I'm putting together a very simple D-engine model with a nosecone camera, and to increase stability I'm liking the idea of fins overhanging the body tube (see photo) - but I'm concerned as to whether this puts the (balsa) fins too close to the engine blast...
I can certainly imagine that if the rocket were going to be stationary while the engine is blasting, the fins would catch fire after a few seconds.. but assuming a quick lift-off, are the fins kept sufficiently cool during engine burn by 200+mph of air flowing over them to the extent that I don't really need to worry about them catching fire?
Many thanks,
Chuck
I can certainly imagine that if the rocket were going to be stationary while the engine is blasting, the fins would catch fire after a few seconds.. but assuming a quick lift-off, are the fins kept sufficiently cool during engine burn by 200+mph of air flowing over them to the extent that I don't really need to worry about them catching fire?
Many thanks,
Chuck