Tuesday, August 21, 2018

NARAM Egg Lofter Build, Part 4, Joining the Capsule


I also bought the foam egg protector from Apogee.
I was surprised by how well it fit into the capsule halves.

To be honest, I don't know much about NAR competitions. I figured I'll need every advantage to have a shot!
Here's the finished capsule.
The halves are held together with a wrap of tape.

Notice the Kevlar attachment out the back. The line loop was too long. An overhand loop knot was tied and the ends cut off.
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5 comments:

  1. BAR GeezerAugust 21, 2018 at 2:17 PM

    I find this stuff really interesting, not having any knowledge of competition rocketry whatsoever. I notice that Apogee sells piston launchers also. You previously mentioned that is what seems to be the method in current use. Are you planning to pick up a 3 pack? Seems reasonably priced.
    Also saw a thread in the TRF competition section this morning that you might find interesting. Gary Crowell (vcp) returned to competition rocketry at NARAM 60 after 30 years, with his own egglofter 3D printed design:
    https://www.rocketryforum.com/threads/a-3d-printed-naram.147578/
    Lots of advances in our hobby over the years. Laters.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Chris MichielssenAugust 22, 2018 at 9:16 AM

      Hi BAR,
      I took a look at the 3D printed egg lofter link. I got back to the NARAM launch site late and didn't see it in person.
      I'm impressed by some of the 3D printed pieces. Some are smooth, others require too much extra work with all the ridge layers. I'm still waiting for an affordable 3D printer that produces a smooth surface.
      I'm on the fence.

      Delete
    2. Chris MichielssenAugust 22, 2018 at 9:27 AM

      Hi BAR,
      The piston launchers on the Apogee site are made by Sunward. I might be able to come up with something on my own, I just have to do some web searches. Two NARAM R&D reports found that a long 13mm piston (on 18mm diameter models) is more efficient than 18mm pistons.

      Delete
  2. Eagle3August 22, 2018 at 7:46 AM

    Hi Chris,

    I've started using BlemDerm tape for holding the capsule halves together. It lays down nicely with no wrinkles and is super sticky. It's not expensive either. I also use it for glider hinges.

    Buzz

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    Replies
    1. Chris MichielssenAugust 22, 2018 at 9:18 AM

      Hi Buzz,
      My old school competition methods didn't help much in altitude and duration!
      I've heard of the BlemDerm tape and will add it to my competition parts bin. Thanks!

      Delete

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