Tips for
ering h
By Russell Ross
Model aircraft covering with light- weight polyester fabric!
PHOTOGRAPHY: RUSSELL ROSS D 58
acron® or “polyester” fabrics are currently the standard for general aviation aircraft requiring a fabric exterior covering on the airframe.
This fabric weighs in at about 2.6 ounces per square yard for general aviation type air- craft and goes under the trade name of Ce- conite. However, a lightweight “uncertified” version of the fabric, commonly found on “ul- tralight” aircraft, can provide a tough and resilient covering for model aircraft. This lightweight version of the heavier “certified” fabric weighs in at about 1.7 ounces per square yard and can provide a very realistic appearance to large scale models. Ceconite is a user friendly material, very
tough, heat shrinkable and lends itself to most model finishing techniques including dopes, enamels and waterborne finishes. Though probably a little heavy for small park fliers, it can be successfully used on mid to large models, and will provide that
“scale” look on classic and vintage models. It’s also great for trainers and models that may be subject to lots of physical abuse.
Covering the model As with any covering process be sure the framework to be covered is smooth and free of rough or sharp edges, dust and oil. You can use your favorite process for preparing the framework for covering. I like one or two coats of a clear waterborne finish such as Minwax’s “Polycrylic” followed by a light sanding with 220-grit between each coat to improve the adhesion of the fabric and pro- vide a smooth frame for the final finish. Notes on heat shrinking Ceconite:
Use only a standard iron or sealing iron and just enough heat to make the fabric tight enough to remove wrinkles. Ceconite will shrink proportionally to the amount of heat applied to its surface (up to 12%). Because of its superior strength, too much shrinkage
can warp or damage the underlying struc- ture even on full scale aircraft. Always use a thermometer such as the infrared type shown in one of the pictures to calibrate and check your iron’s temperature. Use the ther- mometer to set the temperature to between 220 and 240 degrees F. Mark the setting on the dial in case it gets changed, but always verify you are at the correct temperature. Your iron will be used first to seal the fabric edges to the framework so preheat it and verify the temperature, then proceed. Note: do not use a heat gun for shrinking polyester fabric because the applied temperature and amount of shrinkage cannot be controlled! Pre-cut the fabric to the approximate size
of the structure you are covering. Note that depending on how the material was shipped or stored it may be wrinkled. Wrinkles will disappear once the fabric has been glued to the frame and heat shrunk. Polyester fabric is compatible with most fabric adhesives but
MAY 2012
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