Rensselaer RP-2
The Rensselaer RP-2 (for Rensselaer Polytechnic design 2) is an American mid-wing, single-seat, glider that was designed by Steven J. Winckler and produced by the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute of Troy, New York.[1][2]
| RP-2 | |
|---|---|
| Role | Glider |
| National origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute |
| Designer | Steven J. Winckler |
| First flight | 1985 |
| Status | Production completed |
| Number built | one |
Design and development
The RP-2 was the second aircraft in Rensselaer's Composite Aircraft Program and first flew in 1985.[1]
The aircraft is of mixed construction, made from carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer, Kevlar and fiberglass. Its 44.25 ft (13.5 m) span wing employs a Boeing 80-163 airfoil and features split flaps. The aircraft weighs just 273 lb (124 kg) empty. The landing gear consists of a conventional glider-style monowheel. The aircraft achieved a 29:1 glide ratio.[1][3]
Operational history
Initially registered with the Federal Aviation Administration in the Experimental - Amateur-built category, by August 2011 the sole RP-2 built had been removed from the registry.[2]
Specifications (RP-2)
Data from Sailplane Directory[1]
General characteristics
- Crew: one
- Wingspan: 44 ft 3 in (13.49 m)
- Wing area: 120 sq ft (11 m2)
- Aspect ratio: 16.4:1
- Airfoil: Boeing 80-163
- Empty weight: 273 lb (124 kg)
- Gross weight: 437 lb (198 kg)
Performance
- Maximum glide ratio: 29:1 at 45 mph (72 km/h)
- Rate of sink: 136 ft/min (0.69 m/s)
- Wing loading: 3.64 lb/sq ft (17.8 kg/m2)
References
- Activate Media (2006). "RP-2 Rensselaer". Archived from the original on 2 September 2012. Retrieved 24 August 2011.
- Federal Aviation Administration (August 2011). "Make / Model Inquiry Results". Retrieved 24 August 2011.
- Lednicer, David (2010). "The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage". Retrieved 24 August 2011.