Model airplanes powered by compressed air ? Anyone ?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of powering model airplanes using compressed air. Shashank proposes using a rubber tire tube inflated to 60 PSI with a controlled aperture of 2.2 mm, calculating a force of 1.57 N to propel a 200 gm model. A participant notes that while the concept is intriguing, challenges such as the weight of the pressurized gas container and the need for a regulator to control flow rate must be addressed. Overall, the idea presents potential but requires careful consideration of materials and design.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, specifically force calculations (F = Pressure X Area).
  • Knowledge of materials suitable for pressurized gas containment, such as aluminum or steel.
  • Familiarity with model airplane design and aerodynamics.
  • Experience with gas regulators and flow control mechanisms.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and specifications of compressed air systems for model applications.
  • Explore the design and engineering of lightweight pressurized gas containers.
  • Learn about flow rate regulation techniques for compressed gas systems.
  • Investigate existing models of compressed gas-powered aircraft for performance insights.
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace hobbyists, model airplane enthusiasts, engineers interested in alternative propulsion systems, and anyone exploring compressed gas applications in aerodynamics.

ptllogic
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Model airplanes powered by compressed air ...?? Anyone ??

Hello,

Has anybody explored idea of powering aeroplane models by compressed air?

Does this seem to be viable idea?

Prima-facie:

Let's say a rubber tire tube (old days of car tires - now its all tube less) inflated to say 60 PSI with controlled aperture of 2.2 mm - valve operated - will exert force of 1.57 N (pls correct if wrong ; i have used simple formula : F = Pressure X Area)

Assuming the weight of model 200 gm this force would be sufficient to bring it in motion? can anyone help in calculating volume of tube required for this experiment?

Regards
Shashank
 
Physics news on Phys.org


I remember model airplanes being propelled by compressed CO2, so your idea doesn't seem that weird.
 


Biggest issue is weight. You would need an aluminum or steel container to hold the pressurized gas to get an appreciable amount of thrust to fly your model. Not to mention you may need a regulator too if you want to control the flow rate. It might be fun though to watch it blast off for a few seconds!
 

Similar threads

Power required to compress air in a gas turbine
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
6K
Plumbing Compressed air powered water pressure
  • · Replies 39 ·
2
Replies
39
Views
16K
Graduate Equation for spring force for a cylinder on compressed air
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
Undergrad Power generation using buoyancy, gravity and compressed air
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
9K
How can I determine the air pressure in a wind tunnel for an airplane drag test?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Calculating Compressed Air Propulsion: Methods and Formulas for Model Torpedoes
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Does an in-line 1-5psi air pump exist?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
7K
Undergrad Flow and Pressure: Increasing Air Circulation without a Fan
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Building a Model Car: Maximizing Efficiency with Newton's Law
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
Can Pedal Power Be Used to Create a Human-Powered Air-Kart?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
8K