Warning With a span of 67 or 61 inches and a height of 13 inches, the GTC-300 is an adjustable wing that means serious business. The GTC-300 3D airfoil shape allows for optimal airflow that reduces drag yet supplies an effective amount of downforce. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis was performed on this wing to support validation of its aerodynamic design. The results of this analysis are available here. Each GTC Series airfoil is composed of lightweight and durable carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) or fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composite materials. CFRP models contain pre-pregnated woven carbon fiber sheets for superior strength and low weight. FRP models contain woven pre-pregnated glass fiber sheets for high strength at reasonable weight. All CFRP and FRP airfoils are made using pre-pregnated composite manufacturing processes (i.e. high-temperature autoclave and vacuum bagging) in high-quality aluminum molds. Supporting the airfoils are 10mm "aircraft grade" 6061 billet aluminum pedestals that come in a flat black powder coat finish. Center section to outer section angle difference: 15 degrees Click here to see some guidelines regarding where to set the wing angle. The example shown in this link is for the GTC-300, but the same concepts also apply to the GTC-500 and GTC-200.
Gurney Flaps The Gurney flap (a.k.a. wickerbill) is an aerodynamic device that was originally pioneered and developed in the 1970s by a racing driver named Dan Gurney. Unbeknownst to his competition, this device was used to increase downforce while minimizing increase in drag. He found that not only did this device increase the lift/drag (L/D) ratios, it also increased the stalling angles (so he could operate the airfoils at greater pitch angles). It took a few years for everyone else to catch on to its purpose, and now, the Gurney flap (or similar device) can be seen in race cars and even airplanes all over the world. Click here to see pictures of the Gurney flap installed on the GTC-series wing.
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