rtfm
Well-Known Member
Hi,
I've spent a few hours today scouring the web for discussions around the use of T-tails, cruciform tails and low tails - pros and cons - with special reference to their relative effectiveness especially in a stall scenario.
Raymer suggests that the tail be out of the 60-30 degree arc of wing wake. I remember Orion saying that even in a stall, the aircraft has considerable forward motion, and he didn't foresee any real issue with a "wake-submerged" tail. On the web today, I read about the dangers associated with T-tails losing their effectiveness in stalls, and Raymer also says T-Tails are prone to losing effectiveness precisely when one needs it most in the flare.
What is the general opinion? On the Razorback, mounting the tail on top of the fin would put it in the wing wake. How serious is this in reality? Mounting the tail half way up/down the fin gets it out of the wing wake, but adds an additional interference drag area - although it would be easier to mount. Mounting a low tail gives added structural benefits, but no improvement over the cruciform configuration. And looks a bit dull.
Aesthetically, the T-tail looks great but might be a bit high, followed by the cruciform, with the low placement a sad last.
So, for the moment, I am undecided.
Anyone care to comment? Offer sane advice?
Regards,
Duncan
I've spent a few hours today scouring the web for discussions around the use of T-tails, cruciform tails and low tails - pros and cons - with special reference to their relative effectiveness especially in a stall scenario.
Raymer suggests that the tail be out of the 60-30 degree arc of wing wake. I remember Orion saying that even in a stall, the aircraft has considerable forward motion, and he didn't foresee any real issue with a "wake-submerged" tail. On the web today, I read about the dangers associated with T-tails losing their effectiveness in stalls, and Raymer also says T-Tails are prone to losing effectiveness precisely when one needs it most in the flare.
What is the general opinion? On the Razorback, mounting the tail on top of the fin would put it in the wing wake. How serious is this in reality? Mounting the tail half way up/down the fin gets it out of the wing wake, but adds an additional interference drag area - although it would be easier to mount. Mounting a low tail gives added structural benefits, but no improvement over the cruciform configuration. And looks a bit dull.
Aesthetically, the T-tail looks great but might be a bit high, followed by the cruciform, with the low placement a sad last.
So, for the moment, I am undecided.
Anyone care to comment? Offer sane advice?
Regards,
Duncan
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