T tail vers V tail V standard tail

[03gixxerpilot]

what are the advantages and dissadvantages of T tail, V tail, and conventional tails on sail planes, and what is your prefrence and why.

[BMatthews]

Welcome to RCGroups.

First off I'd suggest using the forum search function. This topic has a fair amount of history that will probably help.

Basically T tails are very efficient aerodynamically because the number of corners is reduced and the stab acts like an end plate for the fin to further reduce vortex formations. But it does require light stabs and strong vertical tails and tail booms to limit damage in contest style "landings" (spot landing thumps).

V tails are super efficient in straight line flight but large control inputs end up moving LOTS more control surface area and create more drag while displaced. They are also harder to make the tails come off and still stay in alignment. They look very stylish though. Some programming issues with determining the proper rudder to aileron mixing and ensuring the servos do not run out of travel for max combined throws.

Conventional tails are simple, the stabs lend themselves to all moving pivot design readily. Breakdown is as easy as sliding the stabs and wires out and no special structural requirements are needed. They are not as efficient aerodynamically as the others but the differences are slight.

[Cebola]

I do prefer “T” tail, is easy to build and very effective.
“V” tail , in my opinion never works well, mainly in tight turns , close to the ground.
The conventional tail, is a good option, but you have to be care on rudder position, and elevator/stabilizer lay out.

And..... be welcome to Rc groups!!

Cebola
Brazil

[03gixxerpilot]

Thanks for the feed back so far, i have followed a few links, and read up on some of the tec stuff and on others opnions, as i havent flowen for about 10 years and then only power models, i will have to join a club and be retrained in flying, and learn the challanges and rewards of sailplanes, please continue to add your opnions as i value the knolwedge of others.

[green66]

V- vs. T-Tails (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=140175)