Rajan Wilcox
The fuel tank is an essential component of an RC airplane, and its placement is critical to the aircraft's performance and safety. The location of the fuel tank affects the centre of gravity (CG) and the overall weight distribution of the plane. While installing a fuel tank may seem straightforward, a simple mistake in plumbing can lead to costly consequences. This article will explore the factors that influence the mounting position of the fuel tank and provide insights into optimizing its location for a seamless flying experience. By understanding the dynamics of fluid mechanics and hydraulics, RC enthusiasts can fine-tune their aircraft's performance and enjoy longer, safer flights.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Considerations | The fuel tank's location should consider its effect on the centre of gravity (CG) of the plane. |
| The centreline of the fuel tank should be at the same level as the engine's centreline. | |
| The tank should be placed close to the CG point to prevent the nose from dipping when full and the CG from shifting when fuel is used up. | |
| Installation | Kits and ARF's may come with a fuel tank or recommend a size. |
| A larger fuel tank will allow for longer flight times. | |
| The tank elevation is not critical for RC gas engines with fuel pumps. | |
| A larger tank will affect the centre of gravity as fuel is burned. | |
| The tank should be placed close to its optimum location. | |
| The tank should not be placed too high, or gravity will make it harder for the engine to draw fuel. | |
| Fuel lines | The fuel suction line should be connected to the tubing, with a fuel "clunk" attached to the other end. |
| The tubing length should be sized so the clunk is near the bottom of the tank and can swing freely. | |
| The clunk acts as a weight, ensuring the suction line is always submerged in fuel. | |
| A second fuel suction line can be added for filling and draining the tank. |
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What You'll Learn
The impact of the fuel tank on the centre of gravity
The placement of the fuel tank in an RC airplane is important as it can impact the centre of gravity (CG). The CG is the mean point where all gravitational forces act upon the plane, and the point where the plane balances fore-aft correctly. It is determined during the design stage and is typically shown on a plan as a disc split into four quadrants. The CG position is critical to the overall flight experience and can be the difference between a successful flight and a crash.
The fuel tank's location can affect the CG. It is recommended to place the tank as close as possible to the CG point, so that when full, it does not push the nose down excessively. Similarly, when the fuel is burned off and weight is lost, the CG won't shift to the rear, a condition that can alter the handling of some planes dramatically. Therefore, it is important to consider the size of the fuel tank and the amount of fuel needed for a decent flight time.
The larger the tank, the more the CG will change as the fuel is burned. It is recommended to use the size of the tank that is specified in the plane's instructions. However, it is possible to use a slightly larger or smaller tank. When using a glow engine, the centre-line of the fuel tank should be about the same level as the high-speed needle valve. When using an RC gas engine with a fuel pump, the tank elevation is less critical, but if the tank is too large, it can throw off the balance and the engine may not run consistently when diving or climbing.
To balance an RC plane, it must be 'flight-ready', meaning the fuel tank should be empty. The plane should be balanced either by adjusting the battery pack or adding ballast. The ballast should be added as far forward or backward as possible to have the most effect on the CG. Only enough ballast should be added to make the plane balance correctly. Suitable ballast includes modelling clay, fishing shots, or thin sheet lead.
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The importance of following manufacturer instructions
Installing a fuel tank in an RC airplane is a simple process, but it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the engine functions correctly and the plane is safe to fly. The manufacturer's instructions will provide essential information on the correct fuel tank placement, as well as the pre-flight checks that are necessary to ensure the plane is in a fit condition to fly.
The location of the fuel tank in an RC airplane is important. The manufacturer's instructions will indicate the best position for the tank in the airframe. It is important to consider the centre of gravity (CG) when placing the fuel tank. The CG of the plane will shift as fuel is burned, and placing the tank too far forward or back can alter the handling of the plane. The manufacturer's instructions will help to ensure the correct placement of the fuel tank to maintain the proper balance of the plane.
The manufacturer's instructions will also provide guidance on the correct size of the fuel tank. Using a tank that is too large can affect the balance of the plane and cause the engine to run inconsistently when diving or climbing. By following the manufacturer's recommendations, you can ensure that you are using a fuel tank that is the appropriate size for your plane.
In addition to installation instructions, the manufacturer will also provide important pre-flight checks that must be performed before each flight. These checks are essential to ensure the safety and functionality of the plane. They include checking that all control surfaces are moving and secured correctly and that the motor power and radio failsafe are working properly. One of the most important pre-flight checks is the range check, which ensures that the radio signal from the transmitter to the receiver is strong enough to maintain control of the plane during flight. By following the manufacturer's instructions for pre-flight checks, you can help to prevent crashes and ensure the safe operation of your RC airplane.
Overall, following the manufacturer's instructions is crucial when installing a fuel tank in an RC airplane and performing pre-flight checks. It ensures the correct placement and sizing of the fuel tank, maintains the proper balance of the plane, and helps to prevent crashes and ensure the safe operation of the aircraft.
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The need for a basic understanding of fluid dynamics
Installing a fuel tank in an RC airplane is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to remember the basics of plumbing to ensure that your engine functions correctly throughout the flight. While it is not necessary to be an expert in fluid dynamics, a basic understanding of these principles is beneficial.
The location of the fuel tank in an RC airplane is an important consideration. The tank's position can impact the centre of gravity (CG) of the aircraft. Ideally, the tank should be placed as close as possible to the CG point to prevent the nose from dipping down excessively when the tank is full. It is also important to consider the change in CG as fuel is burned off and weight is lost during flight. A shift in CG can alter the handling of the plane. To mitigate this, it is recommended to use the size of the fuel tank recommended by the manufacturer. While it is generally acceptable to use a slightly larger or smaller tank, a tank that is too large can affect the balance of the aircraft and impact the engine's performance during diving or climbing.
The fuel tank's location can also impact the plumbing of the fuel system. The fuel lines, carburetor, and throttle servo must be properly connected to ensure the engine receives an adequate fuel supply. The length of the fuel lines and the positioning of the carburetor may need to be adjusted based on the fuel tank's location.
Additionally, the fuel tank should be securely mounted to prevent it from rubbing against the airframe and developing holes. This can be achieved using foam rubber, double-sided tape, and straps to hold the tank firmly in place while allowing for easy removal if necessary.
Understanding the basics of fluid dynamics can help RC airplane enthusiasts make more informed decisions about fuel tank placement and fuel system plumbing. While it may not be necessary to delve into complex mathematics or engineering, a basic grasp of fluid dynamics principles can aid in troubleshooting and optimizing the performance of the aircraft.
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The use of foam rubber to prevent damage to the airframe
When mounting a fuel tank in an RC airplane, it is important to consider the effect on the centre of gravity (CG). The tank should be mounted as close as possible to the CG point, so that when full, it does not push the nose down excessively. As the fuel is burned off and weight is lost, the CG will shift to the rear, which can alter the handling of some planes dramatically.
To prevent the tank from rubbing against the airframe and developing a hole, tanks are usually mounted on a layer of foam rubber. This foam rubber is typically ½”-thick and is held in place with double-sided tape between it and the airframe. A strip of double-sided tape is also placed between the tank bottom and the foam to keep everything in place. Double straps made from hook and loop material can also be used to hold the tank firmly, while still allowing for it to be removed if necessary.
Additionally, the type of foam rubber used can impact the effectiveness of this protective layer. EPS foam, for example, is lightweight and rigid but may not be suitable for larger or more advanced RC plane models as it is less strong and rigid than other types of foam. It is also more prone to damage from impacts and rough handling. On the other hand, EPO foam is denser and more resistant to damage than EPS foam. Different grades of EPO foam are available, with heavier and stronger foam being used for areas of the plane that require more durability, such as the wing roots.
To further enhance the protection of the airframe, additional measures can be taken. For instance, clear packing tape can be used to wrap the fuselage and wings, stiffening the foam and protecting it from damage. Heat-applied coverings, such as Doculam clear laminating film, can also resist gasoline and protect the foam from fuel soakage. However, it is important to seal the edges to prevent peeling over time.
Overall, by using foam rubber and considering the type and thickness, as well as employing additional protective measures, the airframe of an RC airplane can be effectively safeguarded from damage caused by the fuel tank.
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The process of connecting the throttle arm to the carburettor
Firstly, it is important to consider the placement of the fuel tank. The capacity and location of the fuel tank can impact the centre of gravity of the airplane, especially as fuel is burned and weight is lost. You should refer to the instructions provided with your plane to determine the best position for the tank. It is recommended to position the tank so that its centreline aligns with the centreline of the engine. To prevent the tank from shifting and rubbing against the airframe, it is typically mounted on a layer of foam rubber with double-sided tape and secured with straps.
Now, we can begin the process of connecting the throttle arm. Firstly, set the linkage length so that the centres of the ball links align exactly over the centres of the throttle and servo arms. Measure the distance from the centre of the servo output shaft to the centre of the carburettor output shaft, and adjust the ball link accordingly. Alternatively, adjust the linkage rod until the centre of the rod end holes align with the centres of the output shafts.
Next, place a linkage ball about 13mm from the centre on the carburettor arm. This distance may vary depending on your engine, but the idea is to allow for sufficient travel adjust during the setup process. Refer to the instructions or directions provided with your specific engine for guidance on the optimal distance.
Now, set the servo arm at a 90-degree angle to a line from the centres of the servo and throttle arms. This step is crucial to ensure that you do not encounter strange differentials in the throttle that would be impossible to mix with only a 5-point curve. To aid in this process, you can use a subscription card insert from magazines or RC-focused publications. Align the edge of the card to cover half of the output shaft holes of both the carburettor and the servo, and use the top of the card to position the servo arm, aligning the servo arm holes.
Finally, connect the throttle arm to the carburettor. Due to the fuel tank's placement, you may need to use a flexible cable-type pushrod to make this connection. If the fuel tank is not an obstruction, an aluminium push-rod inside a nylon tube can be used. Refer to the directions provided with your RC airplane to determine the optimal routing and type of pushrod to use. Ensure that the cable or rod slides freely inside the tube without any resistance, and make sure that the outer tube is firmly supported throughout the entire route.
By following these steps, you will have successfully connected the throttle arm to the carburettor in your RC airplane, ensuring optimal performance and functionality during flight.
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Frequently asked questions
The capacity of the tank depends on how you fly and for how long. Harder flying takes more fuel than flying at 50% throttle. It's best to look around and see what tank capacity others are using for similarly-sized engines.
The tank should be mounted as close as possible to the centre of gravity (CG) point. This ensures that the nose doesn't tip down when the tank is full and the CG doesn't shift to the rear when fuel is burned off. The tank is usually mounted on foam rubber to prevent it from rubbing against the airframe and developing a hole.
The centre-line of the fuel tank should be at the same level as the engine's centre-line. However, the elevation isn't critical when using an RC gas engine with a fuel pump.
Yes, you can use a slightly larger tank than the one recommended in the kit's instructions. However, be careful not to use a tank that is too large, as it can affect the balance of the plane and cause the engine to run inconsistently when diving or climbing.
