T-tails are the preffered tail for real sailplanes
because there is only 1 set of intersection drag
problems to deal with. For models that you are going
to dork land, they're a little impractical. Built
normally, the tail boom breaks right at the point
where the fin attaches. The T-tail can be built light
and strong, and full-flying if you prefer. I love
T-tails too, and have built several T-tailed models.
Do keep everything above the tail boom (or cone)
light. Remember that to remove an ounce, look for 100
places to remove 1/100th of an ounce... I crashed my
153" span, T-tailed glider 2 years ago, and the T-tail
survived intact, due to it's light weight and great
strength. It can be done. Put the weight and beef
where the strength needs to be. Everything else is
omitted or lightened as much as possible.
Enjoy your T-tails, regardless of what others say...
Jack Womack
--- Thomas Koszuta <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> Ever notice that almost all sailplanes and
> commercial jets have T-tails. I have. I think that
> they are the sweetest looking things ever put on
> sailplane. (The pictures of the Diana just brought
> this to mind.)
>
> Pros:
>
> Look REALLY cool.
> More Efficient (anyone have the numbers of how
> much efficiency gain there is?)
>
> Cons:
>
> Heavy - require more nose weight
> Fragile - more moment to cause damage
>
> Other things I've been pondering:
>
> Are they less affected by downwash changes with
> flaps or spoilers?
> Any real slick ideas for making them really
> light to improve dork tolerance and overall abuse
> resistance? Breakaway bolts?
>
>
> Tom Koszuta
> Western New York Sailplane and Electric Flyers
> Buffalo, NY
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