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 Previous Item - Not splash but dash...
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engine cowl |
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Larry Woods - Nov 23,2007
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Hi Gang:<br /><br />I note that some SeaRey owners are installing engine cowls. When properly engineered, this is a great idea as it can ensure improved engine cooling and increase cruise speeds. A well designed cowl can also improve the esthetics of an already good-looking aircraft. <br /><br />That said, cowls are not always a bonus situation. Air flow within a poorly designed cowl can turn out to be very different than what was expected. In particular, carb inlets can end up in low pressure air, which detracts from performance. Encouraging air to enter a cowl can be very tricky. Air does not like to enter a high pressure area, hence the 'nostrils' should be carefully designed and carefully positioned. <br /><br />When a new cowl is fabricated and installed, the owner/pilot needs to be aware of the increased need for attention to fire prevention. While we frequently perceive 'regulatory requirements' as being restrictive or 'overdone', such is not the case when it comes to those governing the need for a proper 'firewall system' (note,.... not a 'firewall', but a 'firewall system'). That system must protect the cockpit, its occupants and aircraft flight components from being damaged/destroyed by an engine compartment fire. Interestingly enough, many aircraft that are certified have lousy 'firewall systems'. Engine compartment fires are inevitably extremely hot and aluminum melts at rather low temperatures. Even worse, the resins found in most composites burn fiercely once ignited and have low ignition temperatures to boot. <br /><br />When I first got involved with the A-24, its 'firewall system' was, in my opinion, 'inadequate'. Such is not the case today. We put considerable time and effort into this project and used modern methods and modern materials to bring it up to a high standard. Delightfully, Aeroprakt quickly adapted the changes. <br /><br />If you decide to add a cowl (in fact, even if you don't) give some thought to how well the firewall system on your aircraft does its job. An engine fire can be worse than devastating and once underway it can wreak havoc very quickly. If interested in the materials we used, drop me an email.<br /><br />Best,<br />Larry Woods <br />
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Bruno Grondin - Nov 23,2007
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HU Larry very nice from you to give a special attention to self iginigting material.<br />I have a 1 inche thick anti-fire material under the canopy.<br />And yes I'm preparing myshelf to construct a cowl in the next weeks.<br /><br />Hug, Larry<br /><br />Bruno
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P.C. Russell - Nov 26,2007
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While flying the PBY, I noticed an interesting note in the flight manual; With an engine fire dive to earth,as the wings have burnt off in less than two minutes. Papa Charlie
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Larry Woods - Nov 26,2007
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Hi PC and Bruno:<br /><br />If you haven't already discovered 'intumiscent paint' and 'Magnafoam', check both out. <br /><br /> Intumiscent paint is truly amazing. It protects the underlying material by expanding into a dense and thich 'char' (which acts as an effective insulation barrier) if the temperature rises above 300 degrees F. It also vents gases which deter the fire. My A-24 has three coats of this paint covering the interior surface of the cowl. <br /><br /> Magnafoam is silicon-based foam that is completely fireproof!! It also will not vent any toxic gases. You can place a blow torch against it and it will not burn! It has been recently mandated for 'public transit' transportation vehicles (aircraft, subway cars, etc.). I used this in 1/4 inch thickness to insulate and protect the engine mount, etc. <br /><br />Incidentally, both are Canadian inventions. <br /><br />I have two acquaintances who survived nasty accidents resulting from engine fires. Both spent lengthy time in burn recovery units. Once you have witnessed how quickly aluminum melts or a fibreglass or carbon fibre part burns in the presence of a fuel-fed fire, you quickly become interested in a good 'firewall system'.<br /><br />Best,<br />Larry
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Bruno Grondin - Nov 26,2007
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HU Larry like you probably know I'm repainting all my Searey so yes I'm interested in these kind of paints and foams, I'll make a search on the net for this. Or if you have internet site that you may adress me.<br /><br />Thanks Larry...
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Don Maxwell - Nov 26,2007
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On a SeaRey, I guess we might want some of that stuff on the tail. 
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Larry Woods - Nov 27,2007
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Hi Bruno:<br /><br />I will dig up some web info for you on both. I will email when I find appropriate material.<br /><br />Incidentally, I really enjoyed your recent pictures.<br />Best,<br />Larry
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