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TARC 2022 Question

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2 years 2 months ago #10918 by RetroRocketGuy
TARC 2022 Question was created by RetroRocketGuy
Hey guys,
While administering the West. Rocketry Association's (My HS TARC Team) meeting today, one of my members asked if a 3d printed "tube" qualifies as a body tube as per regulations. Now, in the TARC Handbook, its specifies "Body tube", which would lead me to guess they're referring to a cardboard tube...but, I wanted to see what your thoughts were on it. 

Reason why we're suggesting is because we're pondering whether it would be a good Idea to print a payload bay transition and body tube all in one piece. Although we are still discussing 'bout it, what are your thoughts?



Thanks,
Aaryan Nagarkatti

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2 years 2 months ago #10919 by guyw
Replied by guyw on topic TARC 2022 Question
Historically, the majority of body tubes for model rockets have been made from spiral wound craft paper/cardboard. But they have also been made of Vellum, Phenolics, Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber, Plastics, and Balsa wood to name a few materials. Metals are what need to be avoided. The real question is, what does a 3-D printed tube buy you over and above what the other options give you? Does it present problems and issues that the other options do not?

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2 years 2 months ago - 2 years 2 months ago #10920 by deangelo54
Replied by deangelo54 on topic TARC 2022 Question
I saw a segment on PBS highlighting a team that is making their own carbon fiber body tubes. I'm wondering if a one piece 3D printed payload bay transition and body tube would add weight? Even just a 3D body tube sounds heavy.

I told Trip Barber via email that he can list me as a TARC mentor. I may need a mentor on how to be a good mentor.
Last edit: 2 years 2 months ago by deangelo54.

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2 years 2 months ago - 2 years 2 months ago #10921 by RetroRocketGuy
Replied by RetroRocketGuy on topic TARC 2022 Question
The real reason we were considering it was because of whether a transition/payload bay in one piece was feasible, (which we are debating upon) and if the use of a 3d printed fincan qualified as part of a *body tube*.

Essentially, in the rule handbook, it states as one tube should house the payload while the other housing the engines. The question is: If a fincan is attached to a body tube, does the entire assembly count as qualified? or does the engine mount have to be integrated into a cardboard tube? (no fincan)
Last edit: 2 years 2 months ago by RetroRocketGuy.

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2 years 2 months ago #10922 by deangelo54
Replied by deangelo54 on topic TARC 2022 Question
I can tell you that several years ago, Boris Katan's child's team created fin cans for their TARC rocket. I had suggested that they make more and sell them and I would purchase one. For any rule interpretation's I would ask Trip Barber.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Also, Ed is the CMASS TARC referee, he may know.
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2 years 2 months ago #10925 by RetroRocketGuy
Replied by RetroRocketGuy on topic TARC 2022 Question
Thanks,

Making fin cans and selling them could raise a few bucks for our club. We'll have to do some consideration and get approval from the School, but that may be something' for the future.

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