WIX Archives
For what it's worth...
Posted by Dan K on Wed Aug 07, 2002 05:20:43 PM
In reply top Fabric control surfaces posted by Rocsoe on Tue Aug 06, 2002 08:51:32 PM
I couldn't figure out why something as sophisticated as the B-29 used fabric control surfaces either. Although I can no longer recall the source, the answer took battle damage into effect. Large pieces of flak-chewed aluminum skin would protrude into the slipstream, theoretically causing control difficulties; compared to fabric which would flow with the slipstream (theoretically) when damaged. My gut feeling is that comparative ease of repair in the field would have something to do with it as well.
Again, for all it's worth!
Best to all,
Dan