___John Preston___________________________ Safety Comes First Fuel cans bat teries potential fire explosion hazard spontaneous starting glow diesel engines Hey Balsa-cutting knives can cut people too BOOM Since writing last Safety column received three letters concerning fuel can explo sions ignitions Two letters described actual incidents third contained warning concerning such incidents Strangely enough two letters arrived mailbox simultaneously First explosion read Model Builder magazine may have read ac count fuel can explosion Al Almans Big Birds column Al sent copy draft column together letter suggesting include part Safety column sure everybody gets word about potential fire/explosion hazard may exist fuel cans placed close electrical power source such battery flight box Als entire column follows serious accident occur field . accidents could have avoided Heres what happened club members recently installed 12-volt gel cell battery flight box connected two battery terminals bare alligator clips installed front box Two weeks ago getting ready leave field placed flight box bare clips facing him rear sta tion wagondirectly behind partially-full can glow fuel reached some thing behind flight box pushing can fuel against live alligator clips explosion andinstantly both car showered burn ing fuel immediate reaction quick thinking three flying buddies would have become fatality fire extinguishers hand themtwo spray-can types 2/ pound er five pounderwere used up mainly because alcohol fires insidious Its almost impossible tell flame three vital lessons learned near tragedy Never connect battery bare leads clips 2 Always have fire extinguishers available field wherever else use fuel 3 Never fly alone Remember companion doesnt necessarily have pilot Hes safety backup hapless club member alone wouldnt have chance As turned Out three quick-witted buddies saved life also minimized injuries Because although does face some skin grafting hes already up around feeling much better As mentioned accident could have avoided very real hazard bare live clips pointed out earlier another club member . yet another case someone didnt want take time get job done right paid heckuva price draggin butt comment Als description incident comes form suggestion readers suggest immediately check flight boxes make determina tion whether such incident could happen other letter arrived mail simul taneously Als Chuck Dunham lives Tumwater WA Chuck drew attention article Model Aviation July 1986 issue page 86 described construct Flight Assistant field box mounted wheels illustrated support paraphernalia us regularly haul flying field Photo graphs article showed electric fuel pump mounted directly top metal fuel can Chucks letter began asking anyone Model Aviation checks construc tion articles regarding unsafe construction techniques believe answer question would have yes because have number calls editors concerning other articles safety questionable Mounting electric fuel pump top metal fuel can common practice no ticed number similar arrangements Scale contest attended just week ago As Chuck pointed out letter possibility arcing pump motor could ignite fumes fuel can Also electrical wiring pump contact metal can always possibility insulation could become damaged general wear tear could crack old age Again suggest check own field box determine safety fueling system third letter received subject fuel cans came Rich Torgerson described mysterious fire Rich flying first day two-day air show being put Boise Area Radio Kontrol Society BARKS After Rich performed two suc Continued page 14 4It 1 PEj4APS WE COULD LXI AT TI4IS AS CI4EMICAL EACTION ThAT OCCURS WI4EN tnT AND WOOD COME INTO CONtACT WITHOUT Th 1ESENCE OF Al 12 Model Aviation cessful flight routines discovered forgotten refill metal fuel container before coming air show Although didnt fly again day Rich stayed show until about hour after last flight thunderstorm approached stiffening breeze caused cancellation remainder events Ill use Richs own words describe what happened arrived home unloaded plane field box set workbench Bear mind run engine close two hours got everything situated proceeded refill one-gallon can 10%-nitro fuel started screw metal cap off something ignited fumes can left hand upside down get better grip cap fill supply lines dis connected fittings flame intense within second severe second degree burns over 50% back hand thumb know fact flames protruded underneath cap fit tings since palm burned talking other members BARKS finally agreed upon prob able source ignition must have static discharge due combination metal can carpet floor front workbench An additional contributing factor might have high level static air nearby thunderstorm previously mentioned After returning receiving treatment hospital checked metal can dis covered still small amount fuel left reason mention because flame extinguished about fast ignited over done before knew what happened would recommend use metal cans very aware type static discharge know spark Burns painful injuries take longest heal am total loss offer pat answer either what caused ignition fuel vapor remaining fuel can didnt explode readers wish comment questions Id happy receive theories Inadvertent engine starts Staying sub ject fuelbut canId like say about glow plug engines started battery hooked up plug Safety Comes First column appeared July 1986 issue quoted number letters modelers experienced starting glow plug engines prop flipped battery being con nected plug received several letters readers column offered ra tionales such occurrences Three letters Tony LaVardera Amos Ponder Rupert Kosmala offered explanation based physical phenomenon pre viously aware record Im reprint ing Tonys letter its entirety Two three months ago wrote about engines starting battery connected glow plug thought sure would get letters fuel glow plug manufac turers giving logical explanation can happen Now see July maga zinc letters about engines starting battery cable connected glow plug Continued page 16 14 Model Aviation K Plane Simple Bentom free-flight rubber-powered sport planes easy build fun fly Crafted rugged injection molded polystyrene foam model ready assemble dont need tools build Bentom sport plane everything need included Sport Series kit features Bentoms exclusive BiMatic gearbox pre-assembled 21 gear drive provides additional prop thrust extended flight time Bentam kit includes 2 Props 2 Sets Rubber Balance Weights Contact Adhesive Lightweight Decal Set Bentoms affordable airplane model kits easy build fun fly Its simple information about Bentom models contact California Model Imports P0 Box 1695 Dept Garden Grove CA 92642 714 991-1720 CALIDRNIA MODEL IMPORTS EXTRA 230 Featured May 86 ModelAviation Niw AvaIlable doff Scull Span9gm Length 72 Area 1300 sq pins Leading28ozpersq ft Weight171bs PowerQ-35 CIII- KIEV SUER kifli Sink lb CID USA Writs tar mum Inhmnumumn Full Kit $19995 Partial 712-943-4102 RIC EXTRAS RRNo 1Box 283 Sergeant Bluff IA 51054 no explanation start guess manufacturers just lazy am comes writing letters am expert explanation engines can start battery power put platinum wire alcohol fumes presence air chemical reac tion takes place platinum wire will get hot actually glow red alcohol fumes will start burn engines glow plug wire platinum platinum-coated fuel mostly alcohol engine stopped exhaust port open still fuel engine case have ideal condition reaction take place Alcohol burns colorless flame difficult see bright daylight muf fler engine will never know alcohol burning An engine condition needs flip propeller make start chemical reaction takes place tween platinum alcohol rea sons glow plugs stay hot engines battery connected remember friend grandfather lighting cigar alcohol lighter seven eight years old time am now 58 lighter small cylinder little wick coming out top similar lantern wick would remove metal pick bottom cylinder pick small wire loop end would hold wire over wick after wire would get red hot almost-invisible flames would come wick age seven thought magic hope explanation helps Yes Tony certainly does help Especially since similar explanation came two other readers previously aware chemical reaction occurs platinum brought contact alcohol fumes presence air suggestion readers alert fact glow plug engine may start time flip prop fuel itdespite absence battery con nected plug Another letter subject Jim Smith Clementon NJ related number experi ences glow plug engines started out batteries connected plug However found important message Jims letter regard diesel engines few words diesels Since CL Racing events NJ area based economy opposed pure speed eg FAI Team Race us use dieselsmostly 15s Weve run everything Supertigres Rossis ETAs Dutch USG now have Scale Racer main rule diesels consider diesel would loaded gun can will start time prop flipped will start lubricating oil residual fuel ether fumes just out pure nastiness Also always use finger pro jection since diesel will bite about twice hard glow engine Never over-prime head diesel hydraulic lock acci dent waiting happen must prime head close exhaust port just wet piston hope comments have helpful enough use column might hope some fingers hands other vital parts can saved injury readers ing made aware characteristics enginesContinued page 128 16Model Aviation NEWEST AIRILINE full size Aerelsatic World THE LEADER IN COMPETITION PROPELLERS NEW 4 CYCLE SERIES 100 THP DESIGN TAILORED HELICAL PITCH DEVELOPEDTOGIVE MAXIMUM THRUST AT 4 CYCLE ENGINE RPM ALLTHELATEST TECHNIQUES USED ON OUR PRO SERIES 3 SEE BELOW DIA PITCH THP PRICE 12 66A778 299 136778379 146778479 1567689 16678989 NEW PRO SERIES 3 NEW HIGH TECH AIRFOIL SECTION 10T020%INCREASE IN THRUST MFG OF SELECT HARD MAPLE WOOD WILL NOT FATIGUE LIKE SYNTHETICS FUEL PROOF HIGH LUSTER FINISH DIAPITCHPRICE 53/i34149 634149 72833A456179 83344568189 8/4566A7199 94566A77199 104566A7209 106W8W209 106EW219 114677778229 115W229 116EW239 11I67239 124W279 125W279 1256279 1356349 1456459 1556659 164AN969 16678969 RO PYLON RACING SERIES 500 DIAPITCHPRICE 7SN 5N279 8I67/7I8299 SERIES 400C 8/66777289 9777289 W WIDE BLADE EW EXTRA WIDE N NARROW cssI coazr tNDED Safety/Preston Continued page 16 Balsa knives Up point months column has offered advice us build internal-combustion engine-powered models As postscript comes safety message Scale Staffel newsletter should interest modelers came way Bill Winter author Just Fun column magazine Some five years ago reported incident also relayed via Bill concerned modeler bled death after cut himself leg balsa knife knives can hazardous Consider following tip Scale Staffel newsletter editor dont know name JP hobby knife quietly roll off work bench drop lap bury entire length blade right inner thigh bad news wound got infected very painful good news did land mere two inches left 25 cents could purchase cheapest surance life sketch accompanied Scale Staffel newsletter safety tip showed soft vinyl triangular-shaped sleeve handle knife Apparently can obtained sta tionary stores about 25 50 cents tended slipped onto pencils prevent rolling off tables desks etc claimed such sleeve does interfere use knife may actually help grip handle Have safe month John Preston Model Aviation 1810 Samuel Morse Drive Reston Virginia 22090 Plane Talk/Winter Continued page 26 fly rudder-only RC jobs know can lose downwind out sightunable penetrate after downwind turns down wind portion circle sideways drift lightweight ship revealed wind blowing against top plane Such changes display wind airspeed changing relative other points circle since wind relative wing changing angle attack kinetic energy involved know upon turning wind plane can slow abruptly some reason go climb Dealers Distributors Welcomed Phone 703 273-9593 FLYLINE MODELS INC P 0 Box 2136 Fan-tax Vrgnia 32031 U 5 stall As varying airspeed 360 model find certaln three-channel RC models slow respond rudder downwind sideso much some like Rebel can barely brought back wind rudder action powerful Airspeed over rudder going downwind less no argument therefore less over entire plane including wing plane must accelerate downwind leg malntaln its original speed relative wind So its obvious eye wind time sorta blowing model along say Get out way two Gordon Light Rubber Commer cialsa sport version Wakefield winner flew beautifully gentle wind strong wind always spiraled ground downwind segment circle added dihedral problem vanished no way Rebel GL model could blissfully drifting air ocean Suppose wind As Gordon Light model banks front you see its top dihedral has the top wing see less see lower wing ridiculously large dihedral would see wind large expanse upper wing little nothing lower wing other extremethat no dihedral assuming model banked verticallyyoud see equal area both upper lowerbanked wing know model condition could roll out its own drifting downwind speed match force wind definitely impervious influence wind since blithely floating air ocean aerodynamic soul leave ponder resulting relative wind airfoil both wingsand conse quently whatever angle attack exists model pursues its circular path constantlychanging relative wind increments years experience Don Srull have learned question nothing says scientist par excellence experienced aero nautical engineer constantly-winning modeler varied events Anything I better innocent comments man thinks like model believe pro asr ocean says what see what top cites Hewitt Phillips NASA did definitive analysis would bible subject Hewitt genius knew Indoor days early Thirties cannot argue Phillips says Don proved what see can take place backside gust think what see lightweight turning out wind precisely Hewitts gust condition effect model has created its 128 Model Aviation ao 10SASIFLIIIIG 13S.AAJ AZRCA L16BdhJa LIA5cN uaWpan 8 Luah. poem 6O 90 cun wiagapan 8 1uca power 2 ou L2R FOoT PLAN S1SZOOOZL TGLASS CL3SZOoOlL add 10% hiv A0 PLLZIS N PANTS PO 3 939 ZAH 11 11760 1 716 727O Classic U/C Scale iII sGRATL~ 40 Wing 15 25 Engines 5 0 IL
Edition: Model Aviation - 1986/10
Page Numbers: 12, 14, 16, 128
___John Preston___________________________ Safety Comes First Fuel cans bat teries potential fire explosion hazard spontaneous starting glow diesel engines Hey Balsa-cutting knives can cut people too BOOM Since writing last Safety column received three letters concerning fuel can explo sions ignitions Two letters described actual incidents third contained warning concerning such incidents Strangely enough two letters arrived mailbox simultaneously First explosion read Model Builder magazine may have read ac count fuel can explosion Al Almans Big Birds column Al sent copy draft column together letter suggesting include part Safety column sure everybody gets word about potential fire/explosion hazard may exist fuel cans placed close electrical power source such battery flight box Als entire column follows serious accident occur field . accidents could have avoided Heres what happened club members recently installed 12-volt gel cell battery flight box connected two battery terminals bare alligator clips installed front box Two weeks ago getting ready leave field placed flight box bare clips facing him rear sta tion wagondirectly behind partially-full can glow fuel reached some thing behind flight box pushing can fuel against live alligator clips explosion andinstantly both car showered burn ing fuel immediate reaction quick thinking three flying buddies would have become fatality fire extinguishers hand themtwo spray-can types 2/ pound er five pounderwere used up mainly because alcohol fires insidious Its almost impossible tell flame three vital lessons learned near tragedy Never connect battery bare leads clips 2 Always have fire extinguishers available field wherever else use fuel 3 Never fly alone Remember companion doesnt necessarily have pilot Hes safety backup hapless club member alone wouldnt have chance As turned Out three quick-witted buddies saved life also minimized injuries Because although does face some skin grafting hes already up around feeling much better As mentioned accident could have avoided very real hazard bare live clips pointed out earlier another club member . yet another case someone didnt want take time get job done right paid heckuva price draggin butt comment Als description incident comes form suggestion readers suggest immediately check flight boxes make determina tion whether such incident could happen other letter arrived mail simul taneously Als Chuck Dunham lives Tumwater WA Chuck drew attention article Model Aviation July 1986 issue page 86 described construct Flight Assistant field box mounted wheels illustrated support paraphernalia us regularly haul flying field Photo graphs article showed electric fuel pump mounted directly top metal fuel can Chucks letter began asking anyone Model Aviation checks construc tion articles regarding unsafe construction techniques believe answer question would have yes because have number calls editors concerning other articles safety questionable Mounting electric fuel pump top metal fuel can common practice no ticed number similar arrangements Scale contest attended just week ago As Chuck pointed out letter possibility arcing pump motor could ignite fumes fuel can Also electrical wiring pump contact metal can always possibility insulation could become damaged general wear tear could crack old age Again suggest check own field box determine safety fueling system third letter received subject fuel cans came Rich Torgerson described mysterious fire Rich flying first day two-day air show being put Boise Area Radio Kontrol Society BARKS After Rich performed two suc Continued page 14 4It 1 PEj4APS WE COULD LXI AT TI4IS AS CI4EMICAL EACTION ThAT OCCURS WI4EN tnT AND WOOD COME INTO CONtACT WITHOUT Th 1ESENCE OF Al 12 Model Aviation cessful flight routines discovered forgotten refill metal fuel container before coming air show Although didnt fly again day Rich stayed show until about hour after last flight thunderstorm approached stiffening breeze caused cancellation remainder events Ill use Richs own words describe what happened arrived home unloaded plane field box set workbench Bear mind run engine close two hours got everything situated proceeded refill one-gallon can 10%-nitro fuel started screw metal cap off something ignited fumes can left hand upside down get better grip cap fill supply lines dis connected fittings flame intense within second severe second degree burns over 50% back hand thumb know fact flames protruded underneath cap fit tings since palm burned talking other members BARKS finally agreed upon prob able source ignition must have static discharge due combination metal can carpet floor front workbench An additional contributing factor might have high level static air nearby thunderstorm previously mentioned After returning receiving treatment hospital checked metal can dis covered still small amount fuel left reason mention because flame extinguished about fast ignited over done before knew what happened would recommend use metal cans very aware type static discharge know spark Burns painful injuries take longest heal am total loss offer pat answer either what caused ignition fuel vapor remaining fuel can didnt explode readers wish comment questions Id happy receive theories Inadvertent engine starts Staying sub ject fuelbut canId like say about glow plug engines started battery hooked up plug Safety Comes First column appeared July 1986 issue quoted number letters modelers experienced starting glow plug engines prop flipped battery being con nected plug received several letters readers column offered ra tionales such occurrences Three letters Tony LaVardera Amos Ponder Rupert Kosmala offered explanation based physical phenomenon pre viously aware record Im reprint ing Tonys letter its entirety Two three months ago wrote about engines starting battery connected glow plug thought sure would get letters fuel glow plug manufac turers giving logical explanation can happen Now see July maga zinc letters about engines starting battery cable connected glow plug Continued page 16 14 Model Aviation K Plane Simple Bentom free-flight rubber-powered sport planes easy build fun fly Crafted rugged injection molded polystyrene foam model ready assemble dont need tools build Bentom sport plane everything need included Sport Series kit features Bentoms exclusive BiMatic gearbox pre-assembled 21 gear drive provides additional prop thrust extended flight time Bentam kit includes 2 Props 2 Sets Rubber Balance Weights Contact Adhesive Lightweight Decal Set Bentoms affordable airplane model kits easy build fun fly Its simple information about Bentom models contact California Model Imports P0 Box 1695 Dept Garden Grove CA 92642 714 991-1720 CALIDRNIA MODEL IMPORTS EXTRA 230 Featured May 86 ModelAviation Niw AvaIlable doff Scull Span9gm Length 72 Area 1300 sq pins Leading28ozpersq ft Weight171bs PowerQ-35 CIII- KIEV SUER kifli Sink lb CID USA Writs tar mum Inhmnumumn Full Kit $19995 Partial 712-943-4102 RIC EXTRAS RRNo 1Box 283 Sergeant Bluff IA 51054 no explanation start guess manufacturers just lazy am comes writing letters am expert explanation engines can start battery power put platinum wire alcohol fumes presence air chemical reac tion takes place platinum wire will get hot actually glow red alcohol fumes will start burn engines glow plug wire platinum platinum-coated fuel mostly alcohol engine stopped exhaust port open still fuel engine case have ideal condition reaction take place Alcohol burns colorless flame difficult see bright daylight muf fler engine will never know alcohol burning An engine condition needs flip propeller make start chemical reaction takes place tween platinum alcohol rea sons glow plugs stay hot engines battery connected remember friend grandfather lighting cigar alcohol lighter seven eight years old time am now 58 lighter small cylinder little wick coming out top similar lantern wick would remove metal pick bottom cylinder pick small wire loop end would hold wire over wick after wire would get red hot almost-invisible flames would come wick age seven thought magic hope explanation helps Yes Tony certainly does help Especially since similar explanation came two other readers previously aware chemical reaction occurs platinum brought contact alcohol fumes presence air suggestion readers alert fact glow plug engine may start time flip prop fuel itdespite absence battery con nected plug Another letter subject Jim Smith Clementon NJ related number experi ences glow plug engines started out batteries connected plug However found important message Jims letter regard diesel engines few words diesels Since CL Racing events NJ area based economy opposed pure speed eg FAI Team Race us use dieselsmostly 15s Weve run everything Supertigres Rossis ETAs Dutch USG now have Scale Racer main rule diesels consider diesel would loaded gun can will start time prop flipped will start lubricating oil residual fuel ether fumes just out pure nastiness Also always use finger pro jection since diesel will bite about twice hard glow engine Never over-prime head diesel hydraulic lock acci dent waiting happen must prime head close exhaust port just wet piston hope comments have helpful enough use column might hope some fingers hands other vital parts can saved injury readers ing made aware characteristics enginesContinued page 128 16Model Aviation NEWEST AIRILINE full size Aerelsatic World THE LEADER IN COMPETITION PROPELLERS NEW 4 CYCLE SERIES 100 THP DESIGN TAILORED HELICAL PITCH DEVELOPEDTOGIVE MAXIMUM THRUST AT 4 CYCLE ENGINE RPM ALLTHELATEST TECHNIQUES USED ON OUR PRO SERIES 3 SEE BELOW DIA PITCH THP PRICE 12 66A778 299 136778379 146778479 1567689 16678989 NEW PRO SERIES 3 NEW HIGH TECH AIRFOIL SECTION 10T020%INCREASE IN THRUST MFG OF SELECT HARD MAPLE WOOD WILL NOT FATIGUE LIKE SYNTHETICS FUEL PROOF HIGH LUSTER FINISH DIAPITCHPRICE 53/i34149 634149 72833A456179 83344568189 8/4566A7199 94566A77199 104566A7209 106W8W209 106EW219 114677778229 115W229 116EW239 11I67239 124W279 125W279 1256279 1356349 1456459 1556659 164AN969 16678969 RO PYLON RACING SERIES 500 DIAPITCHPRICE 7SN 5N279 8I67/7I8299 SERIES 400C 8/66777289 9777289 W WIDE BLADE EW EXTRA WIDE N NARROW cssI coazr tNDED Safety/Preston Continued page 16 Balsa knives Up point months column has offered advice us build internal-combustion engine-powered models As postscript comes safety message Scale Staffel newsletter should interest modelers came way Bill Winter author Just Fun column magazine Some five years ago reported incident also relayed via Bill concerned modeler bled death after cut himself leg balsa knife knives can hazardous Consider following tip Scale Staffel newsletter editor dont know name JP hobby knife quietly roll off work bench drop lap bury entire length blade right inner thigh bad news wound got infected very painful good news did land mere two inches left 25 cents could purchase cheapest surance life sketch accompanied Scale Staffel newsletter safety tip showed soft vinyl triangular-shaped sleeve handle knife Apparently can obtained sta tionary stores about 25 50 cents tended slipped onto pencils prevent rolling off tables desks etc claimed such sleeve does interfere use knife may actually help grip handle Have safe month John Preston Model Aviation 1810 Samuel Morse Drive Reston Virginia 22090 Plane Talk/Winter Continued page 26 fly rudder-only RC jobs know can lose downwind out sightunable penetrate after downwind turns down wind portion circle sideways drift lightweight ship revealed wind blowing against top plane Such changes display wind airspeed changing relative other points circle since wind relative wing changing angle attack kinetic energy involved know upon turning wind plane can slow abruptly some reason go climb Dealers Distributors Welcomed Phone 703 273-9593 FLYLINE MODELS INC P 0 Box 2136 Fan-tax Vrgnia 32031 U 5 stall As varying airspeed 360 model find certaln three-channel RC models slow respond rudder downwind sideso much some like Rebel can barely brought back wind rudder action powerful Airspeed over rudder going downwind less no argument therefore less over entire plane including wing plane must accelerate downwind leg malntaln its original speed relative wind So its obvious eye wind time sorta blowing model along say Get out way two Gordon Light Rubber Commer cialsa sport version Wakefield winner flew beautifully gentle wind strong wind always spiraled ground downwind segment circle added dihedral problem vanished no way Rebel GL model could blissfully drifting air ocean Suppose wind As Gordon Light model banks front you see its top dihedral has the top wing see less see lower wing ridiculously large dihedral would see wind large expanse upper wing little nothing lower wing other extremethat no dihedral assuming model banked verticallyyoud see equal area both upper lowerbanked wing know model condition could roll out its own drifting downwind speed match force wind definitely impervious influence wind since blithely floating air ocean aerodynamic soul leave ponder resulting relative wind airfoil both wingsand conse quently whatever angle attack exists model pursues its circular path constantlychanging relative wind increments years experience Don Srull have learned question nothing says scientist par excellence experienced aero nautical engineer constantly-winning modeler varied events Anything I better innocent comments man thinks like model believe pro asr ocean says what see what top cites Hewitt Phillips NASA did definitive analysis would bible subject Hewitt genius knew Indoor days early Thirties cannot argue Phillips says Don proved what see can take place backside gust think what see lightweight turning out wind precisely Hewitts gust condition effect model has created its 128 Model Aviation ao 10SASIFLIIIIG 13S.AAJ AZRCA L16BdhJa LIA5cN uaWpan 8 Luah. poem 6O 90 cun wiagapan 8 1uca power 2 ou L2R FOoT PLAN S1SZOOOZL TGLASS CL3SZOoOlL add 10% hiv A0 PLLZIS N PANTS PO 3 939 ZAH 11 11760 1 716 727O Classic U/C Scale iII sGRATL~ 40 Wing 15 25 Engines 5 0 IL
Edition: Model Aviation - 1986/10
Page Numbers: 12, 14, 16, 128
___John Preston___________________________ Safety Comes First Fuel cans bat teries potential fire explosion hazard spontaneous starting glow diesel engines Hey Balsa-cutting knives can cut people too BOOM Since writing last Safety column received three letters concerning fuel can explo sions ignitions Two letters described actual incidents third contained warning concerning such incidents Strangely enough two letters arrived mailbox simultaneously First explosion read Model Builder magazine may have read ac count fuel can explosion Al Almans Big Birds column Al sent copy draft column together letter suggesting include part Safety column sure everybody gets word about potential fire/explosion hazard may exist fuel cans placed close electrical power source such battery flight box Als entire column follows serious accident occur field . accidents could have avoided Heres what happened club members recently installed 12-volt gel cell battery flight box connected two battery terminals bare alligator clips installed front box Two weeks ago getting ready leave field placed flight box bare clips facing him rear sta tion wagondirectly behind partially-full can glow fuel reached some thing behind flight box pushing can fuel against live alligator clips explosion andinstantly both car showered burn ing fuel immediate reaction quick thinking three flying buddies would have become fatality fire extinguishers hand themtwo spray-can types 2/ pound er five pounderwere used up mainly because alcohol fires insidious Its almost impossible tell flame three vital lessons learned near tragedy Never connect battery bare leads clips 2 Always have fire extinguishers available field wherever else use fuel 3 Never fly alone Remember companion doesnt necessarily have pilot Hes safety backup hapless club member alone wouldnt have chance As turned Out three quick-witted buddies saved life also minimized injuries Because although does face some skin grafting hes already up around feeling much better As mentioned accident could have avoided very real hazard bare live clips pointed out earlier another club member . yet another case someone didnt want take time get job done right paid heckuva price draggin butt comment Als description incident comes form suggestion readers suggest immediately check flight boxes make determina tion whether such incident could happen other letter arrived mail simul taneously Als Chuck Dunham lives Tumwater WA Chuck drew attention article Model Aviation July 1986 issue page 86 described construct Flight Assistant field box mounted wheels illustrated support paraphernalia us regularly haul flying field Photo graphs article showed electric fuel pump mounted directly top metal fuel can Chucks letter began asking anyone Model Aviation checks construc tion articles regarding unsafe construction techniques believe answer question would have yes because have number calls editors concerning other articles safety questionable Mounting electric fuel pump top metal fuel can common practice no ticed number similar arrangements Scale contest attended just week ago As Chuck pointed out letter possibility arcing pump motor could ignite fumes fuel can Also electrical wiring pump contact metal can always possibility insulation could become damaged general wear tear could crack old age Again suggest check own field box determine safety fueling system third letter received subject fuel cans came Rich Torgerson described mysterious fire Rich flying first day two-day air show being put Boise Area Radio Kontrol Society BARKS After Rich performed two suc Continued page 14 4It 1 PEj4APS WE COULD LXI AT TI4IS AS CI4EMICAL EACTION ThAT OCCURS WI4EN tnT AND WOOD COME INTO CONtACT WITHOUT Th 1ESENCE OF Al 12 Model Aviation cessful flight routines discovered forgotten refill metal fuel container before coming air show Although didnt fly again day Rich stayed show until about hour after last flight thunderstorm approached stiffening breeze caused cancellation remainder events Ill use Richs own words describe what happened arrived home unloaded plane field box set workbench Bear mind run engine close two hours got everything situated proceeded refill one-gallon can 10%-nitro fuel started screw metal cap off something ignited fumes can left hand upside down get better grip cap fill supply lines dis connected fittings flame intense within second severe second degree burns over 50% back hand thumb know fact flames protruded underneath cap fit tings since palm burned talking other members BARKS finally agreed upon prob able source ignition must have static discharge due combination metal can carpet floor front workbench An additional contributing factor might have high level static air nearby thunderstorm previously mentioned After returning receiving treatment hospital checked metal can dis covered still small amount fuel left reason mention because flame extinguished about fast ignited over done before knew what happened would recommend use metal cans very aware type static discharge know spark Burns painful injuries take longest heal am total loss offer pat answer either what caused ignition fuel vapor remaining fuel can didnt explode readers wish comment questions Id happy receive theories Inadvertent engine starts Staying sub ject fuelbut canId like say about glow plug engines started battery hooked up plug Safety Comes First column appeared July 1986 issue quoted number letters modelers experienced starting glow plug engines prop flipped battery being con nected plug received several letters readers column offered ra tionales such occurrences Three letters Tony LaVardera Amos Ponder Rupert Kosmala offered explanation based physical phenomenon pre viously aware record Im reprint ing Tonys letter its entirety Two three months ago wrote about engines starting battery connected glow plug thought sure would get letters fuel glow plug manufac turers giving logical explanation can happen Now see July maga zinc letters about engines starting battery cable connected glow plug Continued page 16 14 Model Aviation K Plane Simple Bentom free-flight rubber-powered sport planes easy build fun fly Crafted rugged injection molded polystyrene foam model ready assemble dont need tools build Bentom sport plane everything need included Sport Series kit features Bentoms exclusive BiMatic gearbox pre-assembled 21 gear drive provides additional prop thrust extended flight time Bentam kit includes 2 Props 2 Sets Rubber Balance Weights Contact Adhesive Lightweight Decal Set Bentoms affordable airplane model kits easy build fun fly Its simple information about Bentom models contact California Model Imports P0 Box 1695 Dept Garden Grove CA 92642 714 991-1720 CALIDRNIA MODEL IMPORTS EXTRA 230 Featured May 86 ModelAviation Niw AvaIlable doff Scull Span9gm Length 72 Area 1300 sq pins Leading28ozpersq ft Weight171bs PowerQ-35 CIII- KIEV SUER kifli Sink lb CID USA Writs tar mum Inhmnumumn Full Kit $19995 Partial 712-943-4102 RIC EXTRAS RRNo 1Box 283 Sergeant Bluff IA 51054 no explanation start guess manufacturers just lazy am comes writing letters am expert explanation engines can start battery power put platinum wire alcohol fumes presence air chemical reac tion takes place platinum wire will get hot actually glow red alcohol fumes will start burn engines glow plug wire platinum platinum-coated fuel mostly alcohol engine stopped exhaust port open still fuel engine case have ideal condition reaction take place Alcohol burns colorless flame difficult see bright daylight muf fler engine will never know alcohol burning An engine condition needs flip propeller make start chemical reaction takes place tween platinum alcohol rea sons glow plugs stay hot engines battery connected remember friend grandfather lighting cigar alcohol lighter seven eight years old time am now 58 lighter small cylinder little wick coming out top similar lantern wick would remove metal pick bottom cylinder pick small wire loop end would hold wire over wick after wire would get red hot almost-invisible flames would come wick age seven thought magic hope explanation helps Yes Tony certainly does help Especially since similar explanation came two other readers previously aware chemical reaction occurs platinum brought contact alcohol fumes presence air suggestion readers alert fact glow plug engine may start time flip prop fuel itdespite absence battery con nected plug Another letter subject Jim Smith Clementon NJ related number experi ences glow plug engines started out batteries connected plug However found important message Jims letter regard diesel engines few words diesels Since CL Racing events NJ area based economy opposed pure speed eg FAI Team Race us use dieselsmostly 15s Weve run everything Supertigres Rossis ETAs Dutch USG now have Scale Racer main rule diesels consider diesel would loaded gun can will start time prop flipped will start lubricating oil residual fuel ether fumes just out pure nastiness Also always use finger pro jection since diesel will bite about twice hard glow engine Never over-prime head diesel hydraulic lock acci dent waiting happen must prime head close exhaust port just wet piston hope comments have helpful enough use column might hope some fingers hands other vital parts can saved injury readers ing made aware characteristics enginesContinued page 128 16Model Aviation NEWEST AIRILINE full size Aerelsatic World THE LEADER IN COMPETITION PROPELLERS NEW 4 CYCLE SERIES 100 THP DESIGN TAILORED HELICAL PITCH DEVELOPEDTOGIVE MAXIMUM THRUST AT 4 CYCLE ENGINE RPM ALLTHELATEST TECHNIQUES USED ON OUR PRO SERIES 3 SEE BELOW DIA PITCH THP PRICE 12 66A778 299 136778379 146778479 1567689 16678989 NEW PRO SERIES 3 NEW HIGH TECH AIRFOIL SECTION 10T020%INCREASE IN THRUST MFG OF SELECT HARD MAPLE WOOD WILL NOT FATIGUE LIKE SYNTHETICS FUEL PROOF HIGH LUSTER FINISH DIAPITCHPRICE 53/i34149 634149 72833A456179 83344568189 8/4566A7199 94566A77199 104566A7209 106W8W209 106EW219 114677778229 115W229 116EW239 11I67239 124W279 125W279 1256279 1356349 1456459 1556659 164AN969 16678969 RO PYLON RACING SERIES 500 DIAPITCHPRICE 7SN 5N279 8I67/7I8299 SERIES 400C 8/66777289 9777289 W WIDE BLADE EW EXTRA WIDE N NARROW cssI coazr tNDED Safety/Preston Continued page 16 Balsa knives Up point months column has offered advice us build internal-combustion engine-powered models As postscript comes safety message Scale Staffel newsletter should interest modelers came way Bill Winter author Just Fun column magazine Some five years ago reported incident also relayed via Bill concerned modeler bled death after cut himself leg balsa knife knives can hazardous Consider following tip Scale Staffel newsletter editor dont know name JP hobby knife quietly roll off work bench drop lap bury entire length blade right inner thigh bad news wound got infected very painful good news did land mere two inches left 25 cents could purchase cheapest surance life sketch accompanied Scale Staffel newsletter safety tip showed soft vinyl triangular-shaped sleeve handle knife Apparently can obtained sta tionary stores about 25 50 cents tended slipped onto pencils prevent rolling off tables desks etc claimed such sleeve does interfere use knife may actually help grip handle Have safe month John Preston Model Aviation 1810 Samuel Morse Drive Reston Virginia 22090 Plane Talk/Winter Continued page 26 fly rudder-only RC jobs know can lose downwind out sightunable penetrate after downwind turns down wind portion circle sideways drift lightweight ship revealed wind blowing against top plane Such changes display wind airspeed changing relative other points circle since wind relative wing changing angle attack kinetic energy involved know upon turning wind plane can slow abruptly some reason go climb Dealers Distributors Welcomed Phone 703 273-9593 FLYLINE MODELS INC P 0 Box 2136 Fan-tax Vrgnia 32031 U 5 stall As varying airspeed 360 model find certaln three-channel RC models slow respond rudder downwind sideso much some like Rebel can barely brought back wind rudder action powerful Airspeed over rudder going downwind less no argument therefore less over entire plane including wing plane must accelerate downwind leg malntaln its original speed relative wind So its obvious eye wind time sorta blowing model along say Get out way two Gordon Light Rubber Commer cialsa sport version Wakefield winner flew beautifully gentle wind strong wind always spiraled ground downwind segment circle added dihedral problem vanished no way Rebel GL model could blissfully drifting air ocean Suppose wind As Gordon Light model banks front you see its top dihedral has the top wing see less see lower wing ridiculously large dihedral would see wind large expanse upper wing little nothing lower wing other extremethat no dihedral assuming model banked verticallyyoud see equal area both upper lowerbanked wing know model condition could roll out its own drifting downwind speed match force wind definitely impervious influence wind since blithely floating air ocean aerodynamic soul leave ponder resulting relative wind airfoil both wingsand conse quently whatever angle attack exists model pursues its circular path constantlychanging relative wind increments years experience Don Srull have learned question nothing says scientist par excellence experienced aero nautical engineer constantly-winning modeler varied events Anything I better innocent comments man thinks like model believe pro asr ocean says what see what top cites Hewitt Phillips NASA did definitive analysis would bible subject Hewitt genius knew Indoor days early Thirties cannot argue Phillips says Don proved what see can take place backside gust think what see lightweight turning out wind precisely Hewitts gust condition effect model has created its 128 Model Aviation ao 10SASIFLIIIIG 13S.AAJ AZRCA L16BdhJa LIA5cN uaWpan 8 Luah. poem 6O 90 cun wiagapan 8 1uca power 2 ou L2R FOoT PLAN S1SZOOOZL TGLASS CL3SZOoOlL add 10% hiv A0 PLLZIS N PANTS PO 3 939 ZAH 11 11760 1 716 727O Classic U/C Scale iII sGRATL~ 40 Wing 15 25 Engines 5 0 IL
Edition: Model Aviation - 1986/10
Page Numbers: 12, 14, 16, 128
___John Preston___________________________ Safety Comes First Fuel cans bat teries potential fire explosion hazard spontaneous starting glow diesel engines Hey Balsa-cutting knives can cut people too BOOM Since writing last Safety column received three letters concerning fuel can explo sions ignitions Two letters described actual incidents third contained warning concerning such incidents Strangely enough two letters arrived mailbox simultaneously First explosion read Model Builder magazine may have read ac count fuel can explosion Al Almans Big Birds column Al sent copy draft column together letter suggesting include part Safety column sure everybody gets word about potential fire/explosion hazard may exist fuel cans placed close electrical power source such battery flight box Als entire column follows serious accident occur field . accidents could have avoided Heres what happened club members recently installed 12-volt gel cell battery flight box connected two battery terminals bare alligator clips installed front box Two weeks ago getting ready leave field placed flight box bare clips facing him rear sta tion wagondirectly behind partially-full can glow fuel reached some thing behind flight box pushing can fuel against live alligator clips explosion andinstantly both car showered burn ing fuel immediate reaction quick thinking three flying buddies would have become fatality fire extinguishers hand themtwo spray-can types 2/ pound er five pounderwere used up mainly because alcohol fires insidious Its almost impossible tell flame three vital lessons learned near tragedy Never connect battery bare leads clips 2 Always have fire extinguishers available field wherever else use fuel 3 Never fly alone Remember companion doesnt necessarily have pilot Hes safety backup hapless club member alone wouldnt have chance As turned Out three quick-witted buddies saved life also minimized injuries Because although does face some skin grafting hes already up around feeling much better As mentioned accident could have avoided very real hazard bare live clips pointed out earlier another club member . yet another case someone didnt want take time get job done right paid heckuva price draggin butt comment Als description incident comes form suggestion readers suggest immediately check flight boxes make determina tion whether such incident could happen other letter arrived mail simul taneously Als Chuck Dunham lives Tumwater WA Chuck drew attention article Model Aviation July 1986 issue page 86 described construct Flight Assistant field box mounted wheels illustrated support paraphernalia us regularly haul flying field Photo graphs article showed electric fuel pump mounted directly top metal fuel can Chucks letter began asking anyone Model Aviation checks construc tion articles regarding unsafe construction techniques believe answer question would have yes because have number calls editors concerning other articles safety questionable Mounting electric fuel pump top metal fuel can common practice no ticed number similar arrangements Scale contest attended just week ago As Chuck pointed out letter possibility arcing pump motor could ignite fumes fuel can Also electrical wiring pump contact metal can always possibility insulation could become damaged general wear tear could crack old age Again suggest check own field box determine safety fueling system third letter received subject fuel cans came Rich Torgerson described mysterious fire Rich flying first day two-day air show being put Boise Area Radio Kontrol Society BARKS After Rich performed two suc Continued page 14 4It 1 PEj4APS WE COULD LXI AT TI4IS AS CI4EMICAL EACTION ThAT OCCURS WI4EN tnT AND WOOD COME INTO CONtACT WITHOUT Th 1ESENCE OF Al 12 Model Aviation cessful flight routines discovered forgotten refill metal fuel container before coming air show Although didnt fly again day Rich stayed show until about hour after last flight thunderstorm approached stiffening breeze caused cancellation remainder events Ill use Richs own words describe what happened arrived home unloaded plane field box set workbench Bear mind run engine close two hours got everything situated proceeded refill one-gallon can 10%-nitro fuel started screw metal cap off something ignited fumes can left hand upside down get better grip cap fill supply lines dis connected fittings flame intense within second severe second degree burns over 50% back hand thumb know fact flames protruded underneath cap fit tings since palm burned talking other members BARKS finally agreed upon prob able source ignition must have static discharge due combination metal can carpet floor front workbench An additional contributing factor might have high level static air nearby thunderstorm previously mentioned After returning receiving treatment hospital checked metal can dis covered still small amount fuel left reason mention because flame extinguished about fast ignited over done before knew what happened would recommend use metal cans very aware type static discharge know spark Burns painful injuries take longest heal am total loss offer pat answer either what caused ignition fuel vapor remaining fuel can didnt explode readers wish comment questions Id happy receive theories Inadvertent engine starts Staying sub ject fuelbut canId like say about glow plug engines started battery hooked up plug Safety Comes First column appeared July 1986 issue quoted number letters modelers experienced starting glow plug engines prop flipped battery being con nected plug received several letters readers column offered ra tionales such occurrences Three letters Tony LaVardera Amos Ponder Rupert Kosmala offered explanation based physical phenomenon pre viously aware record Im reprint ing Tonys letter its entirety Two three months ago wrote about engines starting battery connected glow plug thought sure would get letters fuel glow plug manufac turers giving logical explanation can happen Now see July maga zinc letters about engines starting battery cable connected glow plug Continued page 16 14 Model Aviation K Plane Simple Bentom free-flight rubber-powered sport planes easy build fun fly Crafted rugged injection molded polystyrene foam model ready assemble dont need tools build Bentom sport plane everything need included Sport Series kit features Bentoms exclusive BiMatic gearbox pre-assembled 21 gear drive provides additional prop thrust extended flight time Bentam kit includes 2 Props 2 Sets Rubber Balance Weights Contact Adhesive Lightweight Decal Set Bentoms affordable airplane model kits easy build fun fly Its simple information about Bentom models contact California Model Imports P0 Box 1695 Dept Garden Grove CA 92642 714 991-1720 CALIDRNIA MODEL IMPORTS EXTRA 230 Featured May 86 ModelAviation Niw AvaIlable doff Scull Span9gm Length 72 Area 1300 sq pins Leading28ozpersq ft Weight171bs PowerQ-35 CIII- KIEV SUER kifli Sink lb CID USA Writs tar mum Inhmnumumn Full Kit $19995 Partial 712-943-4102 RIC EXTRAS RRNo 1Box 283 Sergeant Bluff IA 51054 no explanation start guess manufacturers just lazy am comes writing letters am expert explanation engines can start battery power put platinum wire alcohol fumes presence air chemical reac tion takes place platinum wire will get hot actually glow red alcohol fumes will start burn engines glow plug wire platinum platinum-coated fuel mostly alcohol engine stopped exhaust port open still fuel engine case have ideal condition reaction take place Alcohol burns colorless flame difficult see bright daylight muf fler engine will never know alcohol burning An engine condition needs flip propeller make start chemical reaction takes place tween platinum alcohol rea sons glow plugs stay hot engines battery connected remember friend grandfather lighting cigar alcohol lighter seven eight years old time am now 58 lighter small cylinder little wick coming out top similar lantern wick would remove metal pick bottom cylinder pick small wire loop end would hold wire over wick after wire would get red hot almost-invisible flames would come wick age seven thought magic hope explanation helps Yes Tony certainly does help Especially since similar explanation came two other readers previously aware chemical reaction occurs platinum brought contact alcohol fumes presence air suggestion readers alert fact glow plug engine may start time flip prop fuel itdespite absence battery con nected plug Another letter subject Jim Smith Clementon NJ related number experi ences glow plug engines started out batteries connected plug However found important message Jims letter regard diesel engines few words diesels Since CL Racing events NJ area based economy opposed pure speed eg FAI Team Race us use dieselsmostly 15s Weve run everything Supertigres Rossis ETAs Dutch USG now have Scale Racer main rule diesels consider diesel would loaded gun can will start time prop flipped will start lubricating oil residual fuel ether fumes just out pure nastiness Also always use finger pro jection since diesel will bite about twice hard glow engine Never over-prime head diesel hydraulic lock acci dent waiting happen must prime head close exhaust port just wet piston hope comments have helpful enough use column might hope some fingers hands other vital parts can saved injury readers ing made aware characteristics enginesContinued page 128 16Model Aviation NEWEST AIRILINE full size Aerelsatic World THE LEADER IN COMPETITION PROPELLERS NEW 4 CYCLE SERIES 100 THP DESIGN TAILORED HELICAL PITCH DEVELOPEDTOGIVE MAXIMUM THRUST AT 4 CYCLE ENGINE RPM ALLTHELATEST TECHNIQUES USED ON OUR PRO SERIES 3 SEE BELOW DIA PITCH THP PRICE 12 66A778 299 136778379 146778479 1567689 16678989 NEW PRO SERIES 3 NEW HIGH TECH AIRFOIL SECTION 10T020%INCREASE IN THRUST MFG OF SELECT HARD MAPLE WOOD WILL NOT FATIGUE LIKE SYNTHETICS FUEL PROOF HIGH LUSTER FINISH DIAPITCHPRICE 53/i34149 634149 72833A456179 83344568189 8/4566A7199 94566A77199 104566A7209 106W8W209 106EW219 114677778229 115W229 116EW239 11I67239 124W279 125W279 1256279 1356349 1456459 1556659 164AN969 16678969 RO PYLON RACING SERIES 500 DIAPITCHPRICE 7SN 5N279 8I67/7I8299 SERIES 400C 8/66777289 9777289 W WIDE BLADE EW EXTRA WIDE N NARROW cssI coazr tNDED Safety/Preston Continued page 16 Balsa knives Up point months column has offered advice us build internal-combustion engine-powered models As postscript comes safety message Scale Staffel newsletter should interest modelers came way Bill Winter author Just Fun column magazine Some five years ago reported incident also relayed via Bill concerned modeler bled death after cut himself leg balsa knife knives can hazardous Consider following tip Scale Staffel newsletter editor dont know name JP hobby knife quietly roll off work bench drop lap bury entire length blade right inner thigh bad news wound got infected very painful good news did land mere two inches left 25 cents could purchase cheapest surance life sketch accompanied Scale Staffel newsletter safety tip showed soft vinyl triangular-shaped sleeve handle knife Apparently can obtained sta tionary stores about 25 50 cents tended slipped onto pencils prevent rolling off tables desks etc claimed such sleeve does interfere use knife may actually help grip handle Have safe month John Preston Model Aviation 1810 Samuel Morse Drive Reston Virginia 22090 Plane Talk/Winter Continued page 26 fly rudder-only RC jobs know can lose downwind out sightunable penetrate after downwind turns down wind portion circle sideways drift lightweight ship revealed wind blowing against top plane Such changes display wind airspeed changing relative other points circle since wind relative wing changing angle attack kinetic energy involved know upon turning wind plane can slow abruptly some reason go climb Dealers Distributors Welcomed Phone 703 273-9593 FLYLINE MODELS INC P 0 Box 2136 Fan-tax Vrgnia 32031 U 5 stall As varying airspeed 360 model find certaln three-channel RC models slow respond rudder downwind sideso much some like Rebel can barely brought back wind rudder action powerful Airspeed over rudder going downwind less no argument therefore less over entire plane including wing plane must accelerate downwind leg malntaln its original speed relative wind So its obvious eye wind time sorta blowing model along say Get out way two Gordon Light Rubber Commer cialsa sport version Wakefield winner flew beautifully gentle wind strong wind always spiraled ground downwind segment circle added dihedral problem vanished no way Rebel GL model could blissfully drifting air ocean Suppose wind As Gordon Light model banks front you see its top dihedral has the top wing see less see lower wing ridiculously large dihedral would see wind large expanse upper wing little nothing lower wing other extremethat no dihedral assuming model banked verticallyyoud see equal area both upper lowerbanked wing know model condition could roll out its own drifting downwind speed match force wind definitely impervious influence wind since blithely floating air ocean aerodynamic soul leave ponder resulting relative wind airfoil both wingsand conse quently whatever angle attack exists model pursues its circular path constantlychanging relative wind increments years experience Don Srull have learned question nothing says scientist par excellence experienced aero nautical engineer constantly-winning modeler varied events Anything I better innocent comments man thinks like model believe pro asr ocean says what see what top cites Hewitt Phillips NASA did definitive analysis would bible subject Hewitt genius knew Indoor days early Thirties cannot argue Phillips says Don proved what see can take place backside gust think what see lightweight turning out wind precisely Hewitts gust condition effect model has created its 128 Model Aviation ao 10SASIFLIIIIG 13S.AAJ AZRCA L16BdhJa LIA5cN uaWpan 8 Luah. poem 6O 90 cun wiagapan 8 1uca power 2 ou L2R FOoT PLAN S1SZOOOZL TGLASS CL3SZOoOlL add 10% hiv A0 PLLZIS N PANTS PO 3 939 ZAH 11 11760 1 716 727O Classic U/C Scale iII sGRATL~ 40 Wing 15 25 Engines 5 0 IL