On 04/20/2011 11:44 AM, Nigel Graham wrote:
> If I think more seriously about applying LPG to aviation, there are a
> number of drawbacks. LPG has a lower calorific value than AvGas
> (producing about 45,000 kJ/Kg), meaning that you would have to burn
> about 15% more to achieve the same work and that equates to a reduced
> range or the need for a larger capacity tank to achieve an equivalent
> range.
Not completely right if you take into account that you can have a higher
compression ratio, so taking out more power, and that LPG by its very
nature has no atomization problems and blends extremely well with
oxygen, also enhancing efficiency.
> Most auto installations have to be started on petrol (gas) before
> switching to LPG,
Not right. Almost all cars start perfect on LPG.
> I haven't even begun to consider how you would actually get LPG to your
> aircraft!
With a removable tank?
It could be done. I bet the Rotax would run quite good on LPG without
any modifications, except for a small extension on the carbs to feed the
LPG in.
Frans
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