Sylvie Willis
Vibrations in RC fuel tanks can be caused by various factors, such as engine type, mounting, and fuel properties. Excessive vibration can lead to issues like fuel foaming, surging, and reduced performance. To reduce vibration, users can experiment with different engines, adjust mounting techniques, and consider using anti-foam agents or vibration-reducing accessories. Exploring forums and user communities can provide insights into specific engine characteristics and potential solutions for minimizing vibration in RC fuel tanks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Anti-foam agents | Ineffective as the fuel is aerated by mechanical vibration |
| Anti-foam fuel tank kits | Available from companies like Outlaw Hobby Products |
| Fuel line clunk | Available from Tower |
| Double-sided tape | Used to keep the tank in place |
| Foam rubber | Used to reduce resonance |
| Tank location | Tank should be close to the CG point to avoid excessive nose-pushing |
| Tank mounting | Double straps made from hook and loop material |
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What You'll Learn
Try an anti-foam fuel tank kit to reduce vibration
If you're experiencing issues with engine vibration causing fuel foaming in your RC fuel tank, you may want to consider trying an anti-foam fuel tank kit. This solution has been recommended by several RC enthusiasts online, particularly for Saito engines which are known to experience high levels of vibration.
Anti-foam fuel tank kits are designed to prevent foaming in the fuel line, which can be caused by mechanical vibration. While some model fuels contain anti-foaming agents, these are not always effective in preventing foaming due to the nature of the vibration. By installing an anti-foam kit, you can directly address the issue of fuel foaming and improve the performance of your RC aircraft.
One option for an anti-foam fuel tank kit is the one offered by Outlaw Hobby Products, which has been specifically recommended by RC enthusiasts. This kit is designed to work with profile pilots and 3D RC flights. While it may not solve all vibration issues, it offers a cheap and effective solution to the problem of fuel foaming.
In addition to anti-foam kits, there are other methods to reduce vibration in RC fuel tanks. Some RC enthusiasts have suggested using a combination of Du-Bro-type foam, rubber bands, and a clunk from Tower to minimize vibration and prevent foaming. Others have recommended checking valve clearance and adjusting the settings to ensure optimal performance.
By experimenting with different solutions, such as anti-foam fuel tank kits, foam pads, and proper valve adjustments, you can effectively reduce vibration in your RC fuel tank and improve the overall stability and performance of your aircraft.
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Use a different engine, like a YS or electric engine
While there are a number of ways to reduce vibration in an RC fuel tank, one effective method is to use a different engine, such as a YS or electric engine.
YS engines are known for their power and performance, and they can be a great choice for those seeking a smooth and efficient experience. These engines feature a supercharging system that increases power and a pressurized fuel delivery system, which helps to reduce vibration. The YS 1.4 engine, in particular, has been praised for its smooth idle and low vibration levels. However, YS engines can be expensive to operate, requiring high-quality fuel and regular maintenance to keep the reed valve clean.
On the other hand, electric engines offer a completely different experience with no vibration at all. Electric engines are known for their smooth and quiet operation, making them a popular choice among RC enthusiasts. They eliminate the need for fuel and the associated issues with foaming and bubbling, providing a more consistent and reliable performance.
When deciding between a YS or electric engine, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. YS engines may be better suited for those seeking high performance and are willing to invest in maintenance and fuel. Electric engines, on the other hand, offer a vibration-free experience and are a more economical and environmentally friendly option.
Ultimately, the choice between a YS or electric engine will depend on your individual requirements and budget. Both options offer significant advantages over traditional fuel engines in terms of vibration reduction, and can greatly enhance the performance and enjoyment of your RC vehicle.
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Balance the props and engine mount
Balancing the props and engine mount is key to reducing vibration in your RC fuel tank. Here are some detailed steps to help you achieve this:
Firstly, ensure that your propeller is balanced. An unbalanced propeller can cause excessive vibration, as can a faulty spinner. Check that your spinner is in good condition and securely attached. If you have a weak or damaged engine box, or one that is too light-duty, this can also contribute to vibrations, so consider upgrading to a stronger, more robust engine box.
Next, inspect your standoff fittings. Loose or sloppy standoffs can lead to vibrations, so make sure they are tight and secure. Additionally, check your engine's idle speed. If it is set too low, it can cause the engine to vibrate, especially at lower RPMs. Adjusting the idle speed to a slightly higher setting may help reduce vibrations.
Another factor to consider is the size and weight of your propeller. If your propeller is too heavy, it can cause excessive power pulses that the airframe may not be able to absorb, resulting in vibrations. You may need to experiment with different propeller sizes and weights to find the optimal setup that minimizes vibrations.
Finally, pay attention to harmonic matches. At certain RPM settings, you may experience harmonic vibrations where control surfaces shake. This can be dangerous, so it's important to monitor your engine's performance closely and make adjustments as necessary.
By following these steps and paying attention to the finer details, you should be able to significantly reduce vibrations in your RC fuel tank by achieving a well-balanced setup for your props and engine mount.
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Use a vibration measurement app to assess the issue
Vibration measurement apps are a great way to assess the issue of RC fuel tank vibration. These apps, available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play, can turn your smartphone or tablet into a seismograph or seismometer. They use the accelerometer in your device to detect and measure vibrations, shocks, and even the tiniest seismic waves.
One such app is the Vibration Meter, which can measure the strength of vibrations from various sources, including the human body and objects around you. It can also detect seismic activity, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and avalanches. The app presents the data as a graph, showing ground motion over time on the three Cartesian axes. This information can be incredibly useful for understanding the impact of vibrations on your RC fuel tank.
Another similar app, also called Vibration Meter, is available on Google Play. This app is highly sensitive and can detect even the slightest vibrations. Users have found it useful for testing vibration insulation in devices like turntables. It also allows you to monitor and share your measurements with other users.
In addition to these, there are apps like Vibration Meter & Sound Meter, which not only measure vibrations but also sound levels. While this app may provide slightly different measurements depending on the environment or phone used, it is still a valuable tool for reference and understanding the extent of the vibration issue in your RC fuel tank.
By utilizing these vibration measurement apps, you can gain valuable insights into the vibrations affecting your RC fuel tank. This information can then guide you in implementing effective solutions to reduce the vibrations and improve the performance and stability of your RC vehicle.
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Try a different type of fuel, like high nitro fuel
Switching to a different type of fuel, such as high nitro fuel, can be a solution to reducing vibration in your RC fuel tank. Nitro fuel typically contains methanol, nitromethane, and oil, along with additives like anti-corrosion or degumming agents. The percentage of nitromethane in the fuel usually ranges from 10% to 40% or higher, and this concentration is crucial when choosing the right nitro fuel for your RC engine size.
Engines that are .12 - .18 generally use 10 to 20 percent nitro fuel, while engines that are .21 - .26 or .27 typically require a higher percentage, ranging from 20 to 40 percent. It is important to note that switching nitro fuels should be done cautiously, as it can impact the performance of your RC vehicle. Small changes in nitro concentration are generally safe, but significant variations can lead to a decline in performance or even damage the engine if not properly tuned.
Additionally, it is recommended to stick to the same brand of nitro fuel, even if you are changing the nitromethane percentage. This is because different brands may use varying types or percentages of oil and additives, and simultaneously changing multiple factors can make it challenging to identify any issues that may arise.
Before making any fuel changes, it is essential to consider the recommended fuel for your specific RC vehicle and brand. While nitro fuel can be beneficial in reducing vibration, it is crucial to approach fuel changes with caution and make adjustments gradually, closely monitoring the performance of your RC vehicle.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that some RC enthusiasts have reported that certain engines, like the Saito 82, tend to run with higher vibration levels, and switching to a different engine type might be another solution to consider if the issue persists. Overall, reducing vibration in your RC fuel tank involves a degree of trial and error, and a combination of adjustments, such as fuel type, engine choice, and proper tuning, may be required to achieve the desired results.
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Frequently asked questions
Try using anti-foam agents in your fuel. You can also try using a different engine, as some engines vibrate more than others.
The power pulses from the engine can cause the fuel tank to vibrate. Some engines vibrate more than others, and this can be due to manufacturing tolerances or the type of engine.
Engine vibration can cause foaming or bubbles in the fuel tank and lines, which can lead to engine surging. It can also cause the tank to move around and rub against the airframe, potentially damaging the tank.
