PLEASE WRITE in with your questions;
that is the only way we can keep this
column format going. When referring to
already published Qs and As (for followups),
provide the number as a reference.
References to
addresses and Web
sites are placed in a
group, separate
from the text, at the
end of this column
under “Sources.”
Q457: “I keep
hearing reference to
something called
‘wing washout.’
Can you tell me
what it means and
do I need to use it
on my model
aircraft?”
A457: I’ve been
waiting for this
question; now I
finally have my
chance. I’ll tell you
what it is and why
you would want to
use it, but the
82 MODEL AVIATION
technical description would take a great deal
of magazine space. So at the end of my
comments I’ll give you a Web site reference
that you can use as a starting point.
Wing washout is used to prevent what is
called “tip stalling.” Many models with
wings that taper to smaller chords at the tips
tend to drop off or stall when flying speed is
reduced. In some cases a stall can occur
suddenly, and this is especially true when
the aircraft is slowing for a landing.
Having a forward CG position and/or a
larger stabilizer area can help prevent tip
stalling, but scale-model accuracy often
dictates something less than good
aerodynamics. In those cases, wing washout
can help prevent the stalling problem from
becoming a disaster.
Washout results from raising the wingtip
a few degrees at the TE. I’ve included
several photos to give you an example of
what I am describing. You can build
washout into the model structure by simply
blocking up and raising the wing TE off of
the building board.
When you have a good solid wing
structure, building in washout at the start is
the best suggestion. But sometimes you can
introduce washout to a wing that is
completed and already covered.
Wing washout
Having applied heat, Bob points to upward angle that has created
washout at the tip. Roughly 1/2 inch resulted from the twisting and
heating.
On an already covered wing, Bob placed a heavy weight at the center and then gripped
the tip and twisted it for washout angle. While holding that position, he applies heat to
both sides with a heat gun. When cool, the angle will remain.
One way to put washout in a wing is to
build it in from the start. Mock-up shows
wing TE lifted at the tip. The washout
angle is then part of the structure.
Also included in this column:
• Adhesive-backed decal paper
• An RC podcast: What is it?
• Something new for this column
• Paper CL display models
Bob Aberle | baberle@? Frequently Asked Questions optonline.net
08sig3x.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 6/25/10 9:35 AM Page 82
84 MODEL AVIATION
Merely anchor
the center-section
and then grab the
wing at the tip, and
then twist it so that
the TE is lifted
somewhat. While
holding that position
with one hand, apply
heat from a
modeler’s heat gun
and smooth the
wrinkles that the
twisting motion
created. Evenly
apply heat to the top
and bottom wing
surfaces.
Word of caution:
try to get the same
amount of washout
in both wingtips.
Failure to do so will
result in a rolling effect similar to what you
get with an ordinary wing warp.
There is no specified amount for
washout. You can start with a few degrees,
and then make a check flight at a higher
altitude to determine the speed and direction
at which a stall occurs. If that’s not enough,
add more washout.
The wing that drops first in the stall has
the tip that needs more washout. It is an
easy process.
I’ve included in the “Sources” a good
technical commentary about wing washout;
it’s posted on the Wikipedia Web site. Quite
a few more Web sites are available on
which you can learn about this subject. Type
“wing washout” into a search engine if you
are curious and want more information.
Q458: “I took your suggestion a while back
and tried the water transfer decal paper. The
decals I made worked well on painted
surfaces. But applying these decals to ironon
covered surfaces left something to be
desired.
“What I would really like is a decal
paper with an adhesive backing. Is there any
such thing?”
A458: Yes. Fred Randall recommended a
product to me that will satisfy your needs.
It’s Crystal Clear Labels for Inkjet Printers,
which is sold by Desktop Publishing
Supplies.
Although the paper is referred to as
“labels,” it actually consists of full-size
sheets that measure 81/4 x 103/4 inches. The
catalog number is 60000-10; you get 10 of
these sheets for $7.95 plus shipping.
I was able to photograph (or scan) an
aircraft-company logo, transfer the digital
image to a Microsoft Word file, and then
print a series of these decals on my Epson
ink-jet printer. Once printed, I cut out the
decal, peeled off the protective backing, and
applied the image.
The last step was to mist on a light coat
of Krylon-brand Crystal Clear Acrylic that
is available in either a gloss or a matte
finish. If you prefer, you can apply the clear
spray sealant before transferring the decal to
the model.
Q459: “I see lots of new names appearing
on the Internet like Facebook and Twitter.
Recently another new name caught my
attention, ‘Podcast.’ Can you tell me what
this is all about and if there is anything that
might pertain to our hobby of model
aircraft?”
A459: The term “podcast” is a combination
of the words “broadcast” and “iPod.” A
podcast sends digital media files, that can be
either audio or video, via the Internet, where
they can be downloaded.
Then you can listen to or see these files
on cell phones, personal computers, iPods
and MP3 players, etc. A good writeup about
podcasts is posted on the Wikipedia Web
site; I have included the address in the
“Sources” section.
Albert Tejera of TME in Riverview,
Florida, offers podcast-type audio programs
for the benefit of model aircraft enthusiasts.
He has released three shows that you can
download (for free) from his Web site. The
address is in the “Sources” list.
One of the categories is the “RC
Aerobatics Podcast.” It features interviews
with top competitive RC pilots such as Dave
Patrick, Mike McConville, George Hicks,
and others. Subjects include 3-D flying, RC
Aerobatics, and IMAC (International
Miniature Aerobatic Club) tips. The
programs are presented in an informal style,
to make the listener a better pilot.
Another series is “RC Quick Tips,” and
it covers almost anything involving RC
aircraft. Albert created “RC Electronics
Tips” to help you obtain the electronics
knowledge you need to advance in the
hobby. This presentation features a variety
of subjects, such as glow starters, servos,
ignition systems, power-distribution
systems, and electric power.
License letters in two sizes and the model’s
name in script were all ink-jet-copied to
adhesive-backed decal paper. This works
much better when placing decals on aircraft
with iron-on covering.
Home page of the RCpodcast.com site
that Albert Tejera created. It features
instructional audio presentations on
various RC-oriented subjects.
Monique Affonso holds two of her father,
Eduardo’s, Nobler CL models. You can
download patterns and instructions for
this and other display paper designs from
his Web site.
Desktop Publishing Supplies sells decal paper with adhesive backing.
Bob photocopied an aircraft logo and printed it on the decal paper
with an ink-jet printer. He cut out the resulting image and
transferred it to the model’s vertical fin (at bottom).
08sig3x.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 6/25/10 9:36 AM Page 84
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/08
Page Numbers: 82,84,86
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/08
Page Numbers: 82,84,86
PLEASE WRITE in with your questions;
that is the only way we can keep this
column format going. When referring to
already published Qs and As (for followups),
provide the number as a reference.
References to
addresses and Web
sites are placed in a
group, separate
from the text, at the
end of this column
under “Sources.”
Q457: “I keep
hearing reference to
something called
‘wing washout.’
Can you tell me
what it means and
do I need to use it
on my model
aircraft?”
A457: I’ve been
waiting for this
question; now I
finally have my
chance. I’ll tell you
what it is and why
you would want to
use it, but the
82 MODEL AVIATION
technical description would take a great deal
of magazine space. So at the end of my
comments I’ll give you a Web site reference
that you can use as a starting point.
Wing washout is used to prevent what is
called “tip stalling.” Many models with
wings that taper to smaller chords at the tips
tend to drop off or stall when flying speed is
reduced. In some cases a stall can occur
suddenly, and this is especially true when
the aircraft is slowing for a landing.
Having a forward CG position and/or a
larger stabilizer area can help prevent tip
stalling, but scale-model accuracy often
dictates something less than good
aerodynamics. In those cases, wing washout
can help prevent the stalling problem from
becoming a disaster.
Washout results from raising the wingtip
a few degrees at the TE. I’ve included
several photos to give you an example of
what I am describing. You can build
washout into the model structure by simply
blocking up and raising the wing TE off of
the building board.
When you have a good solid wing
structure, building in washout at the start is
the best suggestion. But sometimes you can
introduce washout to a wing that is
completed and already covered.
Wing washout
Having applied heat, Bob points to upward angle that has created
washout at the tip. Roughly 1/2 inch resulted from the twisting and
heating.
On an already covered wing, Bob placed a heavy weight at the center and then gripped
the tip and twisted it for washout angle. While holding that position, he applies heat to
both sides with a heat gun. When cool, the angle will remain.
One way to put washout in a wing is to
build it in from the start. Mock-up shows
wing TE lifted at the tip. The washout
angle is then part of the structure.
Also included in this column:
• Adhesive-backed decal paper
• An RC podcast: What is it?
• Something new for this column
• Paper CL display models
Bob Aberle | baberle@? Frequently Asked Questions optonline.net
08sig3x.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 6/25/10 9:35 AM Page 82
84 MODEL AVIATION
Merely anchor
the center-section
and then grab the
wing at the tip, and
then twist it so that
the TE is lifted
somewhat. While
holding that position
with one hand, apply
heat from a
modeler’s heat gun
and smooth the
wrinkles that the
twisting motion
created. Evenly
apply heat to the top
and bottom wing
surfaces.
Word of caution:
try to get the same
amount of washout
in both wingtips.
Failure to do so will
result in a rolling effect similar to what you
get with an ordinary wing warp.
There is no specified amount for
washout. You can start with a few degrees,
and then make a check flight at a higher
altitude to determine the speed and direction
at which a stall occurs. If that’s not enough,
add more washout.
The wing that drops first in the stall has
the tip that needs more washout. It is an
easy process.
I’ve included in the “Sources” a good
technical commentary about wing washout;
it’s posted on the Wikipedia Web site. Quite
a few more Web sites are available on
which you can learn about this subject. Type
“wing washout” into a search engine if you
are curious and want more information.
Q458: “I took your suggestion a while back
and tried the water transfer decal paper. The
decals I made worked well on painted
surfaces. But applying these decals to ironon
covered surfaces left something to be
desired.
“What I would really like is a decal
paper with an adhesive backing. Is there any
such thing?”
A458: Yes. Fred Randall recommended a
product to me that will satisfy your needs.
It’s Crystal Clear Labels for Inkjet Printers,
which is sold by Desktop Publishing
Supplies.
Although the paper is referred to as
“labels,” it actually consists of full-size
sheets that measure 81/4 x 103/4 inches. The
catalog number is 60000-10; you get 10 of
these sheets for $7.95 plus shipping.
I was able to photograph (or scan) an
aircraft-company logo, transfer the digital
image to a Microsoft Word file, and then
print a series of these decals on my Epson
ink-jet printer. Once printed, I cut out the
decal, peeled off the protective backing, and
applied the image.
The last step was to mist on a light coat
of Krylon-brand Crystal Clear Acrylic that
is available in either a gloss or a matte
finish. If you prefer, you can apply the clear
spray sealant before transferring the decal to
the model.
Q459: “I see lots of new names appearing
on the Internet like Facebook and Twitter.
Recently another new name caught my
attention, ‘Podcast.’ Can you tell me what
this is all about and if there is anything that
might pertain to our hobby of model
aircraft?”
A459: The term “podcast” is a combination
of the words “broadcast” and “iPod.” A
podcast sends digital media files, that can be
either audio or video, via the Internet, where
they can be downloaded.
Then you can listen to or see these files
on cell phones, personal computers, iPods
and MP3 players, etc. A good writeup about
podcasts is posted on the Wikipedia Web
site; I have included the address in the
“Sources” section.
Albert Tejera of TME in Riverview,
Florida, offers podcast-type audio programs
for the benefit of model aircraft enthusiasts.
He has released three shows that you can
download (for free) from his Web site. The
address is in the “Sources” list.
One of the categories is the “RC
Aerobatics Podcast.” It features interviews
with top competitive RC pilots such as Dave
Patrick, Mike McConville, George Hicks,
and others. Subjects include 3-D flying, RC
Aerobatics, and IMAC (International
Miniature Aerobatic Club) tips. The
programs are presented in an informal style,
to make the listener a better pilot.
Another series is “RC Quick Tips,” and
it covers almost anything involving RC
aircraft. Albert created “RC Electronics
Tips” to help you obtain the electronics
knowledge you need to advance in the
hobby. This presentation features a variety
of subjects, such as glow starters, servos,
ignition systems, power-distribution
systems, and electric power.
License letters in two sizes and the model’s
name in script were all ink-jet-copied to
adhesive-backed decal paper. This works
much better when placing decals on aircraft
with iron-on covering.
Home page of the RCpodcast.com site
that Albert Tejera created. It features
instructional audio presentations on
various RC-oriented subjects.
Monique Affonso holds two of her father,
Eduardo’s, Nobler CL models. You can
download patterns and instructions for
this and other display paper designs from
his Web site.
Desktop Publishing Supplies sells decal paper with adhesive backing.
Bob photocopied an aircraft logo and printed it on the decal paper
with an ink-jet printer. He cut out the resulting image and
transferred it to the model’s vertical fin (at bottom).
08sig3x.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 6/25/10 9:36 AM Page 84
Edition: Model Aviation - 2010/08
Page Numbers: 82,84,86
PLEASE WRITE in with your questions;
that is the only way we can keep this
column format going. When referring to
already published Qs and As (for followups),
provide the number as a reference.
References to
addresses and Web
sites are placed in a
group, separate
from the text, at the
end of this column
under “Sources.”
Q457: “I keep
hearing reference to
something called
‘wing washout.’
Can you tell me
what it means and
do I need to use it
on my model
aircraft?”
A457: I’ve been
waiting for this
question; now I
finally have my
chance. I’ll tell you
what it is and why
you would want to
use it, but the
82 MODEL AVIATION
technical description would take a great deal
of magazine space. So at the end of my
comments I’ll give you a Web site reference
that you can use as a starting point.
Wing washout is used to prevent what is
called “tip stalling.” Many models with
wings that taper to smaller chords at the tips
tend to drop off or stall when flying speed is
reduced. In some cases a stall can occur
suddenly, and this is especially true when
the aircraft is slowing for a landing.
Having a forward CG position and/or a
larger stabilizer area can help prevent tip
stalling, but scale-model accuracy often
dictates something less than good
aerodynamics. In those cases, wing washout
can help prevent the stalling problem from
becoming a disaster.
Washout results from raising the wingtip
a few degrees at the TE. I’ve included
several photos to give you an example of
what I am describing. You can build
washout into the model structure by simply
blocking up and raising the wing TE off of
the building board.
When you have a good solid wing
structure, building in washout at the start is
the best suggestion. But sometimes you can
introduce washout to a wing that is
completed and already covered.
Wing washout
Having applied heat, Bob points to upward angle that has created
washout at the tip. Roughly 1/2 inch resulted from the twisting and
heating.
On an already covered wing, Bob placed a heavy weight at the center and then gripped
the tip and twisted it for washout angle. While holding that position, he applies heat to
both sides with a heat gun. When cool, the angle will remain.
One way to put washout in a wing is to
build it in from the start. Mock-up shows
wing TE lifted at the tip. The washout
angle is then part of the structure.
Also included in this column:
• Adhesive-backed decal paper
• An RC podcast: What is it?
• Something new for this column
• Paper CL display models
Bob Aberle | baberle@? Frequently Asked Questions optonline.net
08sig3x.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 6/25/10 9:35 AM Page 82
84 MODEL AVIATION
Merely anchor
the center-section
and then grab the
wing at the tip, and
then twist it so that
the TE is lifted
somewhat. While
holding that position
with one hand, apply
heat from a
modeler’s heat gun
and smooth the
wrinkles that the
twisting motion
created. Evenly
apply heat to the top
and bottom wing
surfaces.
Word of caution:
try to get the same
amount of washout
in both wingtips.
Failure to do so will
result in a rolling effect similar to what you
get with an ordinary wing warp.
There is no specified amount for
washout. You can start with a few degrees,
and then make a check flight at a higher
altitude to determine the speed and direction
at which a stall occurs. If that’s not enough,
add more washout.
The wing that drops first in the stall has
the tip that needs more washout. It is an
easy process.
I’ve included in the “Sources” a good
technical commentary about wing washout;
it’s posted on the Wikipedia Web site. Quite
a few more Web sites are available on
which you can learn about this subject. Type
“wing washout” into a search engine if you
are curious and want more information.
Q458: “I took your suggestion a while back
and tried the water transfer decal paper. The
decals I made worked well on painted
surfaces. But applying these decals to ironon
covered surfaces left something to be
desired.
“What I would really like is a decal
paper with an adhesive backing. Is there any
such thing?”
A458: Yes. Fred Randall recommended a
product to me that will satisfy your needs.
It’s Crystal Clear Labels for Inkjet Printers,
which is sold by Desktop Publishing
Supplies.
Although the paper is referred to as
“labels,” it actually consists of full-size
sheets that measure 81/4 x 103/4 inches. The
catalog number is 60000-10; you get 10 of
these sheets for $7.95 plus shipping.
I was able to photograph (or scan) an
aircraft-company logo, transfer the digital
image to a Microsoft Word file, and then
print a series of these decals on my Epson
ink-jet printer. Once printed, I cut out the
decal, peeled off the protective backing, and
applied the image.
The last step was to mist on a light coat
of Krylon-brand Crystal Clear Acrylic that
is available in either a gloss or a matte
finish. If you prefer, you can apply the clear
spray sealant before transferring the decal to
the model.
Q459: “I see lots of new names appearing
on the Internet like Facebook and Twitter.
Recently another new name caught my
attention, ‘Podcast.’ Can you tell me what
this is all about and if there is anything that
might pertain to our hobby of model
aircraft?”
A459: The term “podcast” is a combination
of the words “broadcast” and “iPod.” A
podcast sends digital media files, that can be
either audio or video, via the Internet, where
they can be downloaded.
Then you can listen to or see these files
on cell phones, personal computers, iPods
and MP3 players, etc. A good writeup about
podcasts is posted on the Wikipedia Web
site; I have included the address in the
“Sources” section.
Albert Tejera of TME in Riverview,
Florida, offers podcast-type audio programs
for the benefit of model aircraft enthusiasts.
He has released three shows that you can
download (for free) from his Web site. The
address is in the “Sources” list.
One of the categories is the “RC
Aerobatics Podcast.” It features interviews
with top competitive RC pilots such as Dave
Patrick, Mike McConville, George Hicks,
and others. Subjects include 3-D flying, RC
Aerobatics, and IMAC (International
Miniature Aerobatic Club) tips. The
programs are presented in an informal style,
to make the listener a better pilot.
Another series is “RC Quick Tips,” and
it covers almost anything involving RC
aircraft. Albert created “RC Electronics
Tips” to help you obtain the electronics
knowledge you need to advance in the
hobby. This presentation features a variety
of subjects, such as glow starters, servos,
ignition systems, power-distribution
systems, and electric power.
License letters in two sizes and the model’s
name in script were all ink-jet-copied to
adhesive-backed decal paper. This works
much better when placing decals on aircraft
with iron-on covering.
Home page of the RCpodcast.com site
that Albert Tejera created. It features
instructional audio presentations on
various RC-oriented subjects.
Monique Affonso holds two of her father,
Eduardo’s, Nobler CL models. You can
download patterns and instructions for
this and other display paper designs from
his Web site.
Desktop Publishing Supplies sells decal paper with adhesive backing.
Bob photocopied an aircraft logo and printed it on the decal paper
with an ink-jet printer. He cut out the resulting image and
transferred it to the model’s vertical fin (at bottom).
08sig3x.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 6/25/10 9:36 AM Page 84
