Monday, August 25, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Radio control helicopter models info
How Radio Control Helicopter Models Fly
(All links open new windows)
If you're interested in flying
radio control helicopter models,
the first things to learn are how the helicopter works and how components work together to achieve flight.
The motions of RC helicopter models are classified into two types: cyclic and collective. Cyclic motions are lateral movements including forward, backward, left, and right. Collective motion is basically the up and down movement of the helicopter.
The parts of radio control helicopter models that seem to distinguish it from most other types of remote control vehicles are the main rotor blades. These are the blades on top of the helicopter that spin and angle to control motion. Just about anyone who thinks of a helicopter thinks of these components first. And rightfully so!
Changing the angle of these spinning blades controls much of the motion of the helicopter. Changing the angle of both blades at the same time causes collective motion. Changing the angle of an individual rotor blade causes cyclic motion, the direction depending on how the blade is angled.
The main rotor blades of radio control helicopter models are connected to the rotor head, the component in between them that spins, which is in turn connected to both the swash plate and the main shaft.
The main shaft is the rod responsible for the rotation of the rotor head and the main rotor blades. The swash plate, which is located below the rotor head, is responsible for the angling of the main rotor blades. Part of the swash plate is stationary, connected to the main body of the helicopter, while the other part is connected to the rotor head and rotates.
The swash plate transfers motion to the rotor head through pitch control rods. These rods move in response to changes in the swash plate and angle the rotor blades accordingly. All of these components working together control the flight of the helicopter.
Another important part of the radio control helicopter models relating to these controls is the gyro, or gyroscope. When the engine transfers energy to the rotor head and main rotor blades, causing them to turn, the natural reaction of the main body of the helicopter, the fuselage, is to turn in the opposite direction.
The tail rotor blades rotate to exert force in a sideways direction that keeps this from happening. How does the tail rotor know when to exert this force and how much to exert? Thats where the gyro comes in.
The gyro takes feedback from how the pilot is controlling the helicopter and how the helicopter is turning. If it determines the sideways spinning motion occurring is not being called for by the pilot, the gyro employs the tail rotor to react to keep the helicopter in the desired position.
Now that you have the basics of radio control helicopter models flight, youll know part what youre looking at when you select your model. Youll also know the basics of movement, which will go a long way in learning to control your helicopter.
(All links open new windows)
If you're interested in flying
radio control helicopter models,
the first things to learn are how the helicopter works and how components work together to achieve flight.
The motions of RC helicopter models are classified into two types: cyclic and collective. Cyclic motions are lateral movements including forward, backward, left, and right. Collective motion is basically the up and down movement of the helicopter.
The parts of radio control helicopter models that seem to distinguish it from most other types of remote control vehicles are the main rotor blades. These are the blades on top of the helicopter that spin and angle to control motion. Just about anyone who thinks of a helicopter thinks of these components first. And rightfully so!
Changing the angle of these spinning blades controls much of the motion of the helicopter. Changing the angle of both blades at the same time causes collective motion. Changing the angle of an individual rotor blade causes cyclic motion, the direction depending on how the blade is angled.
The main rotor blades of radio control helicopter models are connected to the rotor head, the component in between them that spins, which is in turn connected to both the swash plate and the main shaft.
The main shaft is the rod responsible for the rotation of the rotor head and the main rotor blades. The swash plate, which is located below the rotor head, is responsible for the angling of the main rotor blades. Part of the swash plate is stationary, connected to the main body of the helicopter, while the other part is connected to the rotor head and rotates.
The swash plate transfers motion to the rotor head through pitch control rods. These rods move in response to changes in the swash plate and angle the rotor blades accordingly. All of these components working together control the flight of the helicopter.
Another important part of the radio control helicopter models relating to these controls is the gyro, or gyroscope. When the engine transfers energy to the rotor head and main rotor blades, causing them to turn, the natural reaction of the main body of the helicopter, the fuselage, is to turn in the opposite direction.
The tail rotor blades rotate to exert force in a sideways direction that keeps this from happening. How does the tail rotor know when to exert this force and how much to exert? Thats where the gyro comes in.
The gyro takes feedback from how the pilot is controlling the helicopter and how the helicopter is turning. If it determines the sideways spinning motion occurring is not being called for by the pilot, the gyro employs the tail rotor to react to keep the helicopter in the desired position.
Now that you have the basics of radio control helicopter models flight, youll know part what youre looking at when you select your model. Youll also know the basics of movement, which will go a long way in learning to control your helicopter.
Mini radio control cars info
All About Mini Radio Control Cars
(All links open new windows)
Mini radio control cars
are fun, fun, fun!
Do you love the excitement of racing but dont want the investment of large-scale radio control race cars? Maybe you want something your young radio control driver can take out while watching the big kids play? Or perhaps you are a radio control junkie who goes into withdrawals watching your radio control car sit idle on a rainy day?
Either way, there are a growing number of mini radio control cars that just may do the trick.
These are zippy little creatures you can hold in the palm of one hand. They may be small, but this tiny size is part of their charm. One of the attractive features of these cars is that they can be used in small spaces that other radio control cars cant. All they need is a hard, flat surface and theyre ready to go.
Many of the mini radio control cars have a surprising range, some of them up to around 15 meters (40 feet or so). Be careful where you drive them, though, because the transmitter and car can loose their communication if they get out of eyesight of one another. Mini radio control cars also come in a limited variety of frequencies, enough to let you go head to head with another racer or two.
If you are buying more than one car, be sure to check the frequencies so you can take advantage of this variety. In some models, they have selectable channels so that different cars can use different variations of the same frequency.
The controls on most mini RC cars are a hand held device, about the size of a video game controller. These controls include forward, reverse, left, and right. This range of controls, especially the inclusion of the reverse feature, lets you get your car in and out of tight spots. Theyre pretty quick, too, although Im not sure they can outrun Spot so you may want to steer clear!
Mini radio control cars come in various popular car models. These include such models as the Cooper, Jeep, and Ferrari. Some, like the Radio Shack Zip Zaps, have shells that are interchangeable so you can switch the model of your car with a quick snap. Mini radio control vehicles also come in truck models such as the Hummer as well as motorcycles, boats and tanks.
The battery technology inside mini radio control cars is simple some are so simple there arent any batteries at all. In these cars, a capacitor inside the car holds a charge. This charge lasts about 5-6 minutes and then recharges in a minute or two using the car charger equipped with regular alkaline batteries. Other mini radio control cars have a small NiCd battery, which also charges quickly and lasts around 10 minutes per charge.
So if a larger radio control car isnt for you, check out the various models of mini radio control cars. They may turn out to be just what you are looking for.
(All links open new windows)
Mini radio control cars
are fun, fun, fun!
Do you love the excitement of racing but dont want the investment of large-scale radio control race cars? Maybe you want something your young radio control driver can take out while watching the big kids play? Or perhaps you are a radio control junkie who goes into withdrawals watching your radio control car sit idle on a rainy day?
Either way, there are a growing number of mini radio control cars that just may do the trick.
These are zippy little creatures you can hold in the palm of one hand. They may be small, but this tiny size is part of their charm. One of the attractive features of these cars is that they can be used in small spaces that other radio control cars cant. All they need is a hard, flat surface and theyre ready to go.
Many of the mini radio control cars have a surprising range, some of them up to around 15 meters (40 feet or so). Be careful where you drive them, though, because the transmitter and car can loose their communication if they get out of eyesight of one another. Mini radio control cars also come in a limited variety of frequencies, enough to let you go head to head with another racer or two.
If you are buying more than one car, be sure to check the frequencies so you can take advantage of this variety. In some models, they have selectable channels so that different cars can use different variations of the same frequency.
The controls on most mini RC cars are a hand held device, about the size of a video game controller. These controls include forward, reverse, left, and right. This range of controls, especially the inclusion of the reverse feature, lets you get your car in and out of tight spots. Theyre pretty quick, too, although Im not sure they can outrun Spot so you may want to steer clear!
Mini radio control cars come in various popular car models. These include such models as the Cooper, Jeep, and Ferrari. Some, like the Radio Shack Zip Zaps, have shells that are interchangeable so you can switch the model of your car with a quick snap. Mini radio control vehicles also come in truck models such as the Hummer as well as motorcycles, boats and tanks.
The battery technology inside mini radio control cars is simple some are so simple there arent any batteries at all. In these cars, a capacitor inside the car holds a charge. This charge lasts about 5-6 minutes and then recharges in a minute or two using the car charger equipped with regular alkaline batteries. Other mini radio control cars have a small NiCd battery, which also charges quickly and lasts around 10 minutes per charge.
So if a larger radio control car isnt for you, check out the various models of mini radio control cars. They may turn out to be just what you are looking for.
RC hobby links to other useful sites
Great Sources of RC Hobby Info and Free Plans!
(All links open new RC hobby windows)@import url(http://www.google.com/cse/api/branding.css); Custom Search
Hi, I've listed many of the very best RC websites here after exhaustively searching the Internet. My goal is to provide you with valuable information and products to save you time and money. So be sure to "bookmark this page" because I'm always updating the information!
RC Airplane Plans
AeroFred.comShare and Download Thousands of Free R/C Plans...
SmoothAir.caRegister here for excellent free plan downloads & more
X List PlansPLANES and BOATS and TRAINS plans for BEGINNERS through to EXPERTS - and at reasonable prices.
GeoCities.comFree electric plane plans
Marcelluswallace.free.frFoam fighter jet downloadable plans
BalsaDust.netEuropean home of some excellent Free airplane plan downloads
VintageRcPlans.comHuge selection of top quality plans at reasonable prices
RcStore.comHuge selection of gas and electric airplane plans...don't miss it
RC Content and Information Sites
RCHeliSite.comPlenty of useful RC helicopter information
Model Airplane SecretsVery well written, get your copy now!
RC Hobby UniverseHighly recommended beginner's guide with expert advice on radio control
RcFly.co.ukBeginners Guide to Flying Radio
Control Powered Model Aircraft**70 page PDF eBook
SkyRangersModelFlyers.comTop notch flying club located in Kamloops, BC Canada
RCHelifever.comArticles and a forum for RC helicopter enthusiasts
Aircraft Proving GroundUseful articles and other resources...check it out
Build the best paper airplane in the World!
RC electronic circuits you can build
RCHelicopterFun.comDiscover the fun and rewarding hobby of flying RC helicopters. Fromtoy to turbine, RC helis provide a lifetime of rotor adventure.
RC Hobby Directories
HobbyLine.comRecreation and Hobby Directory
Models resourcesDirectory of Models related websites
2SearchSmartHuman Edited Web Directory
CanDo DirectoryVarious website categories
Symbianize Pinoy
Check out..
RC Video Sites
Ras-RC-VideosJoe Nall, Florida Jets, Ircha Jamboree,Crashers and more...
World Championship & Major RC on DVD - Multi camera coverage of the World's Best Drivers at the World's Best Events
ModelFlight.com.auMany, many RC airplane video clips!
Electric Foamie RC Airplane Sources
FoamTasticModels.comPutting the FUN in foam flying!
FoamFly.comMust have fan-fold foam plans & info
FunPlanes.comARFs that fly and can take a rough landing as well!
FancyFoam.comMore foam airplanes
3DFoamy.comGreat collection of Free plans downloads & exciting kits
STCFree plans & build guide for this foamie plane
Recommended Suppliers/Dealers
Red Rocket HobbiesEverything in radio control is here!
TrendTimesU.S. based online RC hobby store that ships internationally
RC Discounts SuperstoreBig selection of RTF RC planes, helis, cars, boats and toys
PrecisionCutKits.comHuge assortment of the finest hand and laser cut airplane kits!
Miscellaneous
The Real Flight G3 3D flight simulator is the most impressive software I've ever seen! Click on picture to read about it.
AerialProducts.comGiant advertising balloons, remote controlled blimps, aerial photography equipment, helium balloons, dirigibles, RC blimps. The balloon and blimp factory - worldwide delivery.
(All links open new RC hobby windows)@import url(http://www.google.com/cse/api/branding.css); Custom Search
Hi, I've listed many of the very best RC websites here after exhaustively searching the Internet. My goal is to provide you with valuable information and products to save you time and money. So be sure to "bookmark this page" because I'm always updating the information!
RC Airplane Plans
AeroFred.comShare and Download Thousands of Free R/C Plans...
SmoothAir.caRegister here for excellent free plan downloads & more
X List PlansPLANES and BOATS and TRAINS plans for BEGINNERS through to EXPERTS - and at reasonable prices.
GeoCities.comFree electric plane plans
Marcelluswallace.free.frFoam fighter jet downloadable plans
BalsaDust.netEuropean home of some excellent Free airplane plan downloads
VintageRcPlans.comHuge selection of top quality plans at reasonable prices
RcStore.comHuge selection of gas and electric airplane plans...don't miss it
RC Content and Information Sites
RCHeliSite.comPlenty of useful RC helicopter information
Model Airplane SecretsVery well written, get your copy now!
RC Hobby UniverseHighly recommended beginner's guide with expert advice on radio control
RcFly.co.ukBeginners Guide to Flying Radio
Control Powered Model Aircraft**70 page PDF eBook
SkyRangersModelFlyers.comTop notch flying club located in Kamloops, BC Canada
RCHelifever.comArticles and a forum for RC helicopter enthusiasts
Aircraft Proving GroundUseful articles and other resources...check it out
Build the best paper airplane in the World!
RC electronic circuits you can build
RCHelicopterFun.comDiscover the fun and rewarding hobby of flying RC helicopters. Fromtoy to turbine, RC helis provide a lifetime of rotor adventure.
RC Hobby Directories
HobbyLine.comRecreation and Hobby Directory
Models resourcesDirectory of Models related websites
2SearchSmartHuman Edited Web Directory
CanDo DirectoryVarious website categories
Symbianize Pinoy
Check out..
RC Video Sites
Ras-RC-VideosJoe Nall, Florida Jets, Ircha Jamboree,Crashers and more...
World Championship & Major RC on DVD - Multi camera coverage of the World's Best Drivers at the World's Best Events
ModelFlight.com.auMany, many RC airplane video clips!
Electric Foamie RC Airplane Sources
FoamTasticModels.comPutting the FUN in foam flying!
FoamFly.comMust have fan-fold foam plans & info
FunPlanes.comARFs that fly and can take a rough landing as well!
FancyFoam.comMore foam airplanes
3DFoamy.comGreat collection of Free plans downloads & exciting kits
STCFree plans & build guide for this foamie plane
Recommended Suppliers/Dealers
Red Rocket HobbiesEverything in radio control is here!
TrendTimesU.S. based online RC hobby store that ships internationally
RC Discounts SuperstoreBig selection of RTF RC planes, helis, cars, boats and toys
PrecisionCutKits.comHuge assortment of the finest hand and laser cut airplane kits!
Miscellaneous
The Real Flight G3 3D flight simulator is the most impressive software I've ever seen! Click on picture to read about it.
AerialProducts.comGiant advertising balloons, remote controlled blimps, aerial photography equipment, helium balloons, dirigibles, RC blimps. The balloon and blimp factory - worldwide delivery.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
How to work with Depron foam for model airplanes
Your Source for Depron Foam Information
"Foamies" are model foam planes made from Depron foam, in this case radio control planes. It's proving to be a very popular item with my model airpane customers because of it's superior strength and appearance compared with BlueCore or fan-fold foam. Developed in Europe, its primary use is for thermal insulation under wallpaper and as a flooring underlayment. Depron isnt very common in North America except for use as meat trays, quite useful themselves if you can find some large unused ones to make snow skis, struts, etc.It's actually polystyrene (EPS/XPS) plastic and the (EPS) means expanded while (XPS) means extruded. For our purposes, were only interested in the stronger, denser XPS foam which also happens to be a closed-cell foam. Open or Closed cell refers to its structure and because open cell foam soaks up all fluids (water & glue) its just not suitable for a foamie plane. The superior closed cell foam takes much less glue and is easier to waterproof. It's one sealed surface adds considerable strength as well as making it very easy to apply paint finishes. To summarize, here are its advantages:You don't have to worry about grain direction and splitting like with balsa woodEach sheet is is consistently identical to every other pieceCan easily be curved into airfoil shapesColors come out nice and bright compared to painting over pink, blue or gray foam that needs to be primed firstDoesn't absorb moisture and you don't have to spend time sealing it to prevent warping in summerThe 3, 5 & 6mm thicknesses are primarily used for building large scale models, indoor flyers, 3D foam flyers, gliders, etc. Its great for structural supports and one piece foam plane fuselages because of its strength. The thinner Depron makes excellent skins for covering models instead of using expensive balsa wood. For extra strengthening requirements (wings, fuselage, struts, pushrods, etc), use carbon fiber rods, tubes and strips It's quite easy to work with and no special cutting tools are required. A common #11 Exacto blade or single edged razor blade is all you need. It cuts very nicely with these tools but to ensure straight cuts be sure to use a long metal ruler.Depron foam cannot be heated without losing shape and in fact will shrink in width and length too. It also becomes brittle and thickens with heat because of the numerous tiny gas filled cells in it. So in order to overcome those handicaps while shaping it with heat, heres what we need to do:pre-heat a wooden mould of the desired shape in an oven for 20-30 min at 80-90 deg.C (176-194deg.F)form the piece around the heated wooden core or mould by first carefully cold-crushing it without cracking it.wrap clear packing tape tight around the whole outside. This forces the foam to follow the shape of the mould, and prevents increasing in thickness. place it in an electric oven for 15 minutes at 80-90 deg.C (176-194deg.F) remove from oven and let cool for at least 1 hour. This will fix the shape of the mould into the depron, and retain its strength too.To assemble your models, I recommend you use 5 min. or 30 min. epoxy. Be sure to use it very sparingly because it's a heavy glue. Foam-safe CA glue can also be used but its quite expensive AND you need to spray on an accelerator otherwise it will take overnight to dry. Be aware that many solvents and paints will destroy this foam so be sure to use only water-based latex paints commonly found in craft stores.
"Foamies" are model foam planes made from Depron foam, in this case radio control planes. It's proving to be a very popular item with my model airpane customers because of it's superior strength and appearance compared with BlueCore or fan-fold foam. Developed in Europe, its primary use is for thermal insulation under wallpaper and as a flooring underlayment. Depron isnt very common in North America except for use as meat trays, quite useful themselves if you can find some large unused ones to make snow skis, struts, etc.It's actually polystyrene (EPS/XPS) plastic and the (EPS) means expanded while (XPS) means extruded. For our purposes, were only interested in the stronger, denser XPS foam which also happens to be a closed-cell foam. Open or Closed cell refers to its structure and because open cell foam soaks up all fluids (water & glue) its just not suitable for a foamie plane. The superior closed cell foam takes much less glue and is easier to waterproof. It's one sealed surface adds considerable strength as well as making it very easy to apply paint finishes. To summarize, here are its advantages:You don't have to worry about grain direction and splitting like with balsa woodEach sheet is is consistently identical to every other pieceCan easily be curved into airfoil shapesColors come out nice and bright compared to painting over pink, blue or gray foam that needs to be primed firstDoesn't absorb moisture and you don't have to spend time sealing it to prevent warping in summerThe 3, 5 & 6mm thicknesses are primarily used for building large scale models, indoor flyers, 3D foam flyers, gliders, etc. Its great for structural supports and one piece foam plane fuselages because of its strength. The thinner Depron makes excellent skins for covering models instead of using expensive balsa wood. For extra strengthening requirements (wings, fuselage, struts, pushrods, etc), use carbon fiber rods, tubes and strips It's quite easy to work with and no special cutting tools are required. A common #11 Exacto blade or single edged razor blade is all you need. It cuts very nicely with these tools but to ensure straight cuts be sure to use a long metal ruler.Depron foam cannot be heated without losing shape and in fact will shrink in width and length too. It also becomes brittle and thickens with heat because of the numerous tiny gas filled cells in it. So in order to overcome those handicaps while shaping it with heat, heres what we need to do:pre-heat a wooden mould of the desired shape in an oven for 20-30 min at 80-90 deg.C (176-194deg.F)form the piece around the heated wooden core or mould by first carefully cold-crushing it without cracking it.wrap clear packing tape tight around the whole outside. This forces the foam to follow the shape of the mould, and prevents increasing in thickness. place it in an electric oven for 15 minutes at 80-90 deg.C (176-194deg.F) remove from oven and let cool for at least 1 hour. This will fix the shape of the mould into the depron, and retain its strength too.To assemble your models, I recommend you use 5 min. or 30 min. epoxy. Be sure to use it very sparingly because it's a heavy glue. Foam-safe CA glue can also be used but its quite expensive AND you need to spray on an accelerator otherwise it will take overnight to dry. Be aware that many solvents and paints will destroy this foam so be sure to use only water-based latex paints commonly found in craft stores.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Must read lithium battery information and order form
The Amazing RC Lithium Battery
(All links open new windows)
Lithium battery
technology is based on the material characteristics of lithium - the lightest metal with the highest electrochemical potential of any solid material. The technology has not yet fully matured and is still being improved continuously as new metal and chemical combinations are being tried to increase energy density and prolong service life.In many ways, lithium is superior to nickel and lead-based chemistries and the applications for a lithium battery are growing as a result. One of the most exciting applications of course is in the radio control hobby field. A lithium battery prefers a partial rather than a full discharge and frequent full discharges should be avoided when possible. Instead, charge the battery more often (they are good for 300-500 discharge/charge cycles) or use a larger battery. There is no concern of memory when applying unscheduled charges.Aging of lithium-ion is an issue that is often ignored and a lithium battery has a lifetime of 2-3 years. The clock starts ticking as soon as the battery comes off the manufacturing line and the capacity loss is the result of increased internal resistance caused by oxidation. Eventually, the cell resistance will reach a point where the pack can no longer deliver the stored energy, although the battery may still contain ample charge. With lithium cells, there is always the risk of fire which can result from shorting, improper charging or crash damage to the batteries. And because a lithium battery fire is very hot (several thousand degrees) it often starts other fires which can result in burning down the house! Now the reason fire occurs is due to contact between the lithium and oxygen in the air. It doesnt need any other source of ignition or fuel to start, and burns almost explosively.Please follow these simple safety rules:Store and charge in a fireproof container, never in your model. I keep and charge mine in a metal garbage can lid. Never leave the charging process unattended, especially overnight. Charge in a protected area away from any combustibles. Always stand watch over the charging process. Never attempt to charge a lithium battery that has been damaged and if it has been damaged, carefully remove it to a safe place for at least a half hour to observe. After sufficient time to ensure safety, damaged cells should be discarded at a recycling depot, not in the garbage.. Always use a dedicated lithium charger, never a Ni-Cd/NiMh charger. Use charging systems that monitor and control the charge state of each cell in the pack because unbalanced cells can lead to the overcharge of a single cell in the pack resulting in swelling. If swelling occurs, discontinue charging immediately and remove to a safe place outside.Other than thatenjoy!!Superior lithium ion polymer batteries (LiPol or LiPo) like the Thunder Power above and the Apogee batteries below, use a polymer electrolyte that can be packaged in flexible material and designed to prevent explosion making them safe to handle as an RC battery. These cells offer working voltages in the range of 3.0~4.2V compared to 1.2V~1.5V for lead acid, NiCd, and NiMh rechargeable batteries so it takes only half the number of cells to achieve the same voltage. Note: as I mentioned, many chargers used in the radio control market today can't support the lithium rechargeable battery characteristics and therefore require their own unique charger, which you'll find by clicking here. LiPoly Battery Features:Thunder Power, E-Flight and Apogee are some of the best lithium batteries on the market!Up to 1000 cycles (twice the ordinary)Extremely lightweight & compactProvides 5X the operating time of same-sized NiCdsNo memory effect3.7 volt cell output provides 3X the reliability of NiCdsCell chemistry is non-toxic and contains no carcinogens
(All links open new windows)
Lithium battery
technology is based on the material characteristics of lithium - the lightest metal with the highest electrochemical potential of any solid material. The technology has not yet fully matured and is still being improved continuously as new metal and chemical combinations are being tried to increase energy density and prolong service life.In many ways, lithium is superior to nickel and lead-based chemistries and the applications for a lithium battery are growing as a result. One of the most exciting applications of course is in the radio control hobby field. A lithium battery prefers a partial rather than a full discharge and frequent full discharges should be avoided when possible. Instead, charge the battery more often (they are good for 300-500 discharge/charge cycles) or use a larger battery. There is no concern of memory when applying unscheduled charges.Aging of lithium-ion is an issue that is often ignored and a lithium battery has a lifetime of 2-3 years. The clock starts ticking as soon as the battery comes off the manufacturing line and the capacity loss is the result of increased internal resistance caused by oxidation. Eventually, the cell resistance will reach a point where the pack can no longer deliver the stored energy, although the battery may still contain ample charge. With lithium cells, there is always the risk of fire which can result from shorting, improper charging or crash damage to the batteries. And because a lithium battery fire is very hot (several thousand degrees) it often starts other fires which can result in burning down the house! Now the reason fire occurs is due to contact between the lithium and oxygen in the air. It doesnt need any other source of ignition or fuel to start, and burns almost explosively.Please follow these simple safety rules:Store and charge in a fireproof container, never in your model. I keep and charge mine in a metal garbage can lid. Never leave the charging process unattended, especially overnight. Charge in a protected area away from any combustibles. Always stand watch over the charging process. Never attempt to charge a lithium battery that has been damaged and if it has been damaged, carefully remove it to a safe place for at least a half hour to observe. After sufficient time to ensure safety, damaged cells should be discarded at a recycling depot, not in the garbage.. Always use a dedicated lithium charger, never a Ni-Cd/NiMh charger. Use charging systems that monitor and control the charge state of each cell in the pack because unbalanced cells can lead to the overcharge of a single cell in the pack resulting in swelling. If swelling occurs, discontinue charging immediately and remove to a safe place outside.Other than thatenjoy!!Superior lithium ion polymer batteries (LiPol or LiPo) like the Thunder Power above and the Apogee batteries below, use a polymer electrolyte that can be packaged in flexible material and designed to prevent explosion making them safe to handle as an RC battery. These cells offer working voltages in the range of 3.0~4.2V compared to 1.2V~1.5V for lead acid, NiCd, and NiMh rechargeable batteries so it takes only half the number of cells to achieve the same voltage. Note: as I mentioned, many chargers used in the radio control market today can't support the lithium rechargeable battery characteristics and therefore require their own unique charger, which you'll find by clicking here. LiPoly Battery Features:Thunder Power, E-Flight and Apogee are some of the best lithium batteries on the market!Up to 1000 cycles (twice the ordinary)Extremely lightweight & compactProvides 5X the operating time of same-sized NiCdsNo memory effect3.7 volt cell output provides 3X the reliability of NiCdsCell chemistry is non-toxic and contains no carcinogens
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Radio Control Nitro Cars
Enter The World of Radio Control Nitro Cars
While electric models may be less expensive and easier to operate, "gas" powered
radio control nitro cars
and trucks have the definite edge when it comes to realism and performance. These RC cars are NOT powered by gasoline-they use a special fuel, commonly referred to as "glow fuel" or "nitro." But they do capture the sights and sounds of real, full-size racing like no electric can. The nitro RC car engines roar powerfully...exhaust vapors trail your machine...and the speeds are unbelievable (up to 80 mph!)
There is a huge variety to choose from: trucks, buggies, sedans, stock cars and more. Many come in "sport" or "competition" versions. First-timers might prefer the sport models gas powered rc cars for their lower cost, though if you're set on racing your radio control nitro cars you may want some competition features, such as ball bearings and oil shocks. When you choose a nitro RC car, make sure you understand what it does and does not include. Some kits already come with an engine. Competition-level cars provide the basic chassis, but often require you to purchase an engine and body separately.
You can control radio control nitro cars with the same type of 2-channel radio system used for an electric model. The one difference is that you will also need batteries to power the receiver in your vehicle. There is no battery pack for this RC cars motor that might also be used to power the receiver.
Some gas powered RC cars are powered by 4-cycle small internal combustion "glow" engines but most use a 2-cycle unit. They burn a nitromethane-based fuel that includes special lubricants for engine protection.
In addition to glow fuel, a number of fuel accessories are available that make it easier to operate radio control nitro cars. To get the fuel from its container into your model's tank, for example, you can use a Fuel Pump (powered and hand-crank options are available), suction-type Fuel Bulb, or a small Fuel Bottle with specially angled neck for reaching easily into confined areas. And fuel filters, installed in the fuel lines, will trap impurities before they can reach and possibly damage your RC cars engine.
Full-size automobile engines use spark plugs that ignite fuel with a spark...glow engines use a "glow plug" that, once heated with a battery-powered "glow starter," hold that heat to continue igniting the glow fuel as you race. Your radio control nitro cars engine may or may not come with a glow plug. Regardless, you will need additional plugs because they do need to be replaced-it's always a good idea to take several spares with you to the track for your RC cars. The glow starter, too, must be purchased separately.
You now have an assembled nitro RC car or truck, a radio, an engine and fuel. That covers the basic equipment that makes an assembled gas model ready race. But you need a few additional items to transform it from a static machine to a radio control nitro cars that springs into action at your command. Those include the following pieces of track equipment. (Remember, the vast majority of these are one-time purchases. Buy them once and you're all set for a long, thrilling nitro RC car racing career!)
12V 5 Amp Field Battery - to power all of your electric track equipment
12V Charger - to recharge the field battery
Glow Starter or Glow Plug Clip - both of these items provide your glow plug with the initial heat it needs to burn fuel; a Glow Starter carries its own battery, while a Glow Plug Clip is powered by your field battery.
Starter Box or 12V Starter with Car Adapter - if your radio control nitro cars engine is not equipped with its own recoil starter, you will need one of these devices to start it.
So there you have it, everything needed for you to burn up the track with your RC cars and trucks...Enjoy!
While electric models may be less expensive and easier to operate, "gas" powered
radio control nitro cars
and trucks have the definite edge when it comes to realism and performance. These RC cars are NOT powered by gasoline-they use a special fuel, commonly referred to as "glow fuel" or "nitro." But they do capture the sights and sounds of real, full-size racing like no electric can. The nitro RC car engines roar powerfully...exhaust vapors trail your machine...and the speeds are unbelievable (up to 80 mph!)
There is a huge variety to choose from: trucks, buggies, sedans, stock cars and more. Many come in "sport" or "competition" versions. First-timers might prefer the sport models gas powered rc cars for their lower cost, though if you're set on racing your radio control nitro cars you may want some competition features, such as ball bearings and oil shocks. When you choose a nitro RC car, make sure you understand what it does and does not include. Some kits already come with an engine. Competition-level cars provide the basic chassis, but often require you to purchase an engine and body separately.
You can control radio control nitro cars with the same type of 2-channel radio system used for an electric model. The one difference is that you will also need batteries to power the receiver in your vehicle. There is no battery pack for this RC cars motor that might also be used to power the receiver.
Some gas powered RC cars are powered by 4-cycle small internal combustion "glow" engines but most use a 2-cycle unit. They burn a nitromethane-based fuel that includes special lubricants for engine protection.
In addition to glow fuel, a number of fuel accessories are available that make it easier to operate radio control nitro cars. To get the fuel from its container into your model's tank, for example, you can use a Fuel Pump (powered and hand-crank options are available), suction-type Fuel Bulb, or a small Fuel Bottle with specially angled neck for reaching easily into confined areas. And fuel filters, installed in the fuel lines, will trap impurities before they can reach and possibly damage your RC cars engine.
Full-size automobile engines use spark plugs that ignite fuel with a spark...glow engines use a "glow plug" that, once heated with a battery-powered "glow starter," hold that heat to continue igniting the glow fuel as you race. Your radio control nitro cars engine may or may not come with a glow plug. Regardless, you will need additional plugs because they do need to be replaced-it's always a good idea to take several spares with you to the track for your RC cars. The glow starter, too, must be purchased separately.
You now have an assembled nitro RC car or truck, a radio, an engine and fuel. That covers the basic equipment that makes an assembled gas model ready race. But you need a few additional items to transform it from a static machine to a radio control nitro cars that springs into action at your command. Those include the following pieces of track equipment. (Remember, the vast majority of these are one-time purchases. Buy them once and you're all set for a long, thrilling nitro RC car racing career!)
12V 5 Amp Field Battery - to power all of your electric track equipment
12V Charger - to recharge the field battery
Glow Starter or Glow Plug Clip - both of these items provide your glow plug with the initial heat it needs to burn fuel; a Glow Starter carries its own battery, while a Glow Plug Clip is powered by your field battery.
Starter Box or 12V Starter with Car Adapter - if your radio control nitro cars engine is not equipped with its own recoil starter, you will need one of these devices to start it.
So there you have it, everything needed for you to burn up the track with your RC cars and trucks...Enjoy!
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