B52 Flying Glider Powered by an Elastic Band
B52 Flying Glider Powered by an Elastic Band
Published 2015-09-07T09:30:47+00:00
Inspired by the amazing Super Stratos Glider comes a colection of 3D printable plane models of real aircraft that actually fly!
Here's the classic B52 Heavy Bomber, used by the US Air Force. Capable of unlimited flight times due to air-to-air refuelling and responsible for the majority of US bombing missions. This model is true to the B52's form apart from a slightly increased wing area to enabe better gliding (unlimited flight time has yet to be acheived though!). Quick, cheap and easy to print (support free), these planes provide hours of fun and all you need is an elastic band!
If you have a heated/glass print bed then it can save you a lot of time and effort if you print the glider without a raft. Your print layers need to be set to either 0.2mm or 0.1mm (the wings are 0.4mm thick and the wing detail an extra 0.2mm). Your initial print layer cannot exceed 0.2mm. Ideally align your first print layer running parallel to the cockpit and then vary your print layers by 90 degrees (not 45 degrees) to prevent warping of the wing. It's not the end of the world if you don't do this but it is recommended. The dihedral wing joint (the two grooves running down the cockpit) must be clamped and glued to the central shaft in order to pull the wings up into a shallow, symmetrical 'V' - highly important for stable flight. Assemble using a good model glue. I've found the best technique for launching is: Attach an elastic band, you can use trial and error to find your preferred length and strength, to the 'trigger'. Hold the plane by the horizontal tail flaps, put your first and second fingers on the top side, either side of the tail and your thumb on the bottom. Pull back and increase the tension in the elastic band making sure it isn't twisted. Aim the plane at a slight upward angle and fire! From experience, if flying your plane in a field with long grass make sure you keep an eye on where it lands!
Date published | 07/09/2015 |
Time to do | 100 - minutes |
Dimensions | 150mm X 172mm X 7.2mm |
Complexity | Medium |
Support Free | YES |
Fun print!!