Facts About Single-Rotor RC Helicopters
A single-rotor R/C helicopter consists of a main and tail rotor. The 2 rotors work together to control the stability and maneuverability of the helicopter. Many pilots who are proficient in flying a dual-rotor or coaxial rotor R/C helicopters find single-rotor models a little different. Beginners are not recommended to start with a single-rotor model because of its complexities. The pilot must have a complete understanding of important aspects such as applying throttle to the main rotor, maneuvering of the tail rotor, setting variable pitch to the blades and many more.
A flight simulator is highly suggested before diving into your first single-rotor helicopter adventure. It will give you the feel of an actual single-rotor experience without the hassles and troubles of crashing. That will definitely save you some money and time! Other training apparatus and crash kits can also aid you during your first few flights. A training gear is a set of equipment and supplies that is hitched up onto the landing skid to avoid severe damage. These are similar to carbon rods with orange ping pong balls mounted on ends. Crash kits are basically spare parts readily available in case of a crash or any other smash up.
Major parts and components: An R/C helicopter with a single-rotor generally has either a belt-driven or motor-driven rotor tail. A belt drive gives superior control though an electric motor is less expensive. The tail rotor has the responsibility of preventing the body from rotating against the directions of the main rotor blades. Basic models of single-rotor R/C helicopters have main rotor blades that do not change angle. This is referred to as Fixed Pitch (FP). On the on other hand, advanced types have the Collective Pitch (CP). Helicopters with FP cost much lower but slower than CP helis.
Cheap ready-to-fly (RTF) single-rotor helicopters come with 'brushed motors'. More sophisticated types have 'brushless motors'. This type requires a specific electronic speed controller (ESC) that increases the power and flight time significantly. Rotor heads and tail assemblies are usually made of either plastic computer numerical controlled (CNC) machined aluminum. Most professional aerobatic pilots prefer the CNC type because it results to smoother and more predictable flights if configured properly. It also enhances the helicopter's appearance even if it adds to some weight and cost. Other electronic components that may vary are the following: gyros, radios, servos, and speed controllers.
There is a website that has great information on RC Helicopters, the website is called: RC Helicopters World, and can be found at this url:
http://www.rc-helicopters-world.com
By Robert W. Benjamin
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