[NSRCA-discussion] Rules Proposals

[Dave Burton]

Hi Phil, Haven't see you at any contest in a while either. Join us in some
AMA contest and I'll try making some SPA events too. I still got SPA planes
to fly.

You are correct, no one is forcing me to fly electric. I make the choice
because It's cheaper for me. Fuel vs. batteries cost is close to a wash
today, but motors are cheaper than glow (at least the heavier AXI and Hi
Maxx I use). There is less wear and tear and maintenance on radio equipment,
less wear and tear on airframes, Less field equipment to maintain and I save
a bunch on oil cleanup supplies and paper towels.

 

From: nsrca-discussion-bounces at lists.nsrca.org
[mailto:nsrca-discussion-bounces at lists.nsrca.org] On Behalf Of Phil S.
Sent: Sunday, March 18, 2012 3:03 PM
To: General pattern discussion
Subject: Re: [NSRCA-discussion] Rules Proposals

 

First, Dave, I haven't seen you at an event is several years -- t'would be
good to see you again!  Second, I have not seen anyhone doing anything
forcing pilots to fly electric in pattern.  That is a choice each person
makes freely.  That said, I, too, have always wondered why the weighing
parameters are what they are -- without fuel but with batteries.  I have
never come across a rationale for that difference.  Anyone out there know
why?  The only difference in the two power systems I can see is that fuel
burns off and the plane gets lighter during a flight, but the battery always
weighs what it weighs, but I don't see why that would matter...

On 3/18/2012 2:06 PM, Dave Burton wrote: 

George,

Yours is an interesting post. In an environment where we are all flying the
same power systems I think you would be spot on. However, what I'd like to
see is a change that accounts for the fact that glow planes must make 5Kg
without fuel and electric must make 5Kg with fuel. In order for comparable
planes to comply with the weight it's necessary for electric to use more
hi-tech and expensive components, lighter less durable building techniques,
more expensive and lighter accessories, etc. thus increasing the cost.
Almost every glow 2M plane takes off above 5Kg and flies at above 5Kg the
entire sequence. I know there are exceptions but I think it's generally
true.  I know I could choose to fly glow and not have an issue. However I
want the advantages of electric without having to pay a significant cost
penalty to do so. Let's fix the inequity of this in the AMA classes.

Dave Burton

-- 
Phil Spelt, KCRC President
AMA 1294 Scientific Leader Member
SPA 177 Board Member
(865) 435-1476v, (865) 604-0541c
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