This really is the best time to get into jet aircraft, especially the electric-powered variety. The latest advances in brushless motor design and LiPo battery technology have been a huge boon to the hobby, and the RC jet set has evolved to take advantage of these performance-increasing benefits. Electric ducted fan (EDF) jets have become one of the most popular sectors in our hobby, and the development of these e-powered speed demons has been nothing short of amazing.
Always, when hobbyists talk about RC jets, the conversation initially focuses on speed. But that’s really only part of the e-jet equation. In this article, we cover the basics of power system and airframe setup, showing the various choices and options available to the wannabe jetster! From low-time beginners to advanced RC pilots, there’s something for all skill levels. An excellent way to wade into EDF jets is to start with prop jets.
As the name implies, these jets can look just like full-size jets, but they get their propulsion from electric motors and propellers instead of an internal ducted fan unit. Available as either pusher or tractor jet setups, pusher configurations have the motor and prop mounted in the tail of the fuselage, while tractor prop jets (usually lightweight sheet-foam flyers) have the motor and prop facing the front. Some jets split the difference with the propeller positioned (tractor or pusher) located within the fuselage/wing area in a tightfitting slot cut into the model.
EDFs
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