uk.net), models from the estate of Sqn
Ldr Ken Woods MBE, being sold on behalf of the family:
• Goldberg Electra powered sailplane (78” span single-piece 663 sq.
in. wing). Fitted with 1x Hitec HS-80 and 1x Futaba S143 servos. The
motor tube is designed for a Keller 22/12 motor, but would fit a Speed 600
motor & compact gearbox with little or no modification. Covered in red,
white and yellow SolarFilm. Intended for 7 Sub-C cells, but would take 8
x Sub-C or 10 x 4/5 Sub-C (not supplied). Only £20.
• Goldberg Electra powered sailplane as above but with a Keller 22/
12 motor, Graupner 10” x 6” folding propeller, Fleet FPS-24A speed
control, Micron Mini Rx and 2 x Fleet FPS-18 mini servos. Covered
overall in Fibafilm - fuselage, elevator & rudder in white - wings, tailplane
& fin in red. Intended for 7 Sub-C cells, but would take 8 x Sub-C or 10 x
4/5 Sub-C (not supplied). All this for only £35.
E.F.-U.K.
67
For Sale a Kyosho T-33 Shooting Star. Fully modified with improved ducts,
splitter plates and tube, lowered aileron linkage, etc, as per article in EFI January
2000. Flies much better than standard with original AP29L motor and fan unit
on 7 cells. Low hours and has not been damaged. Requires two micro servos and
small RX. Complete with instruction sheet, surplus decals and (static) tip tanks.
These modifications give at least 8 cell performance without the extra weight and
excessive brush wear. Reason for selling is that I need room for new projects.
Price £110 o.n.o. Contact Gareth Hodges at gareth.hodges@btopenworld.com
or telephone 07866 661269, please leave a message if there is no answer.
For Sale by Jan Bassett, 2 Astro-Power Leisure (Australia) '4076' Neodymium
motors. These are a specialised high wind 540 buggy motor fitted with an integral
4:1 gearbox and mounting plate. They are designed for use on 12 - 14 cells, up to
25A and power levels up to 400W. These motors have been little used and are
being sold to make room for other projects. Price £35 each or £60 the pair. More
information and dimensions can be seen at www.alphalink.com.au/~mkbuck/
or contact Jan at jan.bassett@ef-uk.net or on 01935 472 743.
Wanted by the Editor (contact details on page 4) any of the following:
• General or Technical Articles.
• Product Reviews.
• New products.
• Electric Flight Event write-ups.
• Hints and Tips.
• Photographs of your models (with dimensions, equipment installed and
flight performance please).
• New items of interest for inclusion in this magazine.
• Photograph prints (6” x 4” or larger please) supplied will be returned if
you supply a return address, unless you specify otherwise.
• Digital photographs should be at least 1000 pixels wide (preferably as
large as possible), in colour and uncompressed (wherever possible) or
low compression . They can be emailed or posted on a CD.
Requests for inclusion in the For Sale & Wanted pages can be made by email, post
or by telephone, to the Editor using the contact details on page 4. Entries can also
be submitted on-line from the For Sale & Wanted page on the BEFA website at
www.befa.org.uk
If you wish to have pictures included with your for sale or wanted entry, post
photographs, or email graphic files, to the Editor. Graphic files should be in colour
and uncompressed were possible.
Adverts will be included in both E.F.-U.K. and on the BEFA Website unless
instructed otherwise.
68
E.F.-U.K.
New to ELECTRIC FLIGHT?
START HERE . . . . .
You may be taking up Electric Flight for the first time, you may be converting
from another discipline. Whatever your situation, help and advice is available.
BEFA has prepared an information sheet which details further sources of
information which you may find useful when just joining the hobby. To receive a
copy, please send a Stamped Addressed Envelope (S.A.E.) to Robert Mahoney,
address on page 4.
BEGINNER'S GUIDE
A Beginner’s Guide to Electric Flight is available, which explains many of the
'Mysteries' of Electrics’ and will, hopefully, set you off on the right foot. Please
send £3.00, per copy required, to The Editor of EF-UK at the address on page 4.
Please add £1.00 extra for overseas postage and remit in Sterling, cheques payable
to BEFA.
TECHNICAL HELP SERVICE
Technical help is now available again for the use of all members. We regret that
no telephone service is available, but all questions in writing (or email) will be
answered by our new Technical Liaison Officer (TLO). Please refer your queries
to our TLO, to the postal or email address on page 4. Please ensure that you
include an S.A.E. for a reply.
CONNECTIONS SERVICE
Requests are frequently received from members who wish to be put in contact
with other members living in the same area. The easiest method of doing this is
to place a free 'wanted' advert in the classified section of this magazine.
Alternatively, a request may be made IN WRITING to the Membership Secretary
who is allowed to divulge such information to members ONLY. Please supply as
much information about your location as possible and please remember to include
an S.A.E. for your reply.
B.E.F.A. MEMBERSHIP
Membership of the Association is open to all members of the BMFA. Those who
are not members of our national controlling body may only subscribe to EF-UK
with no other benefits of membership. Overseas members are very welcome and
will be classed as full members if they belong to their own national controlling
body.
CONTACT
For full details, please send an S.A.E. to the Membership Secretary (address on
page 4) requesting a membership application form. Those with Internet access
may visit the B.E.F.A. website at www.befa.org.uk where you will find all the
membership application form & information you should require.
E.F.-U.K.
69
B.E.F.A. Sales
BEFA Round, Coloured Rub-down Decals - 50p each
EF-UK Back Issues - No's 38, 40, 41, 44, 52, 53, 55 to 63 (inclusive) at £1.00
each for BEFA members, or £2.00 each to non-members. Issues 64 to 73 are also
available to BEFA members at £3.00 each, or £5.00 each to non-members. These
prices include UK P&P, overseas rates on application.
Please Note these are the ONLY back issues now available and stocks are very
limited of several issues.
EF-UK Index. A comprehensive index of EF-UK from issue 28 to 59 is available
by sending a £1 coin to cover copying and postage cost.
Binders:- are available to hold eight issues of Electric Flight U.K. Produced in
dark blue with gold lettering on the spine, these cost £4.50 each including U.K.
postage. Please add £1 for European postage and £2 for Worldwide postage.
Sweat Shirts & Tee-Shirts: Stock of these is now almost all gone - please
contact Robert Mahoney regarding remaining stock, sizes and prices.
Please send all orders to Robert Mahoney at the address on page 4.
PLEASE REMIT IN STERLING ONLY,
WITH ALL CHEQUES MADE PAYABLE TO B.E.F.A.
Advertisers Index
Andrew Gibbs .............................................................. 42
Aurorra ........................................................................ 27
BEFA Sales .................................................................. 70
E-Zone ...............................................Inside Front Cover
Fanfare ............................................... Inside Back Cover
For Sale / Wanted ........................................................ 67
ImporTekniK ............................................................... 56
Mail Order Model Supply............................................ 32
New-2-U ........................................................................ 9
Spot-On Models ........................................................... 58
Traplet ............................................. Outside Back Cover
Wings & Wheels .......................................................... 63
EF-UK advertising rates are £25 per inside or outside cover, £20 per full page,
£10 per half page, all per issue. Contact the EF-UK Editor for more details (see page 4).
70
E.F.-U.K.
– MAIL ORDER –
SPORTS ELECTRIC FLIGHT
FANS AND GEARBOXES
www.fanfare.f9.co.uk
GEARBOXES
FANS
Morley ‘Jet Elec’ Fan .............................. £15.00
WeMoTec Micro-Fan (280/300/330) ..... £14.00
WeMoTec Mini-Fan (400/480) ............... £28.00
WeMoTec Midi-Fan (540/ 600/930) ....... £38.00
MOTORS
WEP Turbo 10 ........................................ £55.00
Fanfare Silver 16T & 20T ...................... £34.00
Fanfare Powermax 40T ........................ £38.00
Speed 600 8.4v BB SP .......................... £17.00
Speed 600 8.4v Race ............................ £22.00
Speed 650 9.6v BB Race ...................... £33.00
Speed 700 Neodym ............................... £38.00
RE 380 / Rocket 400 ................................ £5.00
Speed 480 BB ........................................ £21.00
Pro 400 .................................................... £5.00
Pro 480 HS ............................................... £6.00
Pro 480 HS BB ......................................... £8.00
MAXCIM BRUSHLESS
Max Neo 13Y 1430 rpm/v ................... £160.00
Max Neo 13D 2470 rpm/v .................... £160.00
Maxu 35D, 21 Cell Controller ............... £140.00
Maxu 35C, 25 Cell Controller ............... £180.00
Superbox 1.6 to 4.28:1 ......................... £50.00
Monsterbox 4 to 6.8:1 .......................... £60.00
Motor Mount ........................................... £12.00
Master Airscrew - 2.5, 3, 3.5:1 ............................. £18.00
MP Jet Planetary - 3.33 & 3.8:1 - 400 / Pro 480 ...... £28.00
MP Jet Planetary - 3.33 & 3.8:1 - Speed 480 ........ £28.00
MP Jet Planetary - 3.33 & 3.8:1 - 540 / 600 ............ £28.00
MP Jet Plastic BB - 4 & 5:1 - 280 / 300 ...................... £8.00
MP Jet Plastic BB - 3, 3.5 & 4:1 - 400 / Pro 480 ......... £8.00
MP Jet Plastic BB - 2.33, 3.5 & 4:1 - Speed 480 ..... £10.00
MP Jet Plastic BB - 1.75, 2.33 & 2.8:1 - 540 / 600 .. £15.00
Mini Olympus ............................................ £8.00
Olympus ................................................. £12.00
MOTORS / GEARBOXES
Speed 400 FG3 ..................................... £17.00
SpeedGear 400 4:1 Inline ...................... £38.00
SpeedGear 480 3.45:1 .......................... £55.00
SpeedGear 600 2.8:1 ............................ £52.00
SpeedGear 700 2.7:1 9.6v .................... £70.00
SpeedGear 700 Neo .............................. £92.00
Mini-Olympus & RE380 .......................... £12.00
Olympus & 540 ...................................... £19.00
Jamara 600 2.9:1 ................................... £24.00
Jamara 650 2.9:1 ................................... £26.00
PROPS
M.A. Folding
M.A. Wood Electric
CHARGERS
Speed 1 Pulse / Pk
Det 4-8 cells ........................................... £27.00
Speed Ex Digital
as above with discharge ...................... £55.00
Simprop 25 cell .................................... £100.00
Wheels, Wire, Servos, Fuses, Caps,
Powerpole, 4mm & 2mm gold conns.
Carbon Folders
(Perkins)
Slimprops
APC Electric
(full range available)
12x8 ................ £14.00
15x12 .............. £15.25
10x6/10x8 ......... £4.00
11x7/11x9 ......... £4.25
12x8/12x10 ....... £4.50
13x8/13x10 ....... £5.00
7x4 .................... £6.00
8x4 .................... £6.00
11x8 .................. £9.00
8x4, 8x6, 9x6 .... £3.50
5½” - 12” dia . £3 to £4
13 ” - 20” dia.£5 to £15
Selection of Graupner & Aeronaut
folding & fixed props.
FANFARE • 18 HILLSIDE ROAD • TANKERTON • WHITSTABLE • KENT • CT5 3EX
‘Sports Electric’ Helpline - Phone / Fax: (01227) 771331 - E-mail: john.swain1@virgin.net
Now online at - www.fanfare.f9.co.uk