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Rich S. wrote:
> "Lou" <loupark@hotmail.com> wrote in message
> news:1150800287.313380.63910@r2g2000cwb.googlegroups.com...
>
>>Well, maybe no sense right away, but the plans where drawn quite a
>>while ago. Like the Emeraude, the invention of fiberglass hadn't
>>arrived yet. Although I agree with the statement of making it as light
>>as possible, one of the reason's for this post is to discuss weight.
>>If this can be done with little or no weight penalty, then I thought I
>>would consider the experimental part of this group. After all, if Tony
>>Bingelis did it with good results, then why not consider it? I like the
>>idea of smoother, flatter, and more solid wings. If it turns out to be
>>25lbs or more, then I've to re-think this or just consider going on a
>>diet.
>
>
> I understand where you're coming from, Lou - having had the same dilemma
> myself while building the Emeraude. Fortunately we have a good builder
> support group who could advise me on the nuances of that particular design.
>
> Covering a wing with plywood that was originally designed for fabric and
> open bays, will do more than change the appearance. An aircraft designer has
> planned for the weight distribution (hence stress distribution) across the
> span and chord. Skinning the wing will change both of those. You may
> actually end up with a wing that is heavier, weaker and slower than before.
> Do not make these design changes casually. Orville and Wilbur were
> successful due to engineering, not trial and error.
>
> First, ask yourself "What am I intending to accomplish by doing this?" Any
> change requires more build time and usually more money. There can be other
> penalties as well. If you're into engineering and test piloting as a hobby,
> knock yourself out. It's your time, money and neck.
>
> Re-engineering an older design can have no limit. Look at the fiberglass
> version of the Beech 17 Staggerwing as an example. If you contemplate
> changing a fabric wing to a skinned wing, why not go carbon fiber? How about
> Nanotubes? :) Keep the end goal in sight.
>
> Good Luck with your project!
>
> Rich
>
> P.S. The CAP-10C, the newest version of the Emeraude, now has a carbon fiber
> spar.
>
>
Does it use that "pulltruded" carbon rod stuff for caps? That stuff is
incredibly strong, far superior to carbon roving in compression and tension.
John
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Re: Fiberglass vs. Fabric
