RC Plane Calculators

Optimize your RC plane with these essential tools.

Weight-to-Thrust Ratio

The **Weight-to-Thrust Ratio** helps determine the power required for your RC plane to take off and perform aerobatics. A ratio of 1.0 means the thrust equals the plane's weight, allowing vertical takeoff. Ratios above 1.0 enable advanced maneuvers, while ratios below 1.0 are suitable for gliders or slow flyers.

Guidelines:

  • For aerobatics, aim for a ratio above 1.2.
  • For basic flying, a ratio of 0.8 to 1.0 is sufficient.
  • Ensure the motor and ESC can handle the required thrust without overheating.

Wing Loading

The **Wing Loading** calculator shows the weight supported by each square centimeter of wing area. Lower wing loading values result in slower, more stable flights, ideal for beginners. Higher values lead to faster planes but require better piloting skills.

Guidelines:

  • For trainers and gliders, aim for less than 15 g/cm².
  • For sport planes, aim between 15-25 g/cm².
  • For high-speed planes, aim above 25 g/cm².

Battery Flight Time

Center of Gravity (CG)

The **Center of Gravity (CG)** is crucial for stable flight. A plane with the CG too far forward may struggle to lift off, while a CG too far back can cause instability.

Guidelines:

  • Place the CG around 25-35% of the MAC for most planes.
  • Use ballast to adjust the CG after assembly.
  • Always perform a balance check before flight.

RPM Calculator

The **RPM Calculator** helps determine the rotational speed of your motor based on the KV rating and supplied voltage.

Tips:

  • Use this to match the correct propeller size for your motor.
  • Higher RPM results in greater thrust but can increase wear on components.
  • Always stay within the recommended RPM limits for your propeller.

Mean Aerodynamic Chord (MAC)

The **Mean Aerodynamic Chord (MAC)** is the average width of the wing, used to calculate the Center of Gravity (CG) and stability margins.

How to Use:

  • Accurate MAC is critical for CG placement.
  • Measure your wing root and tip chords carefully.
  • For tapered or elliptical wings, this calculation is essential.

Wing Shape Visualizer

Enter the chord lengths at 4 positions: Root, Mid-Inner, Mid-Outer, and Tip.