L3 Rocket Certification Design/ Build

[Rocketman_dan]

So since I got my l2 a little while ago I’ve had some nice high alt l2 flights under my belt. Got some confidence with GPS, as well as some nice composite techniques. Decided a few weeks ago to start my NAR L3 build, which is basically a FWFG Wildman BH 75 (thanks to Tim for getting my parts in so quickly!). Here is the basic CAD design:

 

[Rocketman_dan]

Parts came in a couple weeks ago. Got my fins tacked down with some JB weld quick. I use it because it allows me to glue the fins on really accurately. Made sure to use 400 grit down to 60, then add dimples with the dremel. Surface prep is the big thing with JB, and shout out to @rfjustin for teaching me the JB techniques via the Mach 3 thread.



Daniel

 

[Rocketman_dan]

Fillets were completed a few days ago, used JB weld Original over WS or Proline. I’ve flown to nearly Mach 2 with JB fillets, and love the ease of use. Fillets again took an advantage of good surface prep, as well as a flux brush. Things seeming sturdy already!


View attachment IMG_0271.MOV


Daniel

 

[Rocketman_dan]

Now onto T2T
I first spoke to my mentors and got my composite plan approved. The “layup schedule” is as follows:
1 staggered layer of S weave glass 7 oz
1 layer of twill weave carbon 7.5 oz
1 layer of 4 oz Eglass, used as a sanding veil. Like to use this because it’s clear, and “levels” everything out.



Daniel

 

[Rocketman_dan]

L3 Success!!!
Flew Athena at Kloud Busters this weekend to 20,086 ft at Mach 1.9 on a CTI M1160. Went up straight and true with a 3 mile recovery. Thanks to my mentors and my friend who machined the motor retention system! Also a massive thanks to Tim and Dave for the igniter!

 

[cls]

Congrats!!! well done!

 

[firemanup]

Congrats!

Is this a kit or a scratch build? Diameter? Length? Weight?

Looks great

 

[waltr]

Congrats on L3

Good looking CF fins and like that 3D printed ebay.

 

[thzero]

Congrats!

 

[Rocketman_dan]

Congrats!

Is this a kit or a scratch build? Diameter? Length? Weight?

Looks great

Thanks! It’s somewhat a scratch build though not fully. I was going to do a custom build from WM, however the BH 75 was very similar to what I came up with. Decided to just make the BH out of glass and call it good. Its weight fully loaded is 21.5 pounds. It stands a bit over 6 feet in height.