In a message dated 1/18/2005 6:59:43 A.M. Central Standard Time,
domcrain@pacific.net.au writes:
For example, my aircraft stalls in the
approach config. at 64 knots after a MTOW. So near
enough to max weight of 816 Kgs (1800 lbs).
That is a minimum approach of 83
KNOTS.
Pucker factor means I approach at 90 KNOTS,
and bleed to 85 over the
fence.
Dom,
Comparisons between homebuilts are interesting at best. I have
talked to many 320/360 builders where the initial weigh-in differs as to where
fuselage stations are (FS), weight distribution on each of the wheels and
the final calculated arms for pilot, fuel, etc. Sometimes, the empty
weight CG is suspect. This would seem to be relevant at stall.
It would be nice for all of us to use Kts - after all, it is the modern
generally accepted standard for aviation. But, no one reports
Calibrated Air Speed, a more useful number. Some of us have done our best
to find this number at various speeds and if we have the Rocky Mountain
Instrument's (RMI) Micro-encoder, it can be adjusted so that
KIAS is very close to KCAS. Using KTAS and a GPS derived KTAS, a
correction factor can be determined- RMI computes KTAS, accounting for
compressibility's affect (miniscule at low air speeds) on the true air
temperature and using pressure altitude - other computers may not. Modern
GPS units are quite accurate and there are several techniques available for
determining the derived KTAS.
Usually, the largest inaccuracy of a pitot/static air speed system is at a
high angle of attack - like close to stall.
However, I generally fly much like you do on approach, as confirmed by an
AOA indication.
Scott Krueger
AKA Grayhawk
Lancair N92EX IO320 SB 89/96
Aurora, IL (KARR)
Fair
and Balanced Opinions at No Charge!
There is an oxymoron in that,
somewhere...