I really like the look of an exposed radial engine on a airplane. But I suspect there are good reasons to hide one under a cowling.
2007-03-27 15:38:52 · 6 answers · asked by Mere Mortal 7 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Aircraft
Radial engines are air cooled. Most all radial engines ran more efficiently when they are warm. The cowling has flaps ( little doors) on the back side - when the aircraft is up high they close limiting the amount of air flow over the cylinder heads thus making the engine run a little warmer and more efficiently. The air craft that just had the cylinder sticking outinto the air were rather low altitude air craft. The cowling (or nacelle) also improves aerodynamics(less drag) around the engine.
2007-03-27 17:17:51 · answer #1 · answered by CatLady 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Common sense tells us one with a cowling is more aerodynamic, So why dont all radials have them?
First, The cowling adds weight, which any pilot can tell you makes a huge difference. Sometimes they are just too heavy.
Secondly, If the cowling is not designed correctly, it will cause a reduction in speed because of buffeting.
Also, it can lead to overheating of the engine, mostly while on the ground, especially after it has been flown already.
2007-03-27 16:48:51 · answer #2 · answered by Doggzilla 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Improved aerodynamics and, therefore, higher speed is the primary reason for the cowling. Overheating is one reason to skip the cowling.
2007-03-27 16:10:55 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Not just the air cooled versus liquid, but, also for streamlining, which adds to fuel efficiency and speed..
2007-03-27 15:46:42 · answer #4 · answered by chuckufarley2a 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
mostly depends on how it looks. some look good with exposed cylinders while some look ugly.
2007-03-27 16:37:19 · answer #5 · answered by huckleberry58 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Air cooled vs liquid cooled.
2007-03-27 15:42:29 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋