Flying at CG limits - what to expect

[Tom Baker]

Here is a link to the MRA on the FD website. http://documents.flightdesignusa.com/Removal%20MRA%20BRS%20%20SW.pdf

[Acensor]

 

.....The CT has proven to be forgiving when it comes to W&B issues with the exception of saturated tail fins. A heavy tail fin can result in a plane that is not controllable in pitch. The weight is assumed to be unchanged when you do the calc but in ground handling you might sense a heavy tail condition and realize it would be a safety of flight issue.

 

Pardon my ignorance, but what' say "saturated tail fin" and his does that occur?

 

Alex

[sandpiper]

 

 

Pardon my ignorance, but what' say "saturated tail fin" and his does that occur?

 

Alex

 

If the drain holes in the under belly fin become clogged, it can fill with water which can ruin the fin as well as cause a nasty aft CG.

[FlyingMonkey]

Pardon my ignorance, but what' say "saturated tail fin" and his does that occur?

 

Alex

 

I think he's referring to the ventral fin under the tail; if the drain holes get plugged and water gets in there, it can be trapped. The fin is hollow and easily big enough to hold a couple of gallons of water. That's 16lb on a very long arm, I'd expect to see a severe aft-CG condition if you tried to fly like that. Roger Lee has recommended opening up the drain holes with oversized drill bits to help prevent this.