Ameer Randolph
Choosing the right fuel tank for your RC airplane is a critical step in the assembly process. While there are many options available, ranging from small to large capacities, selecting the appropriate size depends on several factors. These include the type of engine, its displacement, and the desired flight time. For instance, a 1.5 cubic inch engine at full throttle for 10 minutes would require a 15-ounce tank. Additionally, considerations such as the centre of gravity and the tank's location in relation to the engine must be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Fuel Tank for RC Airplanes
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2 oz, 4 oz, 15 oz, 16 oz, 40 oz, 50 oz, 30 oz |
| Fuel Type | glo-fuel, gasoline |
| Fuel Burn Rate | 1 oz per minute per cubic inch at full throttle |
| Flight Time | 6-10 minutes for a 40 oz tank, 10 minutes for a 15 oz tank at full throttle, 20 minutes at half throttle |
| Installation | Simple plumbing, align centerline of the tank with the engine, consider CG (center of gravity) and tank location, use foam rubber to prevent rubbing against the airframe |
| Fuel System | Gasoline-based or glow fuel systems, Du-Bro fuel tanks need a stopper and replacement fuel lines for gasoline compatibility |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel tank capacity
The capacity of a fuel tank for an RC airplane depends on several factors, including the size and type of the engine, the desired flight time, and the flying style.
Glow engines, for example, burn 1 ounce of fuel per minute per cubic inch at full throttle. Therefore, a 15-ounce tank would provide approximately 10 minutes of flight time at full throttle or 20 minutes at half throttle. The flight time can also vary depending on the weight of the plane and the engine's displacement. For instance, a 6-pound plane with a 1.0 cubic inch engine and an 8-ounce tank would burn 4 ounces of fuel in a 10-minute flight.
When determining the appropriate fuel tank capacity, it is recommended to consider the tank sizes used by others for similarly-sized engines. Additionally, the flying style should be taken into account, as harder flying consumes significantly more fuel than reducing the throttle after takeoff.
DU-BRO offers a range of fuel tank capacities, including 2 and 4-ounce tanks, as well as larger sizes. Their 16-ounce tank, for example, is suitable for a variety of applications and can be used with either glo-fuel or gasoline with the appropriate stopper.
It is important to note that the location of the fuel tank can also impact the performance of the RC airplane. The tank should be positioned as close as possible to the centre of gravity (CG) point to prevent the nose from dipping down when full and to minimise shifts in handling as fuel is burned off.
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Fuel type
The type of fuel used in RC airplanes is an important consideration when choosing the right fuel tank. The most common type of fuel for RC airplanes is a mix of nitromethane, methanol, and oil, often referred to as "nitro fuel". The percentage of nitromethane in the fuel can vary, typically ranging from 5% to 15%, with some racing engines using a higher percentage. This fuel is designed to provide more power due to the lower oxygen requirements of nitromethane, allowing for more fuel to be packed into the combustion chamber. However, it is important not to exceed the recommended nitro content to prevent engine overheating.
Another type of fuel mentioned is "glo-fuel", which is used in some RC airplanes. This type of fuel may refer to the same mixture of nitromethane, methanol, and oil, as glow engines are associated with nitro fuel. Alternatively, "glo-fuel" may refer to a different type of fuel specifically designed for glow engines, which are commonly used in RC airplanes.
The DU-BRO® Fuel Tanks are compatible with both glo-fuel and gasoline, with certain models designed specifically for gas. This flexibility allows users to choose between different fuel types based on their preferences and the specific requirements of their RC airplanes.
It is worth noting that the type of fuel used can impact the performance and engine lifespan of RC airplanes. For example, higher percentages of nitro content can result in higher engine temperatures, which may require additional cooling measures to prevent damage. Additionally, the oil type within the fuel mixture, whether synthetic or castor, can also influence engine performance and maintenance requirements.
The size of the fuel tank and the fuel type are closely related, as the fuel consumption rate of the engine determines the required fuel tank capacity. For example, a 1.5 cubic inch glow engine burns 1 ounce of fuel per minute at full throttle, requiring a 15-ounce fuel tank for a 10-minute flight at full throttle. Therefore, understanding the fuel consumption characteristics of the specific fuel type is crucial in selecting the appropriate fuel tank size for RC airplanes.
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Installation
Installing a fuel tank in your RC airplane is a relatively simple process, but it's important to get it right to ensure the engine performs well and your aircraft stays safe. Here are the steps to follow:
Choosing the Right Fuel Tank
First, you need to select an appropriate fuel tank for your RC airplane. The size of the tank will depend on the engine size and the type of flying you intend to do. Glow engines typically burn 1 ounce of fuel per minute per cubic inch at full throttle. So, for a 1.5 cubic inch engine, a 15-ounce tank would provide about 10 minutes of flight time at full throttle or 20 minutes at half throttle. Consider your flying style, as harder flying consumes more fuel. You can also look at what tank capacities other people are using for similar engines.
Locating the Fuel Tank
The location of the fuel tank is important for optimal performance. Refer to the instructions provided with your plane to determine the best position for the tank within the airframe. Ideally, you want to align the centreline of the tank with the centreline of the engine. Also, consider the centre of gravity (CG) when placing the tank. Place the tank as close as possible to the CG point to prevent the nose from dipping down when the tank is full and to minimise any shift in CG as fuel is burned off. To prevent the tank from rubbing against the airframe and potentially creating a hole, mount it on a layer of foam rubber, such as 1/2-inch thick foam rubber secured with double-sided tape.
Fuel Tank Installation
Now it's time to install the fuel tank. For Du-Bro Fuel Tanks, you may need to use a special stopper and replace the internal fuel lines to make them compatible with gasoline. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for any specific requirements. Pay close attention to the plumbing, ensuring that the clunk line is not too long, as this can cause issues. Check your work thoroughly before considering the task complete.
Testing and Verification
Once the fuel tank is installed, perform a series of ground tests to ensure the system is functioning correctly. Check for any leaks or blockages in the fuel lines. Verify that the engine runs smoothly with the new fuel tank setup. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for any specific testing procedures or recommendations.
Remember, a properly installed fuel tank is crucial for the performance and safety of your RC airplane. Take your time, follow instructions, and don't cut corners. Happy flying!
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Tank location
The location of the fuel tank in an RC airplane is important for ensuring optimal performance and engine health. The first consideration when deciding on the tank location is its effect on the centre of gravity (CG). It is advisable to position the tank as close as possible to the CG point. This prevents the nose from pitching down excessively when the tank is full and avoids a significant shift in the CG towards the rear as the fuel is burned off during flight.
The second consideration is to avoid having to suck the fuel uphill. While pumping carburetors can pull fuel uphill, relying on this mechanism is not recommended. Therefore, the fuel tank should be positioned so that its centreline is aligned with the centreline of the engine. This "perfect alignment" may not always be possible due to airframe design, but getting as close as possible will help ensure smooth fuel delivery.
To achieve the desired centreline alignment, the tank can be mounted on a layer of foam rubber. This mounting method also helps prevent the tank from rubbing against the airframe and developing holes. Typically, 1/2"-thick foam rubber is used, secured in place with double-sided tape between the tank and the airframe.
Additionally, the instructions provided with the RC airplane kit will usually indicate the recommended position for the fuel tank within that specific airframe. Referring to these instructions is crucial to ensure the optimal placement of the tank.
Lastly, the type of fuel and the engine's fuel consumption rate will influence the tank's location. For example, glow engines burn approximately 1 ounce of fuel per minute per cubic inch at full throttle. Therefore, a 15-ounce tank would provide approximately 10 minutes of flight time at full throttle or 20 minutes at half throttle. Understanding the engine's fuel consumption characteristics will help determine the required fuel capacity and influence the placement of the tank accordingly.
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Tank material
The material of an RC airplane fuel tank is an important consideration, as it needs to be tough and durable. DU-BRO® Fuel Tanks, for example, are designed to withstand vibration and pressure without splitting or cracking. They can also be used with pressurised fuel systems. These tanks are made from a material that can be used with either glo-fuel or gasoline, although a separate purchase of a gasoline conversion stopper is required for the latter.
It is worth noting that some fuel tanks may contain chemicals that are known to cause cancer and reproductive harm, according to the State of California. This is the case with DU-BRO® Fuel Tanks, which contain lead.
When choosing a fuel tank material, it is important to consider the type of fuel that will be used. As mentioned earlier, some materials may not be compatible with certain types of fuel, such as gasoline. It is also important to consider the size of the fuel tank and the engine of the RC airplane. For example, a 10cc glow motor typically uses a 16oz fuel tank, while a 15cc 2-stroke engine might use a 12oz tank.
Another factor to consider is the flying style and desired flight time. A larger fuel tank will provide a longer flight time, but it will also add weight to the RC airplane. Therefore, it is important to find a balance between fuel capacity and flight performance.
In conclusion, when choosing a fuel tank material for an RC airplane, it is important to consider the tank's durability, compatibility with the type of fuel, and the size of the tank in relation to the engine and desired flight performance. It is also important to be aware of any potential health risks associated with the materials used.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a variety of fuel tanks available for RC airplanes, such as the DU-BRO® Fuel Tanks, which are designed to withstand vibration and pressure. These tanks can be used with either glo-fuel or gasoline with the appropriate conversion stopper. FLIGHT-MODEL also offers a large selection of RC plane fuel tanks.
The size of the fuel tank depends on several factors, including the type of engine, the desired flight time, and your flying style. For example, a 10cc glow motor typically uses a 16oz fuel tank, while a 15cc 2-stroke glow engine may use a 12oz tank. You can also estimate fuel consumption by considering that glow engines burn approximately 1 oz per minute per cubic inch at full throttle.
When installing a fuel tank, it is important to consider the location of the tank in relation to the engine and the center of gravity (CG) of the aircraft. The tank should be positioned so that its centerline is aligned with the engine's centerline, and it should not affect the CG when fuel is burned off. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that the plumbing is done correctly to avoid issues during flight.
Yes, it is important to follow safety guidelines when working with fuel tanks. Some products may expose you to chemicals, including lead, which can be harmful. Always refer to the product labels and instructions for important information and precautions.
