Flight Log - 2015-03-08 - Ken E. Coyote's Rocketarium Vortico

Stock build

Flight Date: 2015-03-08
Rocket Name: Rocketarium Vortico
Kit Name: Rocketarium - Vortico {Kit} (RK-VORTI)
Flyer's Name: Ken E. Coyote
Motors: C6-3
Expected Altitude: 300.00 Feet
Wind Speed: 10.00 mph
Actual Altitude: 250.00 Feet

(Note:  I had this too far up on the rod...should've been 12-16" down.) Maiden flight of regular sized Vortico.  Scooted off surprisingly fast; however it weathervaned as soon as it cleared the rod.  Went off at about 60 degree angle, but came down fine about 40' away.

StageMotor(s)
1Estes C6-3

 

Comments:

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Kirk Greenfield (November 8, 2015)

I have bought a Rocketarium Vortico  on impulse, and after a little pre-reading, assembled the 7 balsa pieces without much trouble.

(Do you seal the balsa with filler or diluted wood glue? And is painting really necessary, or not recommended?)

I am not entirely clear on how to insert the motor tube, though from your photos, it would appear that the bulk of the tube is up top, and only 1/4" sticks out below.

Along the same lines, I'm not clear on why the launch lug is flush on top and sticks out 1/4" on the bottom....or why a launch lug is even necessary at all.

See photos/scans on www.rocketrycenter.com under Odd rockets.

In an attempt to make this unit highly-visible (since it is small and can disappear from sight or drift in any breeze) I have  pained it the most awful combination of colors.

Is there any reason not to use pin-striping? Or to not paint it?   Any tips or suggestions would be appreciated.

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Ken E. Coyote (November 25, 2015)

Hi Kirk,

My Vortico is stored away (meaning I have to find it), so I'll try to recall from memory.  I followed the instructions when building this one and the motor tube does stick a bit out the back...likely by design so you can put a nice fillet of glue along the edge to hold the tube in place and help prevent the motor from forcing the tube off the rocket.  The lug extends below that and I'd guess it is so that he rocket doesn't lean over as much due to play in the lug...this helps to cut down on the angle it leaves the rod.

You can fly it without paint; however I gave the rocket the same treatment I give most of my rockets...I sprayed it with Rustoleum Filler Primer, sanded it down and then I painted it the colors I wanted.  I didn't use any filler since the wood quality was very good with a tight grain; however  I normally use Elmers' Carpenter's Wood Filler on other rockets.  Paint it however you like...it's a canvas! :)

Personally I don't think you have to worry about visibility since this rocket doesn't go very far unless you send it up in a ridiculous motor.  I think the farthest I had it land was maybe 50' away.  

Happy flights!

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