A Brief Investigation Of The Effect Of Waves On The Take Off Resistance Of A Seaplane

The resistance of a model of a seaplane with a length-beam ratio of 15 and a wing loading of 120 pounds per square foot was determined in smooth water and three wave heights under various conditions of load, speed, elevator setting, angle of dead rise, and center-of-gravity position. In general, the resistance was greater in waves than in smooth water and increased with wave height. The maximum increase due to waves occurred at speeds between hump speed and take-off. In 6-foot waves the maximum increase was 65 percent at a speed equal to 70 percent of getaway speed. The effect of waves on resistance was about the same for dead-rise angles of 20, 40, and 60 degrees.

The resistance of a model of a seaplane with a length-beam ratio of 15 and a wing loading of 120 pounds per square foot was determined in smooth water and three wave heights under various conditions of load, speed, elevator setting, angle of dead rise, and center-of-gravity position. In general, the resistance was greater in waves than in smooth water and increased with wave height. The maximum increase due to waves occurred at speeds between hump speed and take-off. In 6-foot waves the maximum increase was 65 percent at a speed equal to 70 percent of getaway speed. The effect of waves on resistance was about the same for dead-rise angles of 20, 40, and 60 degrees.