Re: Covering with condenser paper

From: Bill Gowen <b.gowen_at_earthlink.net>
Date: Wed, 21 Feb 2007 17:55:43 -0500

Paper covering on an indoor model is no picnic and it's much harder for a beginner than Mylar in my opinion. I have no explanation why the A6 rules require paper. Paper covering also makes it harder to get under the minimum weight. I doubt that this rule will ever change because of all the existing A6's that are covered with paper.

Here's a few answers from personal experience:

I use thinned Duco to attach condenser paper. Some people have good results with glue sticks.
I iron the paper with a steam iron. I put a smooth towel under and over the paper before doing this.
The grain goes spanwise.
I put in dihedral breaks before covering and then cut little pieces of paper with curved edges to put on the wingtips. I hate this part!
I use a new double edge razor blade to trim. New means never used for anything. I trim from the top so I can push down against the edge of the spar with the blade.

To me the biggest challenge of the A6 class is the short motor stick and the long motors that are required. But after all my grousing I'll have to admit that my second A6 came out pretty competitive and it's a fun class to fly.


  ----- Original Message -----
  From: rreyno2001
  To: Indoor_Construction_at_yahoogroups.com
  Sent: Wednesday, February 21, 2007 5:37 PM
  Subject: [Indoor_Construction] Covering with condenser paper


  I have built a few A6's trying to get my indoor building chops up to
  snuff. I have also built but haven't flown an F1L. Rignt now I
  would have to say that the F1L is much easier to finish because of
  the covering. The mylar/3M77 with a cautery is easy and quick where
  the condenser paper techniques are time consuming and frustrating
  for me. I understand this is likely due to inexperience.

  So.....

  What do you use for the adhesive?

  Do you shrink or iron or wrinkle the paper?

  Long grain with the span?

  I use those thin sharp double edge razors to trim but it ain't easy.
  Is there a method?

  I wouldn't think given my experiences so far that I would recommend
  an A6 to a beginner just because of the covering. This class would
  be much more likely to fulfill it's intent as an entry level class
  if Mylar were allowed.



   

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Received on Wed Feb 21 2007 - 15:00:01 CET