Art,
Due to leading edge erosion from IFR Operations, I applied the 3M tape developed for Helicopters in the Middle east. I was concerned about the possibility of two things, one increased stall speed and reduced cruise speed. First the tape (expensive but cheaper than paint touchups) stopped the erosion, then there was no noticeable change in stall speed or stall handling qualities. There appears to be about 1-2 knots loss at about 60% power. Rain at over 230 knots is like little nasty hammers and even caused a small fuel leak in the leading edge which required repair and paint. The tape has stopped that problem. It is clear tape but over time it clouds slightly
I installed 3" 14 mill tape in 2004 and have been very happy with the outcome. I purchased the tape from Brown tape in Indianapolis, In 866 276 9682for $285 3" wide in 36 yard length. This tape was cut in two (1.5") for the tail surfaces for proper coverage. The width is excessive for the tail. Prior to this I had tried other tapes which were not satisfactory but much less expensive.
J H Webb
L360, LIV
years of low speed aerodynamics flight testing experience
----- Original Message ----
From: Art Bertolina <artbertolina@earthlink.net>
To: lml@lancaironline.net
Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2008 9:14:47 PM
Subject: [LML] Leading Edge Tape
I have conflicting statement from knowledgeable people
regarding leading edge tape. Will leading edge tape
increase the stall speed of a L IV?.
Art