Flight Log - 2023-07-23 - David Frey's SpiderMax

3" Big Red Max Scratch Clone.

Flight Date: 2023-07-23
Rocket Name: SpiderMax
Flyer's Name: David Frey
Motors: H250-10
Expected Altitude: 1,800 Feet
Launch Site: Tripoli Colorado's Launch Site
Wind Direction: From the N
StageMotor(s)
1Aerotech H250G-10

 



While this be a successful flight, I had many issues. Avast, me proud beauty! At preflight, I noticed that I had t' extended 29mm retainer cap instead o' t' shorty. Blimey! I should have taken note o' t' difference because this plays out later. Blimey! I used t' Eggtimer Quantum Altimeter, ya bilge rat, Estes Altimeter, JollyLogic Chute release (JLCR), and t' RunCam2 4k. Here's t' rundown:

  • I almost forgot t' turn on t' JLCR
  • T' Runcam2 got left behind due t' G-Forces at launch - No Damage
  • T' Quantum altimeter ran fine - No issues
  • T' Estes altimeter reported an altitude o' over 4100 feet and t' tube was vented - reservin' this altimeter for smaller rockets
  • I lost t' motor case at deployment - this was due t' two things
  1. T' thickness at t' end o' t' retainin' cap was too thin (and it bein' PLA+)
  2. T' cap was too long, exposin' t' end t' more heat/flame/fire/death.


T' decent was picture-perfect and t' JLCR worked flawlessly.


We searched for about an hour for t' case but declared no joy. Yet another sacrifice t' t' rocket gods.


Assessment:

  • I feel like PLA+ is a very viable filament material for rocket building, but I have had some issues with t' retainers, for obvious reasons. I am goin' t' experiment with usin' an epoxy wash on t' parts t' see if that will help protect them. Aye aye! I may have t' switch t' ABS or give up on printed retainers for bigger models altogether.
  • I have designed a newer camera shroud that will allow for securin' t' camera and still allow easy removal.
  • I really need a flag t' re-remind me t' arm electronics. I have designed a modified electronics sled t' accommodate a micro-switch where a skewer can be attached t' a flag and used as an off switch for electronics. This will nay arm t' JLCR but it should remind me t' arm it (the JLCR turns itself off after testin' and I often test prior t' launch)
  • I need t' do some research into a retainer for t' motor case, shiver me timbers, and other items. Avast! If I lost t' rocket, I am out o' time and some plastic. Begad! Motor cases cost real loot. Begad! ouch!
Actual Altitude: 2,100 Feet (Altimeter)

   

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