news
Issue 2 of 2015
Newsletter of the South African Model Aircraft Association Published electronically/digitally. Our Mission: To add value to your flying experience through communication, information, promotion, education and the support of dialogue
TOSS Aerobatics 2015 by Kevin Farr
Chapman’s Peak on Saturday morning. Vignette above shows Hans van Kamp launching Aresti.
Clickety Click...come in number Six. Six years of pure-bred aerobatics contesting and still the slope gods bedevil the event and add spice to the 2015 Two Oceans Slope Soaring Aerobatics competition. As per usual, Dave Greer flew in from Durban to once again attend the event as he has done since the inauguration. All plans were finalised and an unseasonal North Wester was predicted, something that happened rather too often during this summer, which is generally governed in our part of the world by howling incessant South East Trade winds. But alas, the wind models ruled, and the Saturday morning dawned windless with the very lightest of North Westerly breezes rustling the leaves. A call was made to gather at the Fish Hoek power field, and so the lads took to a bit of electric flat field flying while munching on the breakfast supplied by the excellent caterers. As the morning progressed, the wind started to gather and so a decision was made to gather at the Chapman's Peak site and see in the wind. Hot and bumpy was the order of the day, with massive lift and heavy sink all playing with the high speed gliders that were able to jump, limp, and scream from one pocket of lift to the next.
Dave Greer from Durban claiming first place in the Sportsman-class. Shown at left with his Mini-Vector.
Sportsman's class was next up and the conditions were really starting to work well and so they battled it out while the judges took note. At this stage our venerable friend from Natal, Dave Greer up and took the event from all around him with a well timed charge.
By lunchtime, conditions had still not settled enough to call a clear round of competition and so your scribe took a runner to Signal Hill to assess the situation there. One of the weirdest things of this part of the world is that you can literally have four seasons in one day, depending which part of the peninsula you are on, and true to form, the North Wester was howling through at Signal Hill. A quick call to the Contest Director, and all participants made for Signal Hill. But, true to form, as the crew arrived and set up for a round, a fog started to develop on the lip of the hill and eventually became a thick blanket racing through at hill-top level as the ice cold air hit the warm hill, and visibility was reduced to zero in a matter of minutes. All contestants then took to sitting like gorillas in the mist and chatting the remaining hour of so away, before heading home. Sunday dawned clear as a bell, but with the wind predicted from the North West, which adds a level of oddity to the event, as the traditional South East trade wind should have ruled the event, but went missing. An early morning recon to the Chapman's Peak showed light at best, and so a scout was sent to Signal Hill. Although light, the conditions were as smooth as silk, and had the energy to support a round of aerobatics. The rest of the contestants dutifully charged up the hill and set up camp.
Kevin Farr and the 4m ASW.
Your scribe decided to test the limits of the competition, in the interest of looking at a possible scale class next year, and flew the 4 metre scale ASW through the Sportsman's round in as scale a fashion as possible. In the end the high class Vector 111 and Mini Vectors ruled the class, as being specifically built for the purpose at hand. And it was our ever popular Dave Greer that took the Sportsman's class and earned himself the “Rock of Support” award for attending the event each and every year since inception, as well as the coveted first place.
With paragliders in the air at the same time it was sometimes a tough task to avoid them and complete a manoeuvre. Expert class were first out the blocks and the battle raged through the morning hours through to lunch, with conditions slowly improving throughout the day. The top three were as close as can be again, and between Christo, Marc, and Louis they had a fantastic battle. Christo le Roux flew proud with his Taranis talking him through his round, and showing the potential of the radio to assist in practice as well as competition, and he took a well-deserved first position, followed by Louis Genade and Marc Wolffe.
Marc Wolffe’s Primarius gets the heave-ho.
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 1
Our unbridled thanks needs to go to the Judges, Andrew Anderson and Stuart Nix for their sterling effort on the day and their due diligence over the years, Andrew specifically having been a judge at each and every event so far. A large dollop of thanks go to Jeff Steffen and Bill Dewey for being the CD and the safety officer on both days and for making the tough calls. Thanks to Dave Semple and Georg Lerm for handling the scoring, and to the caterers a great big old thank you once again for keeping the mob fed and happy.
Judges Andrew Anderson and Stuart Nix.
Alan Ball after retrieval of Vector.
Alan Ball with assistance from Malcolm Riley.
Christo le Roux wins the Expert-class.
Ryan Matchett and Dylan Else get scored.
Louis Genade (Tx) and Hans van Kamp.
Participants and judges get the photo call, with Table Mountain and clear skies in the background.
One of the great things about the event is as always the stunning prizes given by our awesome sponsors who we cannot thank enough for the never-ending support of the hobby. Till next year, slope soar your hearts out, but come back for the event. Sportsman Class
Expert Class
In the Sportsman-class, contestants will fly the five mandatory manoeuvres, plus any other five manoeuvres that must be chosen from the list of fifteen optional manoeuvres. The number to the right of the manoeuvre is its “K” or “difficulty factor”.
In the Expert-class, contestants must choose any five manoeuvres from both list A and list B, for a total of ten optional manoeuvres. The number to the right of the manoeuvre is its “K” or “difficulty factor”.
No. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Mandatory manoeuvres Split S Straight inverted Double Immelmann Half reverse Cuban Eight Two rolls
K Factor 2 2 3 3 3
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
Optional manoeuvres One roll Stall turn Immelmann One inside loop Half Cuban Eight Two inside loops Outside stall turn Three inside loops Vertical eight Reverse Cuban Eight Cuban Eight Barrel roll Rolling loop Square loop
2 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5
No. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
List A manoeuvres Alternating roll Slow roll Four-point roll Three rolls Ching Ching Chong Chong Four-point TOSS roll Figure M Thread the needle Sharks tooth Damian roll Eight-point roll
K Factor 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 7 7
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.
List B manoeuvres Cuban eight Downward six Rolling loop Three outside loops Square loop Horizontal eight Outside Cuban eight Outside reverse Cuban eight Twisted loop Outside barrel roll Horizontal eight with half roll Sunny side up
4 4 5 4 5 5 5 6 6 6 7 7
Malcolm Riley launches Aresti.
Nic Steffen launching Noel Cochius’ Vector.
Results 2015 Two Oceans Slope Soarers Aerobatic Event Pl. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Sportsman Class Pilot Dave Greer Hans van Kamp Ryan Matchett Kevin Farr Dylan Els Schalk Human
Perc. 100.00 97.53 92.15 91.48 56.50 50.22
Pl. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Expert Class Pilot Christo le Roux Louis Genade Marc Wolffe Malcolm Riley William Cranmer Alan Ball Steven Meusel Noel Cochius
Perc. 100.00 98.50 81.47 66.40 64.90 61.10 56.27 46.72
“Slope soar your hearts out, but come back next year!”
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 2
Lime Acres
2015
Text and photos by Wynand Swart Anthony Oliver from Bloemfontein with his beautiful J-10 jet. Sorry for the crash, but we know you can fix it for next time.
What a weekend with friends! This third fly-in at Lime Acres was once again one of the best events for the model aircraft enthusiast. It was hosted by Petra Diamond Mine in Lime Acres on the mine airfield, on Saturday, 2 May. The pilots started arriving on Thursday and made the most of the runway. Many large scale aircraft and jets, as well as a large variety of smaller scale, electric, 3D aircraft, and nitro planes were flown.
Pilots came from Bloemfontein, Welkom, Kimberley, and Gauteng to support the event which was organised by Owen Smith and his brother, Brian Smith and supported and enjoyed by the pilots and their families and friends, as well as the local public. There were people cooking, and serving pancakes, and sosaties, and boerewors, and hamburgers, and cool drinks, and ice-creams. The event was opened by Owen Smith and pilots briefing was handled by Wynand Swart. Safety was the main issue for the weekend with no aircraft filling and spilling fuel on the runways.
by Keith Renecle. Photos by Theo Kleynhans, Andrew de Beer, Marietjie Skinner,
Above left... Koos Pretorius from Gauteng: “Can I park my YAK up there in the hangar; I still want to fly tomorrow morning before we go back to Johannesburg?” On the right, Wesley Denysschen from Gauteng is starting the engine of his 100cc YAK, with a relaxed Werner Swart from Bloemfontein helping him. Most of the pilots and their families stayed at the IMPI Guest House where they enjoyed excellent meals and accommodation, and were treated like royalty. The facilities were first-class, and many stayed up late to enjoy the live music and discussions about the day's flying. On Saturday evening at the IMPI Guest House, we enjoyed 5-star treatment, entering the dining room on a red carpet and welcomed by waitresses dressed as air hostesses. It was a real 'collar-and-tie' evening, but jeans and tackies were welcome. Owen had been watching and making notes during the day and each pilot and random supporters received appropriate prizes. The décor was amazing, with little airplanes everywhere. Modellers generally like to braai, but this was an evening of good food and 5-star treatment enjoyed by all. On Sunday many were back at the airfield to make use of the runway one last time. The gates were finally closed at 13:00.
In the photo above, Wynand Swart from Bloemfontein is getting final instructions from Boet Denysschen before take-off with his Dolphin Jet. Boet’s instructions were exact: “You never listen when I tell you what to do”.
A big thank you to everybody involved with this fly-in. We hope to see you all at Lime Acres next year.
Below left is the scratch-built P-40 Warhawk scale model by Gerhard van der Watt from Kimberley. At right is Jan van Soest from Klerksdorp working on his Boomerang jet before starting up and taking-off.
Pilots like Pierre Fouche from Bloemfontein, Ian Mandy from Kimberley and Chris from Welkom getting ready to fly
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 3
One of the small paper aeroplanes that were placed on the dinner tables, a very good idea from the IMPI Guest House.
Sound systems for RC planes
The 10 in the speaker model means 10cm diameter, and 13 means 13cm. The 13 cm gives dramatically better bass notes, which sounds great, but may not fit so easily. The R10S cost about R150. The FR13 is more, and the FRS10WP is about R650. This is a rugged waterproof speaker for fitting in buses and train stations. I use two of these in my Spitfire, and the sound is loud. Some of these speakers are available in South Africa from RS Components and other suppliers. You can buy cheap car radio speakers, but they have large magnets and are heavy, and less efficient. Perhaps if you can use a higher power amplifier of say 100watt they might be loud enough. Other speaker types are also possible, such as oval shapes which may suit a slim fuselage.
By Neil Allen Neil's 1/5 scale Spitfire Mark XII from a Dave Platt kit
Electric power for scale models solves the power issues excellently, except for the non-scale like sound they make when flying. Thomas Benedini of Germany has filled this need very effectively. He created a sound generator, that is linked to the throttle, and gives startup, shutdown, and all the sounds in between. Full details and prices are on his website. Just google “benedini sound”, and choose the English page. His systems are sold by HobbyKing, but I think his prices are a bit cheaper, and he can ship you a unit with whatever speakers you choose. The unit comes with your choice of a huge range of engine sounds, and he will change them for you at any time for nothing, or they can be downloaded for free, if you get his adapter cable. Brief sample sounds can be listened to on the website of his US distributor, Aerosound, which is also easily googled. A sound system has to have a weight of loudspeakers, and you have to choose how loud you want it to be, which means how heavy a weight you are prepared to carry. I reckon that a weight of perhaps 6% of total flying weight gives a good sound level. Small foamies are also quite practical for a sound system. Smaller planes fly closer to the pilot, so need much less sound power. I think even a sound system of a low weight is better than nothing. At least you can enjoy the startup and switchoff, and hear it a bit in the air. There are excellent articles on the Benedini system, if you go to their downloads page, and read the articles by John Ranson. You can also download the instruction manuals for the components. To make up a system you have to select the components you want, and put them together with soldered connections. There is always someone competent in a club that can help, or you can ask me for advice.
A speaker needs as large as possible a space behind it. The bottom of the fuselage is perfect, but you must make holes in the formers to form one big volume. If the speakers are in the bottom of the wing, you need holes in the wing ribs. These air boxes must be sealed off from the outside air, with items like wheel retract holes isolated with balsa “walls”. The speakers should face downward to be heard in flight, but this has the advantage that holes or grilles underneath are not noticeable when the plane is seen on the ground. Sound generator. The one you want is the TBS Mini. It weighs 6 grams. Amplifiers. I use two 40watt amps from Benedini, which run off my 12s (50 volt) power batteries. When I look at the catalogue now, I see these are not listed anymore. Also, he now recommends adding his inexpensive optoisolator if you are using your flight power batteries. He lists several amplifiers on his site. For bigger planes, the choices are: Single 40watt. Weight 8g. Speakers 8ohm, which can be two of 4ohm in series. Power is 3s to 6s. You can use half of a 12s motor battery pack as he explains. This amp runs cool. I think one or more of these would suit a large plane very well. Four X 40watt. Weight 40g. Speakers 4ohm. Power is 3s to 4s. This amp runs very hot, and needs cooling air. You could drive a mixture of different speakers off this one amp, but if you are flying with 10s or 12s batteries, you would need a separate battery to supply it. You can hear the sound system in Neil's Spitfire on YouTube. Just enter "spitfire r/c model neil allen" in the search bar. It is low quality, shot with a pocket camera, but adequate.
Loudspeakers are the heart of the system. I list here in ascending order of noisiness, some likely choices. I know nothing about very small systems though. The loudness is in dB, which is a log scale, and a bit confusing. Note though, that each time you double the volume, you add 3dB more. Benedini uses Visaton brand speakers, which also come from Germany. These are used worldwide, and the pricing and efficiency is good. Quantity used
Speaker model
Weight grams
1 2 1 2 2
R10S R10S FRS10WP FR13 FRS10WP
180 360 360 560 720
Max watts power total 13 26 30 60 60
Sound level dB
Impedance ohms
96 99 101 102 104
4/8 4/8 4/8 4 4/8
Notes. The little R10S is very light, and the manufacturer claims 20watt power. But everyone who buys them blows them up at this level! They can only take 13w maximum. There is a volume control that you adjust, or Benedini can set up the amp of your choice to suit your speakers. You can test the wattage fairly easily with a multimeter, or you can run them for a few minutes and feel the speaker temperature. Gently warm is okay, hot means not okay! Speakers are rated for continuous or music power, such as 20/30Watt. Use the lower figure only.
Speakers mounted in Spitfire fuselage. The two high-power Visaton speakers facing downwards. They are mounted in a trough, which allows cooling air to pass over the motor, speed control, and amplifiers, and exit out of the same grille as the speakers. I think if I did it again I would rather mount the speakers flush on the bottom of the wing, and let the cooling air exit further back along the fuselage – maybe even by the tail wheel.
Underside of Spitfire wing showing speaker grilles. The rear one is not used currently. The grille material is two layers of perforated stick-on vinyl from a signwriters shop, where it is used for adverts on taxi back windows.
Another scale aircraft fitted with a sound system. Leon Coetzee on the right with his Nieuport 28.
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 4
Langebaan visit
his transmitter to create flying surface deflections, amazed the modelers.The evening continued with speeches on - how the hobby grew and evolved from the early days - the evolvement of the different clubs that started from the original club W.P.M.A.C. to where we have progressed today - the products we used, their reliability, and how they grew - the isolation years - international experiences and friendships - safe flying and safety issues
by John Calefato
The presentation ended with lots of tasty snacks and coffee, all produced by the wives of the modelers. A big thank you to them all! The last hour or two we spent at Dave's bar where many tall and short stories were told, all well encouraged and promoted by our two 'seremoniemeesters' Dave and Anton.
John Calefato (left) and Hardy Hoffman with an array of historical model aircraft.
Hardy Hoffman and I were invited by the ArcelorMittal club at Langebaan to give a talk and presentation of the early days of flying in the Cape. They requested that we bring along some of the early models we flew, with the motors and radio control systems of that era. After picking up Hardy at his home with his antiques (??) we departed for Langebaan where we were to meet Anton Bothma, an old friend, member, and former chairman of TMFC. On arrival in Langebaan we went with Anton to the Driftwood Restaurant which has a beautiful view overlooking the lagoon. Anton entertained us to a tasty seafood meal. During the lunch, Anton briefed us on what our presentation should focus on. We then followed him to visit the ArcelorMittal Saldanha RC club, about 10 minutes' ride out of town. There we were introduced to Herman Wiehahn, their club chairman, who was hard at work on their new second runway. The club has a beautiful spacious field with two large tarred runways. They have a large modern clubhouse with full facilities and electricity. They also have a large undercover spectator area as well as braai facilities. Both Hardy and I were impressed with what we saw. The club has everything in place for hosting major events. Our next stop with Anton was at the yacht club of which he is a member. There we spent a relaxing afternoon where interesting past maritime history of the lagoon was revealed over a drink or two. Next we headed for the Masada Guest House B&B owned by Dave Allam, a prominent member of their club who offered us free accommodation for the night. On arrival we were pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome we received. Our two rooms had welcoming messages pinned on the entrance doors. Our rooms were spacious and clean with all facilities, and which we can highly recommend.
The next morning we were interrupted at breakfast by Anton who came to invite us to his home where his wife, Samara, had baked a carrot cake which they wanted us to share with them before leaving for home. So, after thanking Dave, his wife, father, and friendly staff for being such lovely hosts, we followed Anton to his home. Here we thoroughly enjoyed Samara's carrot cake and coffee to the extent that we gladly accepted second-helpings. Afterwards Anton showed us his well-built model room, models, and office from where he conducts his import/export fruit business. So ended a most enjoyable two days with our Langebaan friends and modellers. Hardy and I would like to thank Herman and his committee for the invitation, Dave Allam for the warm welcome and free accommodation, and Anton Bothma for being such a good PRO and 'chaperone'. For SAMAA members who would like to visit Langebaan and do some flying, please contact Dave Allam at Masada Guest House, 18 Loop Street, Long A c r e s , L a n g e b a a n 7 3 5 7 . Te l . 0 2 1 - 7 6 2 - 1 5 4 3 , e - m a i l dave@africandreamgroup.co.za Dave offers accommodation discount for SAMAA-members who are visiting and would like to do some flying. While there, you can also visit Dave's hangar and workshop where some of the finest large scale model aircraft are to be seen, a worthwhile experience.
BIGGER , BETTER SHOPPING EXPERIENCE!
We have expanded Al’s Hobbies, to provide you with more services, and more stock to choose from. Visit today! Spoil yourself with RC equipment and hobby goods. Planes, helicopters, cars, boats, composite gliders. Convenient location, parking, expert advice and service. New shipment of composite gliders arriving soon!
www.alshobbies.co.za The highly-recommended Masada Guest house. Look it up when you are in the area!
Our evening presentation area was the Masada Guest House reception hall, flanked by a new and cute bar. Hardy and I laid out our antiques (??). One by one, modellers from the local and outlying clubs arrived, approximately 30. We enjoyed meeting old modelling friends, the likes of Ivan, André de Beer and Otto Blanckenberg – one of Westcoast's most prominent modelers and promoter of our hobby, and thorough gentleman. Also a few more smiling faces whom we knew but whose names we can’t quite place. The presentation went off well with Hardy demonstrating his beautifully-built rubber models, including his old single channel model with original r/c and motor, all in working order. I demonstrated my old A2 glider which I flew in the late 50's and 60's with (DT) burning fuse de-thermaliser. Hardy's demonstration of his single channel model whereby buttons were pressed on
Check out our website, for best prices, latest stock, and on-line ordering and payment! Exit 136 Boksburg from N17 highway (Rondebult Rd R21). North for 2km, right into Lancaster. 600m to intersection with Hertzog & Waterson, Parkdene. GPS = S26 14 08 E028 15 11
Tel. 011 026-3313 Shop 4, Parkdene Shopping Centre, Lancaster Rd, Parkdene Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri = 09:00 - 18:00; Wed 12:30 - 18:00. Sat 08:00 to 13:00. Closed on Sundays and public holidays
info@alshobbies .co.za
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 5
2015 African 3D Heli Masters
by Nic van Rensburg
(Top) Panoramic view of the SMAA facilities. (Above) Posters/adverts for two of the African 3D Heli Masters events.
The African 3D Heli Masters event started off with a bang at the Stellenbosch Model Aircraft Academy facility on the 11th and 12th of April 2015, with pilots coming in from all over the country, including two top international pilots from UAE and Italy. Day one saw tons of action with top pilots such as previous SA number one Ludwig Fourie being punished hard for every mistake.
Arno Goosen accepting his first place trophy in the Sportsman class from Tareq Alsaadi.
The quality and level of the South African 3D competition has definitely been raised significantly over the years, from the set manoeuvres, to the judging, it definitely seems on par with top international levels of flying. Day two saw even more punishment, as top pilots continued trying not to make even the slightest mistake while being pushed to their limits. The bar for set manoeuvres was also set very high, with only one masters pilot, Stephan Murray, attempting the Table Mountain manoeuvre. The second day was Sebastiano Gabutti's turn to feel the heat of the international level of judging, failing to stick the landing on a massive autorotation he was equally punished, pushing him down into second place. In the end, consistency played a big role and William Cranmer managed to take first place in the masters' class. Ryno Ankiewicz took first place in the Advanced class. Tareq awarding him the trophy.
In advanced class, the up-and-coming young guns were also pulling off top level manoeuvres such as piro flips, inverted hurricanes and funnels, keeping the more experienced pilots on their toes.
Below is the winner of the Masters class and the Speed Challenge, William Cranmer.
The Sportsman's class saw a huge number of entries compared to previous events. Even this class saw a very high level of flying with set manoeuvres including: 3x Inverted Pirouette, 2x Consecutive Rolls in forward flight, and 3 Consecutive Inverted Travelling Pirouettes. The speed run saw performances pushed to the maximum, with William Cranmer taking the crown, clocking in at 202km/h average over two runs with SAB Goblin speed setting a new South African speed record. Alan Ball and the crew from flying robot were also on hand to demo the new sport of FPV racing. It was definitely interesting to watch these guys do their thing. Racing under and around obstacles while sitting on chairs, viewing through video goggles.
Abridged results African 3D Heli Masters. Stellenbosch Model Aircraft Academy Sportsman Pl. 1. 2. 3.
Name Arno Goosen Paul Demmer Carlo Steyn
Advanced 1. 2. 3.
Ryno Ankiewicz Wessel Venter Brad Grobler
Masters 1. 2. 3.
Willian Cranmer Sebastiano Gabutti Stephan Murray
Speed 1. 2. 3.
William Cranmer Peter Rossouw Sebastiano Gabutti
o see als w. w a/ http://w llenge.co.z a ch 3dheli sults african apetownre c
202.45 km/h 197.71km/h 189.89km/h
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 6
“Many hands make Goblin fly”.
The display tent showed a variety of equipment.
William Cranmer and Tareq helping Paul Demmer to prepare his Goblin for a competition flight.
Tareq Aalsadi has been to South Africa a few times.
Trophies for the various classes, sponsored by Goblin Hobbies.
Sebastiano Gabutti’s Goblin, and below right, a Goblin doing what it does best!
Tent showed professional organisation.
ENGINES WANTED
Two awards made by Paul Demmer, accepted by Tareq Aalsadi.
Old model aircraft engines; diesel, spark-ignition, or glow. Good prices. Contact Dave 076-494-1184 SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 7
The author demonstrated his basic theory, using the popular Goldberg Falcon design of its day. It was sold in three sizes: Senior Falcon, Falcon 56, and Junior Falcon. You will see on the graph, that all three sizes of the Falcon fall in the area inside the diagonal lines marked "Trainer". And all three planes fly the same - exactly as you would expect a trainer to be. These diagonal lines, which are just areas of high, medium, or low wing loading, are the heart of the graph. I have had several model aircraft which were in the "too heavy" area, and they required extremely high take-off and landing speeds. Some jets are here, and that is why they need long runways, and do not glide very well when the engine or turbine cuts.
An essential chart for RC modellers by Neil Allen
The author added power loading dashed lines, with the scale along the top, but said that these are only very approximate guides. For example, you can take a plane like a trainer with a .40 glow motor. If you power it with a .20 motor, it will take off and climb slowly, but still flies like a trainer, landing nice and slowly. You can power it with a .90, and it will have dramatic speed, but it will still land like a trainer. The graph is very easy to extend for bigger sizes. If you measure with a ruler the distance from 20 ounces to 40 ounces, it is the same as 2 pounds to 4 pounds. That same measurement will take you from say 22 pounds to 44 pounds. Wing area works similarly. Interestingly, if you extend the graph right up to a full size plane, it still works!
Knowing the weight and wing area of a model aircraft gives you its wing loading, which you will need to know how it will fly. Many of us, and people in the US market, use the older imperial units, but obviously you can convert these to metric if you wish. So we have guidelines like "20 ounces per square foot flies well". Unfortunately, these guides only work for comparing aircraft of about the same size. This is because if you take a design, say an Ugly Stik, and double the wingspan (2 times), then the wing area is squared (4 times), but the weight it can carry is cubed (8 times). This might seem illogical, but if you double the chord (width) of a wing, the air flowing over the top is deflected to double the height above the wing surface. Thus, doubling the wing chord gives four times the lift. This chart below was printed in RC Modeler magazine many years ago, and I find it almost essential for my modelling use. With it, I am able to predict how any size model aircraft will fly.
In its day, the series of Falcon aircraft was one of the most popular trainers
Relationship of Wing Area, Weight, and Power for average RC model aircraft COX BABE-BEE .049 & TEE-DEE .020 COX TEE-DEE .010
1000
.02
COX MEDALLION & BLACK WIDOW .049 COX TEE-DEE .049
COX PEE-WEE .020
.03
MUFFLER-EQUIPPED
.04
.06
.08
.09
.12
.15 .19 .23
.16
.24
.30
.32
.40
.48
.64
.60
.96
.80
1.28
AVERAGE ENGINE SIZE ENGINE HP
SNR FALCON 800
1.92
DIRTY BIRDI 600
ER
ID
D RE
WING AREA (SQUARE INCHES)
500
FALCON 56
E
W
PO
GL
NEW ERA III
ER
400
N AI
TR
T
OR
N
ER
300
&
SP
TT PA
Y AV
HE
JNR FALCON
ACE PACER
Y AV
O TO
200
HE
150
100 10
15
20
30
40 50 WEIGHT (OUNCES)
60
80
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 8
100
150
200
I can further confirm that, due to generous sponsorships, we managed to make this competition financially viable, and I would like to thank Mr Dean Grobbelaar from Aerial Concepts for his very generous donation. I also wish to thank our Special Interest Group chairman, Mr Herman Weber, for his efforts and resolving issues at the Nationals in a very professional and effective manner. I also extend my most sincere gratitude to Bob and Marietjie Skinner who carried most of the responsibility for arranging the Nationals. I have never seen any competition arranged with so much attention to detail. As it is the first such competition for most of the Special Interest Groups, it took lots of negotiation to try and keep everybody satisfied. Thank you very much Bob and Marietjie, most of the success of this competition is due to your hard work.
Chairman’s Report to the AGM Marthinus Potgieter The committee that is currently serving, has entered the second year of their term and is currently planning a nomination and election process for a new committee that will start serving next year, beginning June.
There are reports, photographs, and results published in Issue 2 of 2015 of the SAMAA News, from all the participating Special Interest Groups, and the organisers.
On 14 April 2015, I received the resignation of one of our management committee members, Mr Mike Brews. Unfortunately Mike's work responsibilities changed and he had no other option than to resign and focus on his career. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mike for his valuable contribution and I hope that he will see his way clear to making himself available in time to come to serve on the SAMAA management committee. The financial year end of the SAMAA was moved to 31 December every year as voted and decided on at the last AGM in 2014. It was not the easiest task to accomplish as there was not much time after the AGM to put all the processes in place and also not the best cooperation from our auditors. Thank you to Juanita and George who championed this process. Obviously our Audited Financial Statements will reflect only the figures from March to December 2014, and should be evaluated in that context. I can also report that the financial status of our organisation is very healthy even in these difficult economic times. This has put the organisation in a position to market and promote itself. There has been a delay in launching the new SAMAA website and I must assure you that it is not due to a lack of trying. Bob and I have been busy loading information onto the new website but we are waiting for the programmer to add a hierarchy system in the information section. At the last SAMAA Management meeting it was decided that despite this, we will launch the site in the next two months and alter the information page once the hierarchy has been added. The committee undertook to update the SAMAA Manual of Procedures last year but waited for the request of “Letters of Procedure” from ATNS before we proceeded. We have still not received them and a decision was made to proceed with the update and add the “Letters of Procedure” when they become available. Interaction with the Aero Club of South Africa and the Recreational Aviation Administration of SA takes place on a regular basis. Since the last AGM we have requested feedback from members on whether or not their contact details should be given to the Aero Club of South Africa so they can receive information and news. We received no feedback whatsoever from members and we might have to revisit this issue. As many members might be aware, the signing into Law of Part 101 of the Civil Aviation Act dealing with the Commercial Operation of Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems, or more commonly known as Drones, took place. The Act makes it very clear that it has no bearing on recreational and model aircraft activities that are regulated under Part 94 of the act. The SAMAA Management Committee also approved an interim Multi-rotor Proficiency document on 23 June 2015 that will enable members to be tested and receive one or more of three different multi-rotor proficiencies, and it also makes provision for the appointment of multi-rotor instructors. I would like to thank Gary McDonough who contributed significantly to the efforts of the Model Helicopters South Africa Special Interest Group to have this document ready for publication before 1 July. During April this year our CIAM representative, Mr Johan Ehlers, attended the annual CIAM (Commission for International Aeromodelling) Plenary Meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland. He attended several of the meetings hosted on specific request from our Special Interest Groups. I would like to thank Johan for his endeavours, as I am aware that it is a tiring journey and definitely not a holiday. His report is available to those interested. Over the long weekend of 16 June 2015, the SAMAA hosted for the first time in fourteen years, a Combined Power Nationals, at the PC Pelser Airport in Klerksdorp. I was fortunate to attend some of the days and received lots of positive feedback from contestants, judges, officials, and spectators. I can report that it was a massive success with only a few very minor details that need to be changed in the future. We hope to host the 2016 Combined Power Nationals on the same weekend next year, but will have to confirm the venue.
In the weeks to come, we will have five teams leaving for overseas to compete in separate world championships. F3A RC Aerobatics. Switzerland F3C Helicopter Aerobatics. Austria F3K Gliders Hand Launch Croatia (Senior and Junior teams). F3B Gliders Multi-Task. The Netherlands I wish all our members a safe journey and hope that they will be successful in their respective disciplines. I would like to mention Roston Dugmore especially, as he will be defending his F3A Junior World Champion title and wish him all of the best. I believe it is also appropriate to congratulate Ivan Olivier on his invitation to judge at the F3A World Championship in Switzerland in August this year. This is a huge honour, a compliment to the SAMAA and I believe the result of many years of hard work and dedication. Well done, Ivan. (Unfortunately Ivan has had to withdraw. He runs his own business and he has just landed a contract which is financially very rewarding - Ed.) Since the SAMAA has stopped publishing a printed newsletter, the SMC recently discussed the possibility of publishing a printed SAMAA Year Book. This will be in the format of a “glossy” coffee table book covering all aspects of our sport. More information on cost needs to be obtained to make an informed decision that will fit in with our budget. Over the last couple of months I have sensed a very positive attitude from most members I have interacted with. I was privileged to visit two clubs in the Eastern Cape last year December, and was pleasantly surprised by the professionalism in all aspects of club management that I came across. Also, thank you to these clubs for their warm welcome and hospitality. I have reported in the SAMAA news about these visits. It goes without saying that the majority of the SAMAA is made up of what are referred to as “Sunday Flyers” who only participate in aeromodelling for recreational non-competitive purposes. I would like to thank all these members for their loyalty and positive contribution that most make to our wonderful organisation. The SAMAA Management Committee is currently investigating the possibility of appointing an assistant to Mr Bob Skinner, our General Manager, who will relieve him of the day-to-day administration of the SAMAA and enable him to interact more with our clubs and regular members. One of my concerns, is that just over 55% of our total membership carries proficiency. I would like to encourage all our members to obtain a proficiency rating in their field of activity, as it can only be to your own benefit and make you a safer pilot. If any member experiences any difficulty in arranging such testing, please contact the SAMAA office and we can assist in arranging instructors or judges to perform these tests. Some clubs have in the past hosted proficiency days where three or four clubs join together once a year and perform all the tests required. I would like to thank all my fellow Management Committee members for their efforts and dedication. We do not always agree on all matters, but I believe that through the process of debate and negotiation, in most cases we reach the best solution for our organisation. I look forward to the next twelve months of my term, and hope that we will reach the targets that we have set. Thank you to all the members of the SAMAA who have made the effort to attend this AGM – it is highly appreciated. This is the forum to debate issues in a positive and proactive manner, and I appreciate your interest, attendance and support. Last, but not least, thank you very much to Allen Fraser of Frasers Radio Control Models, and Juanita Smith of Al’s Hobbies for the sponsorship of the snacks and drinks served at this AGM. Your contribution is highly appreciated.
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 9
From the office
for members of the S AM A A Management Committee
Bob Skinner This GM report was delivered at the 2015 Annual General Meeting of the SAMAA, on Thursday 25th June 2015. It briefly covers the activities of the S A M A A o ff i c e a n d t h e g e n e r a l manager, from October 2014 to June 2015, mainly due to the change in the SAMAA financial year end (to endDecember 2014). As always, it was a very busy period in your office, with most model aviation issues being handled on a regular basis: memberships, events, proficiencies, clubs, insurance, FAI, airspace, newsletter, Aero Club/RAASA/CAA, SIGs, and I have to once more include our much-loved post office. There have been numerous queries from members who have not received their membership cards, and unfortunately this is totally beyond our control…and beyond the control of the government! Membership renewals and new memberships are processed quickly and efficiently. Our membership count is in the region of 3 800. Information is critical to good communication, and members are urged to log-on to the membership programme to update their information.
www.samaa.co.za/ (Edit own details) Proficiency-testing appears to be gaining momentum, and all clubs are encouraged to get actively involved in improving the skill level of all model aircraft pilots. Many clubs and groups have over the reporting period, arranged events like fly-ins, airshows, and competitions. Applications for permits are managed inhouse, and in conjunction with RAASA, where shared use of airspace is involved for Special Air Events. The SAMAA arranged a very successful Combined Power Nationals a few weeks ago. My personal thanks to Marthinus Potgieter, who continues to support the SAMAA with his own resources and logistics. Thanks also to Herman Weber who was the event director, and managed to herd the cats most efficiently! Johan Ehlers continues to efficiently look after our CIAM/FAI matters, and the SAMAA management team has spent many hours on airspace issues. We have an obligation to members, to ensure that our airspace is protected and managed, and that members may continue to fly safely at our SAMAAregistered clubs. The production of SAMAA News landed on my desk, but this is only a temporary measure, until a permanent editor is identified and appointed. Our relationship with the Aero Club and RAASA continues on a good footing, and minor issues are handled expediently. The SAMAA was involved in the Aero Club Airweek, but the concept needs some attention, since it currently focuses only on current Aero Club members. Many of the SAMAAs Special Interest Groups have seen a drop in activity, and the concept of a combined Nats is destined to stay for the foreseeable future. The SAMAA historic preservation project is gaining momentum, and some of the items are on display here tonight. Members are encouraged to donate historically significant articles to the SAMAA, so that we may preserve the history of our proud Association. This could be model aircraft, magazines, newsletters, photographs, CDs, or other items of historical significance. The Association was constituted in 1936, but there are huge gaps where historical facts are simply not available to us.
It is almost time for the election of members to the next SAMAA Management Committee. This election process will start in the next few weeks, and the committee is currently investigating means of electronic voting, since the post office has proven to be a totally unreliable method of communication. Watch your SAMAA News for the announcement, and the first step, that of nomination for five elected committee positions. The nomination and voting procedure in the current system calls for postal votes. Due to the problems experienced at the SA Post Office, it has been requested that the postal votes are replaced with an e-mail vote. This procedure is rather long-winded so we have written this summary of how the procedure will work. E-MAIL VOTING PROCEDURE. 1. 2. 3. 4.
Nominations. Voting. Counting and declaration of results. Ratification.
1. Nominations Nominations will be called for in the SAMAA News, and a form will be available requesting names of nominees. Nominees will be required to sign acceptance of the proposal, and must be eligible for the position. The nomination form will contain the return e-mail address and will be that of the SAMAA General Manager, or the fax number of the SAMAA office. Return on or before the published date. 2. Voting When the nomination forms are returned and vetted, these names will be published in a SAMAA newsletter along with their CV's, requesting every SAMAA member to vote for the nominated members as listed. You may vote for up to five members as per the published form and return this via e-mail to the e-mail address or fax number of the SAMAA auditors as indicated on the form. NB. DO NOT RETURN TO SAMAA! 3. Counting The auditors will verify the votes and ensure the members are current and in good standing. They will supply the election co-ordinator, to be nominated by the SMC, of the vote count. 4. Ratification The results of the vote count will be announced at the next AGM, and along with any floor votes, will decide on the next SMC committee members. There we have it – sweet and simple – but it will only work and succeed if you, the member, do your job properly by voting, voting timeously, return the forms to the correct e-mail address or fax number, and filling in the forms correctly. The SAMAA is for your benefit, works for you, for your hobby and your enjoyment; so protect, participate, and foster it. THE FUTURE – SAMAA.
In closing, please get involved in your own way, and within your club, to promote the SAMAA, and its activities. We hope to grow the Association to become even stronger. The management committee members are enthusiastic and committed, and we are always ready to serve the membership, but they cannot possible cover all the bases. If you have a problem, or know of someone else that has a problem, pick up the phone and call me, or any of the SAMAA management committee members, and let's find a solution, together. This is our Association, and we ought to be proud of it, and what we have achieved. Talented managers often use the phrase: “Good enough never is”. Let's all aspire to this mantra. During the 2015 Annual General Meeting of the SAMAA, several of the historical items destined for the museum, were exhibited. Can the older members identify the Robbie Rowe Wakefield model?
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 10
The South African Model Aircraft Association Nomination of members for the Management Committee The SAMAA herewith calls for the nominations from/of Association members, to serve on the SAMAA Management Committee during the term of office 2016 and 2017. In terms of Clauses 9 and 10 of the Constitution, and the election process approved by the auditors, nominations are called for five (5) management committee members. To be valid, each nomination form must be completed, signed, and returned as per the following process:
a. b. c. d.
The name, SAMAA membership number, address, and signature of the PROPOSER The name, SAMAA membership number, address, and signature of acceptance/consent of the NOMINEE The name, SAMAA membership number, address, and signature of a SECONDER The completed nomination forms must be sent to: “Nominations for management committee�, PO Box 7116, Bonaero Park 1622 or Faxed to 086-607-8733 (fax to e-mail) or E-mailed to samaa-admin@mweb.co.za or Hand-delivered to the SAMAA General Manager, office 24, Building R4, Denel Technical Academy, 131 Atlas Road, Bonaero Park. The completed nomination forms must arrive on, or before 30 October 2015.
e.
NOMINATION FORM I,
the PROPOSER, being a member of the SAMAA in good standing, hereby nominate (name of the nominee)
Signed
to stand for the SAMAA Management Committee.
SAMAA number
Address
I, the NOMINEE, being a member of the SAMAA in good standing, do hereby agree, if elected, to serve on the SAMAA Management Committee. Signed
SAMAA number
Address
I, this proposal.
the SECONDANT, being a member of the SAMAA in good standing, hereby second
Signed
SAMAA number
Address
Nominees must submit an introduction of themselves, which must be no longer than 100 words for publication in the SAMAA News. This is to introduce yourself to the members who will be voting for the candidates. This introduction may be edited if longer than the required 100 words, to fit into the available space of the SAMAA News. 1. A brief CV 2. An election manifest/promise 3. Reasons why he should be elected SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 11
2015 Art Adamisin Cup
Since last year we have seen quite a few new faces that are interested in control-line and we actually had a possible seven entries in novice stunt. Unfortunately things happened that prevented many from participating. I am however happy to report that after this competition, the positive vibes have already spread rapidly, and I believe that the Nats in Klerksdorp will have a good novice entry. Last year in October we were invited to go and fly in Ventersdorp at the farm of Theuns Hattingh, and even though we were totally blown out by horrendous wind, we had a wonderful visit and were able to share a lot of our knowledge and experience with the Ventersdorp guys. Theuns entered novice stunt but unfortunately broke his model in Friday's practice session due to strong wind. It seems like the wind follows Theuns! That was a pity because it would have been good to see Theuns flying in the event on Saturday. In any event it was good to have Theuns, his family and friends with us. Baie dankie Theuns dat julle ons besoek het!
by Keith Renecle The windy conditions did not deter this enthusiastic group of control line fliers at the Barnstormers.
The 2015 AA Cup took place once again at Barnstormers on the 18th and 19th of April, and all I have to say up front is that control-line is alive and well! What a successful week-end we had with eight entries in Expert stunt and two in Novice stunt. The weather threatened to be really bad with cold and strong wind but on Saturday the wind was flyable for three rounds. It was however, hard work for the pilots because the wind blew over the clubhouse creating lots of turbulence on the tar circle to make life for the pilots rather challenging.
Most of our entries came from Gauteng, but we also had two entries from the Eastern Cape. Colin Paine came up here from Knysna with his take-apart model with a fuselage and tail feathers borrowed from the venerable R/C Ugly Stik. It flew quite well down at sea level but unfortunately was a little heavy for our thin air. I had managed to build a basic stunt trainer for a .40 size electric system and Colin used that to fly in the competition. I am notorious for arriving at competitions with new models with wet paint, but this time I beat
The novice event was flown on our grass circle and it is slightly out of the turbulence so it is a better deal for the novice guys. The grass field is also a little softer in the case of any prangs! The AA Cup is named in honour of Arthur Adamisin, or “Big Art�, a renowned C/L stunt personality and international judge from the USA who came out to South Africa in 1997 to help us improve our stunt flying and also judging standards. This was a giant leap forward for us at the time, so we decided to name one of our team trial events for choosing the team to world championships after him. This was planned to be held later in the year but C/L was invited to join in the fun at the combined power Nats in June in Klerksdorp, so we moved the event forward to April and also added a novice stunt category.
Ventersdorp visitors relaxing at the AA Cup, while Peter Locke prepares his stunter for a flight.
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 12
the system...there was no paint! That is the neat thing about electric power, the wood does not need any paint because there is zero goo from the engine!
is necessary for flying this very difficult stunt pattern. I have watched his development since he started and Theo has taken a giant leap forward in the last few months. He has also done a lot of ground work on building and understanding engines, and that is just so good to see. For the long term future of aeromodelling we really need “modellers” in the true sense of the word. Ready to fly and ARF models are all fine and well, but the hobby/sport really needs more true modellers to survive. We are very proud of what Theo has achieved! Justin flew the beginner pattern in the novice event, and this allows the pilot to choose which maneuvers they want to perform. They can also choose very basic maneuvers like two standard wing-overs instead of the reverse wingover for example. It is a good system and allows a pilot with very basic skills to enter competitions and have some fun, so hopefully we will see many more entries in this event soon.
Colin Paine’s hybrid, with Ugly Stik tailfeathers.
Peter Locke who is a regular entry from Grahamstown, came up here with another stunning model in his 40-Watt series. The 40-Watt 3 really topped the previous models from Peter who has the vast building experience and ability to produce such lightweight and pretty models. The furthest travelled visitor this year was Charlie Johnson from San Diego in the USA. Charlie is a very experienced C/L guy that helped us a great deal through the years especially in combat. In past years he also brought us many good C/L engines and other hard to get stuff, so we really appreciated seeing Charlie again at this event. We had two judges Bob Skinner and John Withers arranged for the weekend, but unfortunately John got the dreaded lurgy and could not make it. I know that John always enjoys judging C/L so it was sad for us not to have him with us. We did however manage well in the capable hands of Judge Skinner, so thanks very much to Bob for sitting out there in the chilly wind while we were all playing with our toys! The flying was intense and after round one, junior world F3A R/C pattern champion Roston Dugmore was leading the scores, with myself 2nd and young Warren Smith in 3rd place. These kids just have no fear even in these rough, bumpy conditions. With a level flight height of 1.5 metres above the tar surface, this makes for precision flying ability and good nerves. Warren is also a very good R/C pilot, and it just shows that it does not matter whether it is a box with sticks on it, or a handle with two lines...a good pilot is a good pilot! I had to work really hard to beat these two kids by a small margin, so well done to Rostie and Warren. We are extremely proud of what they achieved in such difficult conditions. Percy Attfield flew his Centurion XL into fourth place, so well done to Percy. His big Centurion which is based on the Paul Walker Impact design, had no shortage of power with his big MVVS electric motor running on a 5-cell LiPo battery pack. Peter Locke placed 5th with his 40-Watt 3 model, and Colin Paine followed closely behind in 6th place. Len Smith in 7th place was flying a version of the 40-Watt 2 built by his dad Eric, and he bought Peter Locke's 40Watt 2, so Len will now have a well sorted out model to fly in the future. One of our top regular fliers, Nic van der Westhuizen, flew a Nobler with a Fox .35 in it into 8th place. This did not behave that well, and unfortunately, it pranged in the bad conditions on Sunday. That is never a thing that you want to see happening, so tough luck to Nic, and we look forward to seeing your Kestrel soon with the Super Tigre .46 in it. We flew three good rounds on Saturday, and Sunday morning looked promising for the final two rounds. After the first round however the wind came up with gusts over the max 9 metres per second or around 33 km/h; we decided to call it a day. The results are the best three rounds out of four. In the novice stunt event, the entries were Theo Kleynhans, and Justin Lees. Justin is another very good R/C pilot and enjoys a bit of C/L with Rostie now and then, so thanks to Justin for joining in the fun. Theo has been working very hard for the last few years on his building and flying ability, and as the results show, his hard work is now paying off. He has learnt to fly these models well and develop that special feeling for the manoeuvre shapes that
Rostie Dugmore doing what he does best, with support from Justin Lees.
It was interesting to see that this year, seven of the eight expert models were electric-powered and there were zero problems during the week-end. I personally still enjoy using engines, but in a competition it is hard to beat the reliability and predictable motor run of e-power. A good solid engine run is about 80% of what contributes to a good stunt flight, and once you have the understanding of e-power, it is hard to beat. In conclusion, a big thank you to all that helped to make this competition a success. As always, thanks to Percy Attfield for much of the background work and the final speech and prize giving. To Nic van der Westhuizen for his help and support in general and also for the safety tests each day. To Theo Kleynhans for his help and support each week-end and during the competition. In fact all of the guys present offered help whenever there was something to do, and that makes these events very special. One more special thank you goes to my biggest supporter, my wife Bokkie who helped with many things leading up to the event and then for her work in organizing and preparing food for the Saturday evening braai and also for doing most of the tabulating on both days. Everyone really appreciates what you do for C/L! Now this was a good warm-up for the coming Nats in June, so let's make the Nats a great event. We look forward to seeing many more entries there!
Keith Renecle accepting the AA Cup trophy from Percy Attfield and Marietjie Skinner.
Ever so seriaaaas! Bob Skinner assessing an aerobatic flight.
Results 2015 Art Adamisin Cup for control line aerobatics. Barnstormers. Pl.
Name
Rd 1
Rd 4
Total
Theo Kleynhans Justin Lees
300.0 92.0
Rd 2 Novice Stunt 371.0 140.0
Rd 3
1. 2.
354.5 106.0
328.0 127.5
1053.00 373.50
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Keith Renecle Roston Dugmore Warren Smith Percy Attfield Peter Locke Colin Paine Len Smith
850.0 864.0 821.0 776.5 746.5 650.0 715.5
Expert Stunt 918.0 865.0 837.5 786.0 781.0 752.0 773.0
924.5 912.0 898.5 771.0 749.5 767.5 598.0
925.0 911.0 898.0 723.0 725.0 746.0 765.5
2767.50 2688.00 2634.00 2333.50 2277.00 2265.50 2254.00
Theo Kleynhans receiving the first-place trophy in Novice Stunt.
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 13
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 14
Bulties
2015
by Boet Denysschen Photos by Stan Fincham Late afternoon rest for these aeries, after a busy day’s flying.
The 2015 Bultfontein Fly-in took place from the 2nd to 5th July at the municipal Airport in Bultfontein. We travelled down on Wednesday, arrived at the field around 14:00 and were met by a group of pilots from Pretoria. The weather was awesome, with a slight south-westerly wind, but temperatures around 24 degrees.
A special thanks to all pilots attending, and most important of all a special thanks to our sponsors of the event. AMT Marius Lensing Aerial Concepts Denny's Electrical Sanjay Kana Jets-R-Us Johan Powell Tobie Kock TopFlyte Hobbies Pierre Fouche Mr Anonymous George vd Burg
The afternoon was used for setting out the pit area, safety barriers as well as the starting area. Two large shade nets were secured on the ground to serve as start up area. This just helps to contain the dry grass blowing around during start up. Two hangars were made available at night for storage of aircraft. A group of pilots from Welkom and Bloem decided to camp at the field in a caravan and tents. The clubhouse facilities have electricity, toilets, as well as hot water showers. Around 50 percent of the pre-registered pilots arrived on Thursday and the balance on Friday. A total of 49 pilots pre-entered and another seven pilots arrived to fly over the weekend. Only three of the pre-registered pilots did not arrive for the event.
Jacques Alberts and Wesley Denysschen.
Leo van Niel relaxing.
Junita and Chris Venter (Welkom).
A count of aircraft was done around 12:00 on Saturday, with 120 aircraft present. Pilots who travelled the furthest were the guys from Upington, with two pilots using their full-size planes to fly in to Bulties. The runway at Bultfontein runs north/south with the prevailing take-off direction from left to right. The sun causes a slight discomfort in the afternoon as it sets directly in front of you, although this does not stop pilots from flying... you just adjust the height of your flight path. All types of aircraft were flown, ranging from foamies, large scale, jets, and some helis. Only two aircraft were damaged throughout the weekend. On Saturday we had a good turnout of public coming to watch what was happening and enjoying a day out in the sun with good food catered by the local school on Friday and Saturday. They make the most awesome breakfast, to die for. Dieter Lettau flying his MB339 and Mustang, and Corrie Coetzee flying an Aviation design Scorpion and Corsair thrilled the crowds with their formation flying over the weekend. Saturday evening all pilots, wives, girlfriends, and helpers got together in the Bultfontein Hotel for a sit-down supper where the most awesome steaks were served, they were like butter in your mouth. So, never under estimate the local hotels. This event was also used for handing out of a few prizes to a few lucky pilots. A cap, beanie, branded beer glass, a frequency peg, and dinner were given to all pilots as part of their entry.
ViperJet of Theo Potgieter on touch-down.
Close up of the cockpit detail of Theo Potgieter’s Hawk.
Isn’t it great to have your home comforts/building board/workshop right on the flying field? This fullyfitted trailer is almost a necessity if you are required to cart the F-5 E Tiger around.
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 15
Avanti XXL belongs to Alex Kuys.
Antic Bipe doing a barnstorming run down the Bultfontein runway. Flown by Vic Pretorius.
ZU-JET of Tobie Kock making best use of the Bultfontein runway.
Big Decathlon thrilled spectators with aerobatics and smoke. Flown by Jacques Alberts.
A Boet Denysschen Nog-A-Roo getting checked out before take-off.
Wing bags & Tx cases Protective wing bags made for all types of wings. Made from waterproof canvas material, with zip, carry handle, wing spar pockets, and pocket for inter-plane struts if for bi-plane.
Nicely-decorated Eurosport by Boet Denysschen.
Chengdu J-10A by Tobie Kock.
BAE Hawk, flown by Theo Potgieter.
Protective waterproof Tx carry case to protect your aluminium transmitter case.
Contact Paula on 082-456-2420 or dennys@ballmail.co.za Dieter Lettau’s Aermacchi MB339 does a dirty fly-by.
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 16
F3C Model Helicopter competition flying in perspective.
to the level where our pilots get into the fly-offs or into the top positions in the F3C W/C events. This possibly is the same for most of the other model flying disciplines in our country. The only way our pilots can work their way up the ladder is to get out of the rut where we fly in isolation, and where we are far removed from the conditions at which the W/C events take place. Somehow we need to either simulate the conditions, or find sites where the conditions are similar for our flying activities – typically we will have to fly more competitions at low altitude etc. This also means that the competing pilots need to do more extensive testing and flying at these conditions. Possibly our pilots need to participate in more international competitions to break the isolation.
by Johan Sieling
If we do not create a more professional and sponsored environment for our pilots we will never get there, because of the costs and time needed to get properly prepared to be really competitive in the international W/C events – we are fighting a lost battle if we do not make the necessary efforts to make the changes required.
Hiroki Ito of Japan regained his world championship title in 2015, with some superb flying.
This report on the results of the past FAI-F3C Model Helicopter World Championships is primarily aimed at giving a perspective on the results achieved by the South African pilots that participated in this years' F3C World Championship event in Austria. The competition took place from 02 July 2015 to 12 July 2015 in a small village Klopeinersee in Austria. The competition organisation was excellent, and due to the low number of entries, only one flight-line was utilised this time round. This meant that all the rounds were flown in front of one set of five judges on the exact same flight line. The weather conditions were good but then also quite harsh at the same time. The day-time temperatures were well into the 30deg.C range and the humidity was also quite high, sitting at around 60% and higher most of the time. Then, all of this was at an elevation of around 400 metres above sea level. This was also the first F3C W/C where the wind conditions were very favourable most of the time, and the wind therefore did not have an effect on the results throughout the competition. The changes from the fly-bar to the fly-bar-less three-axis gyro systems at this W/C basically made the competition more tight and close, which can be seen in the overall results compared to the previous events.
Could a South African hold this F3C trophy and have an FAI gold medal around his neck? Johan Sieling thinks we need a more professional approach to our activities, in all competitive disciplines. Everyone who has ever represented South Africa, will know how important it is to have the finances to be able to prepare yourself, to have the right equipment, to have the experience, and to have had the exposure. Of course you must have the talent, and more importantly, the desire to succeed. Visit
www.fai-heli-worlds2015.at/
The competition was won by Hiroki Ito of Japan with a raw score of 86.61% for the four preliminary rounds, and a final score of 85.36% after the three fly-off rounds. In second place was the former world champion Ennio Graber with a raw score of 82.83% for the four preliminary rounds, and a final score of 82.83% after the three fly-off rounds. This proves how competitive and close the final scores really were this year. Then, our best pilot Arney Sieling was placed 22nd overall with a final raw score of 72% after the four preliminary rounds which is 84.1% of the score obtained by the winning pilot. Our second pilot, Bryan Currie was placed 40th overall with a final raw score of 64.72% after the four preliminary rounds, which is 74.75% of the score obtained by the winning pilot. Only the top 15 pilots go through to the final fly-off rounds. The achievements of both our pilots were good and typically as expected. They achieved very similar scores at the W/C to those they get in the local flying competitions which thus proves that the standard of our local competitions and judging is on par with that of the international W/C competition. The question that one now asks is what do our pilots have to do to reach the fly-offs? Well, to put it into other words, is why didn't our pilots get through to the fly-off rounds? To answer this question one has to take into account the differences between the preparations of our pilots, versus that of the top pilots that do get into the fly-offs. Firstly, our pilots live and fly in their own little world where they do all their flying at altitudes far above 400 metres (typically at around 1600m) and they have very little exposure to the international flying conditions and environment. The European pilots have regular competitions where they fly against most of the top pilots, in front of the same judges that are used at the W/C events – lots of exposure to the real conditions and competition environment. Then one also has to take into account that our pilots are basically amateurs and have very little sponsorship backing. Typically, at least the top ten pilots at the W/C events are basically professional pilots which are heavily sponsored by the various manufacturers. Basically, we are very naïve in our thinking if we expect our pilots to perform at a level where they could reach the fly-offs or possibly get a top placing in the overall results – if we do not change our approach to the model flying sport, we will never make it! Basically, both the pilots and the controlling bodies will have to wake up if they ever expect the results of our participants to improve SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 17
to view the full scores of the F3C/F3N World Championships.
Tel + 011-545-1000. Fax 011-545-1465. e-mail mail@caa.co.za
Members may also wish to visit John Gore’s site on pertinent to RPAS operations.
www.caa.co.za
www.safedrone.co.za. It contains valuable information, and answers many questions that are
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 18
The S AM A A Activity Calendar Event
Contact
Telephone
Aug
30 30
Gauteng TBA Umbila Radio Fl
F5J Electric Comp Gauteng Monthly
Ivan Williams Matthys Botha
083-263-7889 073-895-9909
September 2015
Date
5 12-13 12 13 13 13 19-20 20 23-27 24-27 27
Rand MAC Boshoek Fly-in Barnstormers Warbirds Helderberg RF Gauteng TBA Barnstormers Warthog Radio Fl Oudtshoorn Witsieshoek Howick MFC
Pylon Racing Boshoek, Rustenburg SA Masters Control Line Barnstormers W Cape Aerobatic Monthly Highveld Thermal League 3 Gauteng Aerobatic Champs Series Scale Round 3 Scale 2015 Slope Fly-In KZN Aerobatic Monthly
Arrie Schoeman Sakkie vd Bank Keith Renecle Heinie Keyser Stuart Nix Herman Weber Matthys Botha Koos Pretorius Morn茅 Nortier Herman Weber John Dorse
082-789-9500 082-929-9314 083-415-1409 082-210-4389 082-855-4920 082-453-8551 073-895-9909 082-928-0368 082-890-6601 082-453-8551 082-824-8589
3 4 11 17-18 18 18 24-26 25 25 29-31 31
Rosslyn AM Gauteng TBA Boland MAC TBA Gauteng TBA Helderberg RF Jan Kempdorp JOMAC Tygerberg MFC NASA, Springbok Stellenbosch
Club Aerobatics F3J Team Trial Scale Day SA Aerobatic Masters F3K HLG League Fly & Braai Greg Casson Memorial Vintage Fly-In No. 301 Golden Oldies Great NASAFI Fly-in Glider Day
V Zyl Koegelenberg 083-659-4381 Herman Weber 082-453-8551 Werner Mayer 084-513-1375 Clinton Carter-Brown 083-630-2636 Herman Weber 082-453-8551 Michael Basson 072-266-7199 Boet Denysschen 082-449-4623 Colin Matthysen 082-697-5019 Aubrey Smith 061-451-0245 v Zyl Koegelenberg 083-659-4381 Nic van Rensburg 082-700-1856
1 7 7-8 8 15 22 28 28-29
Nationwide Gauteng TBA Barnstormers Welkom MAC Kingsburgh MAC Tygerberg MFC Rand Model AC Rand Model AC Hermanus
Gliding Postals F5J Electric Comp Club Aerobatics 2015 Fun Fly Masters KZN Aerobatic Monthly Heli Day Vintage Fly-In No. 302 Pylon Racing AFC Slope Fly-in
Herman Weber Ivan Williams V Zyl Koegelenberg Anton van Wyk Neil Allen Aubrey Smith Colin Matthysen Arrie Schoeman Andrew Basson
082-453-8551 083-263-7889 083-659-4381 082-554-2390 073-231-4141 061-451-0245 082-697-5019 082-789-9500 082-901-9259
6 6 12-13 16 20 24 Jan
Gauteng TBA Tygerberg MFC Gauteng TBA Peninsula RF Barnstormers Benoni Radio Fl
Highveld Thermal League 4 Scale Day Final F3K League (Sleepover) Birthday Bash Vintage Fly-In No. 303 Vintage Fly-in No. 304
Herman Weber Aubrey Smith Herman Weber Francois Viljoen Colin Matthysen Colin Matthysen
082-453-8551 061-451-0245 082-453-8551 082-955-0458 082-697-5019 082-697-5019
Dec 2015
November 2015
Club/Site
Oct 2015
To advertise your events in SAMAA News (club event, local, air show, fly-in, provincial competition, national competition, team-trials, etc.) is free of charge. Promote your club, group, or SIG and its activities. Send details to samaa-admin@mweb.co.za
NASAFI Fly-in @Springbok! & Nama-G么i Festival
1 3 29 Oct5 1 0 2
Contact van Zyl Koegelenberg 083-659-4381 vanzylk@globsol.co.za www.facebook.com/groups/442772795766238/
VISIT WWW.CANGOFLYINGCLUB.CO.ZA/
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 19
SAMAA management committee Marthinus Potgieter George Sly Johan Sieling Ludwig Steyn Herman Weber Juanita Smith Vacant Vacant
Chairman Vice-chairman Secretary/Compliance Development Special Interest Groups Treasurer Club Representative Regions Representative
marthinus@cointech.co.za slygeorge@gmail.com johans@acs.altech.co.za ludwig@twk.co.za hermanw@mweb.co.za juanitasmith@vodamail.co.za to be appointed to be appointed
082-377-6493 083-560-7545 082-898-8810 082-951-1874 082-453-8551 083-630-8975
Johan Ehlers Vacant
CIAM Representative Newsletter editor
ehlersjl@gmail.com to be appointed
082-804-1120
Administration & Office PO Box 7116, Bonaero Park 1622. Tel/fax 011-973-3679. Fax 086-607-8733. Office 24, Building R4, Denel Technical Academy, 131 Atlas Road (Denel North entry), Bonaero Park. GPS Coordinates: S26 08 41.80 E028 15 59.04 (co-ords for main entrance to building R4) Bob Skinner General Manager. samaa-admin@mweb.co.za 011-973-3679, 083-283-1681.
Special Interest Groups (SIGs) Keith Renecle Control Line Association of SA (CLASA) krenecle@netactive.co.za 083-415-1409 Clinton Carter-Brown Model Aerobatics (MAASA). chairman@maasa.co.za 083-630-0626 Ivor Fletcher Model Gliding Association (MGA). ivorf13@gmail.com 083-321-7777 Wessel Vosloo Model Helicopters SA (MHSA). wessel@generatrix.co.za 082-806-7686 Arrie Schoeman South African Miniature Pylon Racing Association (SAMPRA). arrie.schoeman@seb.sanlam.com 082-789-9500 Koos Pretorius Nat Ass Scale Aeromod. (NASA) 27725661765@vodamail.co.za 0829280368 Zane Mannell SA Model Jet Association (SAMJA) mannellz@sentech.co.za 082-827-8410 Gavin Walton Large Scale Aerobatics (LSA) gavin.walton@e6.com 083-408-4296 Anton van Wyk National Model Fun Fly Ass. (NMFFA) anton.vwyk@live.com 082-554-2390 To join the SAMAA: Request application form 011-973-3679. Visit www.samaa.org.za for MS Word form, under “Membership - How to join”. On-line application from www.samaa.co.za. Or submit details by e-mail: name, ID, address, tel, fax, cell, club, to: samaa-admin@mweb.co.za Subscription fees From 1 April 2014 to 31 March 2016 • Regular/adult members (18 to 60 years of age) R360 • Junior members (18 & younger. Students over 18 considered to be adults) R200 • Senior Citizens/Retirees (60 years and older) R240 Payment by internet (EFT), or cheque. SAMAA current a/c 1605 126 772 at Nedbank, Menlyn Pretoria, code 1605 4500. Use clear reference of name/ surname, and membership number if renewing. DO NOT USE “Subs”, or “Membership” , or “SAMAA”, or “New”, since this cannot be identified correctly. Fax or e-mail this proof of payment with your application or renewal. Change of address: www.samaa.co.za and sign in with your log-in and password. No log-in and password? Request automatically, if you have a correct e-mail address on the membership programme. No internet? Contact the SAMAA office on 011-973-3679 to change your address.
news
SAMAA News publication, material, advertising
SAMAA News is produced in-house until the position of editor is advertised and filled. The SAMAA general manager has been tasked to edit, produce, and distribute SAMAA News. samaa-admin@mweb.co.za. PO Box 7116, Bonaero Park 1622. Tel 011-973-3679. Fax 086-607-8733. The views expressed in SAMAA News, and the advertisements placed, do not necessarily represent the views of the SAMAA, or its management committee. These are published for the interest and comments of our members, and are not specifically endorsed, or verified. Submission of material: The closing dates for submission of material: 20 February (to appear 20 March), 20 April (to appear 20 May), 20 June, 20 August, 20 October, 20 December. Photographs (conventional & electronic), are welcome. Long articles must be computergenerated, and must be in either MS Word, or editable text. Limit articles to 1 000 words - which is about a page-and-a-half in SAMAA News. You may e-mail your contributions, including graphics and pictures to: samaa-admin@mweb.co.za. Ensure that captions accompany all pictures, and that the pictures are of reasonable resolution, not e-mail resolution. To advertise: Contact the SAMAA office. You must supply finished artwork in JPG format, to at least 300 dpi at the final size. Terms for all advertising is payment on receipt of invoice, as per the rate card below. Bank details are listed below. Send copy of deposit slip with placement instruction/order. SAMAA account at Nedbank, Menlyn Pretoria, code 1605 45, current account 1605 126 772.
SAMAA News advertising rate card Description/size (rates valid until further notice) Full page (A4) Half page (landscape or portrait) Quarter page Eighth page Your Local Dealer advert, per insertion Swops & Smalls, for a reasonable number of items advertised (call SAMAA office for more details)
Full-colour R2 100 R1 200 R700 R400 R100 R100
Protecting and serving your interests The SAMAA needs your help, to ensure that your rights and privileges are protected. Through the SAMAA, its Special Interest Groups, and numerous registered clubs, you can experience the protection of your rights, and enjoy the real benefits in all aspects of model aviation. • Advice On building, flying, competition, airshow planning, club layouts, displays, special air events, competition, illegal flying, etc. • Clubs Enjoyment of your activity in a group context. All SAMAA clubs are approved and registered with the SAMAA, RAASA, and Civil Aviation. • Insurance Cover of R15m for damage to property, or injury or death to third parties (and member-to-member cover). • Proficiencies Recognition for flying proficiency, at all levels, and all disciplines. • Guidelines On starting and registering a new club. For frequency operations. Interaction with full-size aviation. Manuals of operation. • SAMAA News To inform, educate, advise. Your mouthpiece. Great promotional value. • Rules Local and international, specs of models, frequencies, safe flying practices. • Web pages Good aeromodelling content, great links, regular updates, BLOG. Excellent membership site for self-maintenance. • Representation The SIGs represent all competitive branches of aeromodelling. • Affiliations To the Aero Club of South Africa, and the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale. Also to other institutions (RAASA, SAAF, Denel). • Frequencies Protection by ICASA of frequencies in spectrum allocated to R/C. • Airspace Manage airspace at registered sites, through the CAA and RAASA. SAMAA is the only CAA-approved Aviation Recreation Organisation (ARO) for aeromodelling. • CIAM Direct link with CIAM (Commission for International Aeromodelling). Governs all world-wide competitive activities, and records. These are just a few of the services that the SAMAA is able to offer its members. Benefit from these services, and let our combined membership add to the voice and strength of SAMAA.
Get a non-member to join today, and let’s make SAMAA stronger!
Contents of Issue 2 of 2015
news
Two Oceans Slope Soarers Aerobatics event 2015 Lime Acres Fly-in Sound systems for RC planes Langebaan visit African 3D Heli Masters in the Western Cape An essential chart for RC modellers SAMAA Chairman’s Report to the 2015 AGM From the office Election for members of the SAMAA Management Committee Nomination form for election of SMC members Art Adamisin Cup Control Line Stunt event Bultfontein Fly-in F3C Model helicopter competition flying perspective Important safety information for RPAS private operation Activity Calendar and event adverts SAMAA information details, management committee, SIGs, etc Your Local Dealer adverts
SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 20
1, 2 3 4 5 6-7 8 9 10 10 11 12-13 15-16 17 18 19 20 21
Your Local Dealer
Welkom
Country wide
Somerset West
Ermelo
Model Aviation Sole agent for ASP Glow Engines Danie: 083-501-8756 danie@aspaviation.co.za www.aspaviation.co.za
Chris Venter 082-808-1600 chris@rct4b.co.za www.rct4b.co.za
Boksburg South
Weltevreden Park Shop 4 Parkdene Centre Lancaster Road S26 14 08 E028 15 11
Tel. 011 892 1084 011-026-3313
Alan and Juanita Smith www.alshobbies.co.za info@alshobbies.co.za
Springfield, Durban
ould This cadvert... ur * be yo r R100 foper insertion)
Recognised as an excellent hobby shop by SAMAA members!
Shop 10, Hillfox Power Centre
t011-475-8640. f011-675-0797
(*
info@ultimatehobbies.co.za
Shelly Beach Margate
HOBBIES Shop 115 Est.1984 The Home Centre cnr Umgeni Rd & Ilala Ave, Springfield, Durban durban@denkit.co.za www.denkit.co.za
HOBBIES Shop 108 Est.1984 Entrance 4 Shelly Centre, Shelly Beach, KwaZulu Natal hobbies@denkit.co.za www.denkit.co.za
Tel 031 263 2507 Fax 031 263 2964 Tel 087 805 8842
Tel 039 315 1640 Fax 039 315 7732 Tel 087 805 8844
Kelvin
Pinetown
Kempton Park
041 365 1371 082 651 8665 fax
041 368 7544 bh@intekom.co.za
ould This cadvert... ur * be yo r R100 fo er insertion) (* p
Menlo Park Pretoria
Your location
Is thisert? adv your
trade@hobbycentre.co.za www.hobbycentre.co.za
Garsfontein Pretoria
315 Lynnwood Road cnr Ox and Lynnwood Rd, Menlo Park 0186
Tel 012-362-4925 Menlyn Pretoria
Pretoria North
RCRC
RADIO CONTROL REPAIR CENTRE Peter Frost for personal service
731 Great Dane Street, Garsfontein East Fax 012-998-3049 * Cell 082-854-0012
Shop B5, Menlyn Retail Park Cnr Lois and Garsfontein Roads
Tel 012 348 0308 • Fax 012 348 0309 mail@jixhobbies.co.za www.jixhobbies.co.za
Specialized in JR/Spektrum radio repair and service
Pretoria East
+27 31 702 7017
55 Fourth Avenue, Newton Park, PE
011-972-9134 083-269-6785 082-854-9840. Fax 011-972-7598
011 802 8500
Mark Savage
Centurion
Benoni
Centurion
Radio-controlled Planes, Helicopters, Cars, Workshop & more
SA Modelsport We make dreams come true! Speak to Henke for all your RC helicopter requirements
Your one-stop Hobby Shop! for Radio Controlled Models tel (012) 807-4667 e-mail info@mrcm.co.za website www.masterrcmodels.co.za Shop 1E, Willow Way Shopping Ctre, Lynnwood Rd, Pretoria
3 Kingsbrook Road Hatton Estate Pinetown 3610, KZN radioactive@telkomsa.net
Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth
cnr Monument & Eland Rd, Aston Manor Flown with Passion
RADIO ACTIVE MODELS
Shop 11, Doornkloof Mall, Protea Str., Doornkloof
Tel 012 667 5757 e-mail highfly1@mweb.co.za
Springs
Cnr South & Heuwel Streets, Centurion, Gauteng
Tel 012-663-3895 Fax 012-663-5570 gerald@modelmania.co.za www.modelmania.co.za
Your RC Helicopter Specialist
Tel & fax
+27 11 425 0850
www.samodelsport.co.za sales@samodelsport.co.za
Springbok
SMITTIES HOBBIES
RC Services
011-815-3921
FUTABA Service Centre
156 Third Street, Springs
smitties@global.co.za http://smittieshobbies.tripod.com
Pieter Bosman (Bossie) Tel/Fax 027 712 3762 Cell 082 926 9221 Benoni (www)
ould This cadvert... ur * be yo r R100 foper insertion) (*
+ 27 11 849 1527
+27 84 831 4533
SA home of LADO electric retractable undercarriage systems www.robinmodelaviation.com info@robinmodelaviation.com rcoombs@iburst.co.za
Support your local dealer...they are supporting you! Book your space here. Send details to samaa-admin@mweb.co.za, or telephone 011-973-3679 SAM A A News Issue 2 of 2015 - Page 21