What are some factors to consider before buying RC jet planes?
Have you ever flown a remote-controlled aircraft? The sight of the little machine flying in the skies, whirring as it does, is incredibly satisfying.
There are various remote-controlled planes like gliders, park flyers, warbirds, and helicopters. But if you’re looking for speed, thrill, and excitement, look no further than RC jet planes.
RC jet planes are miniature-sized versions of regular jets. Depending on the model, construction, engine type, and design, they can attain speeds between 30 and 150 mph.
However, although these intelligent planes are not difficult to fly, it takes some time to get used to the movement, speed, controls, and maneuvering till you are confident of handling them efficiently. But that doesn’t mean beginners cannot fly them, as a few jets serve as trainer airplanes for beginner pilots.
If you have a passion for flying fast gliders and enthusiastically pursue it as a hobby, these are some things you must consider before buying one for yourself.
How much do they cost?
The specific cost of small RC jets depends on the model, material, technology, and brand. You will find these machines in the price range of $100 USD to more than $500 USD. If you are a beginner pilot, it’s better to buy a cheap one initially till you gain more flying experience, at which point you can buy an expensive model.
What engine is used in these flyers?
Manufacturers use various engines for jet model planes. For example, some use electric ducted fans (EDF) that run on powerful brushless electric motors, which convert electrical energy into mechanical energy.
Manufacturers also use fuel-powered turbine engines, where the gas acts as the working fluid to rotate the engine. It is the most popular engine used in trains, ships, pumps, electrical generators, tanks, and compressors.
As an amateur hobbyist, the best option is to choose jet trainers that use unique flight assistance technology, making them easier to control at low speeds.
Which technology does it run on?
Most jets run on SAFE™, AS3X, and Smart technology, depending on the model.
Sensor-Assisted Flight Envelope (SAFE) enhances the flight model of your plane and consists of multi-axis sensors and software. It offers the benefit of smoother flight capability, which lets you fly efficiently during windy conditions with the highest protection.
AS3X technology, in combination with SAFE, lends your plane enhanced stability, regardless of the altitude at which your jet flies. It fulfills this function with flight control software and sensors and protects your aircraft against the wind, torque, tip-stall, and sensitivity issues.
You will find models that combine AS3X and SAFE or those which combine AS3X, Smart, and SAFE technologies.
Type of material used
Most models are made of either EPO or wood.
EPO is an extremely durable and rigid material and highly resistant to damage. Expanded polyolefin or EPO refers to plastic foam molded into various shapes using heat.
The wood manufacturers use to build RC jets is Balsa because it is solid and lightweight. Interestingly, this wood is so light that you can only see it with a microscope.
Choosing the EDF
Electric duct fans (EDF) enable the plane to fly at high speed with increased efficiency using multi-bladed propellers, which absorb air and spin it at high speeds.
You can choose from 90, 70, or 80 millimeters fans, but it is better to select the highest diameter to get the best performance.
RC jet planes are fast, and flying them is something that all radio control flyers look forward to. Before buying one of these for yourself, it is advisable to consider its technology, engine, model, and other factors like the ones mentioned above to ensure you get the best jet.
