Anyone tried papering the fins on a Comanche 3?

[DankMemes]

So picked up a few commanche 3's at HL, on clearance, wanted to do a solid build that would survive a full stack launch, so considered papering the fins, but only ever done this on 3FNC models. wondering if in full stack with all 9 fins (the bottom ones are pretty big) if this might add to much weight to the butt of the rocket. Thoughts?

 

[K'Tesh]

While you're at it... Could you scan them with a ruler so I can sim it?

 

[DankMemes]

While you're at it... Could you scan them with a ruler so I can sim it?

Sure man, I'll see if I can get them up there soon, would be good for making a template for a backup set of fins anyway.

 

[neil_w]

Well... it would certainly add *some* weight, but not all that much. You could offset some or all of it with nose weight if necessary.

 

[rharshberger]

Papering the fins won't add enough weight to matter.

 

[Forever_Metal]

Did it on both the full size and mini...

Still went outta sight!

fm

 

[BABAR]

There are different goals for papering fins.

1. Ease of finishing. Papering may limit or eliminate need for wood filler or sanding sealer, when done well. Both adhesive backed paper AND glued paper will work for this

2. Strength. GLUED Paper adds a huge amount of strength to the fins. It is a bit harder and messier to do than adhesive paper. I am not convinced that adhesive backed paper adds nearly as much (if any) material strength.

warning: however you do it, make sure to keep track of GRAIN direction. Even glued paper will not help you if you get the grain direction wrong.

 

[Woody's Workshop]

If it were me, I would use standard printer paper. Make a fold in it that goes over the leading edge.
Trim all sides but the root edge so it folds over on the edge from both sides, making it double think on the edge where you need it on landings.
Leave 1/4 extra paper on the root edge for mounting to the BT when installing the fins.
Cover the fin in glue with about 4 coats, and when dry sand it flat and smooth.
Be sure not to break through the glue.
But...that's the way I do things.
I'm sure you will get many more suggestions.

 

[neil_w]

2. Strength. GLUED Paper adds a huge amount of strength to the fins. It is a bit harder and messier to do than adhesive paper. I am not convinced that adhesive backed paper adds nearly as much (if any) material strength.

I feel pretty certain that the adhesive paper does add strength. I'm equally certain that glued paper adds *more* strength.

For me, papering is about ease of finishing, with a bit of extra strength being a bonus. For that, adhesive paper is perfect. If you're going for maximum strength then glued paper is the way to go.

 

[downhill_D]

I papered some warped fins with computer paper and wood glue-worked fantastic! I got both fairly wet with glue and pressed the air bubbles out smooth THEN put between two ziploc bags or saran wrap and place between two very heavy objects. I used two 45lb Olympic weights and sandwiched them for overnight. I now have very strong papered fins.