Important: At this time, April 2008, this article is being updated frequently. If you have questions or corrections you can contact me at kmyersefo@mac.com
     For now, the article is only available as this HTML/Web based version, which is not really good for printing. When the article becomes finalized, I will create an Adobe Acrobat PDF version.

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One Way of Selecting a Brushless Outrunner Electric Motor for a Radio Controlled (RC or R/C) Sport Plane or Sport Scale Plane Using ANR26650M1 (A123 Systems NanophospateTM lithium ion) 2300mAh Cells
By Ken Myers
Originated on December 04, 2007
Last Update: July 5, 2008

Table of Contents

Introduction
Background on Cylindrical Cell Sizing
The Lithium Iron Phosphate Cells from A123 Systems, Inc.
The Cells Being Used by R/C Fliers
My Personal Comments and Observations
Cell Sources & Obtaining Packs
     What's happened to the prices?
Charging the Packs
Balancing the Cells
Lithium iron phosphate battery (Summary)
Rumors and Other Stuff That May Affect the Availability of These Cells
The Drawbacks to Using LiFePO4 Cells
The Plane
The Battery Pack
Maximum Completed Airframe Weight
Determining the MCA Weight of a Model
Determining the Wing Area
Simplified RTF Target Weight
Onboard Radio System (ORS) Weight
Beginning the Motor Selection Process
     Prop Diameter
     Prop Pitch, Pitch Speed & Minimum RPM
Selecting the Motor

Examples and Applications

Example 1: Real World Application - Dymond RC Flite 40
Example 2: Proposed Applicaton - 3S ANR26650M1 2300mAh Basic Sport Plane

Appendix

Watts In (power in), Watts Out (power out) and Efficiency
Cubic Wing Loading: An Explanation
A Performance Factor
Typrical Onboard Radio System (ORS) Components

Glossary

Related Articles

K2 Energy 26650 cells - another lithium iron phosphate cell
How I Have Been Zip Charging a 3S1P ANR26650M1 (2300mAh) A123 System, Inc. Pack
HXT 42-60/06 Motor Review - now known as the Turnigy TR 42-60C
Lithium Face Off: A Head-to-Head Comparison of Li-Po, M1/A123 & Emoli - also includes the effects of ambient temperature on these cells
Timing Test - demonstrates the effects of different timings on power system output
TowerPro 3520-6 #1 Motor Review - This is part of the review for the Sportsman Aviation Sport Stik 40 ARF Low Wing Review on RC Groups.
TowerPro 3520-6 #1 (second review) Motor Review - this is the second review of the same motor now being used in the Sports Aviation Ryan STA 40 ARF
TowerPro 3520-6 #2 part of the reivew of the Sportsman Aviation Sonic 500 25-46 ARF on RC Groups. Also contains a review of the Jeti Spin 44 ESC and Spinbox programmer.
TowerPro 3520-7 Motor Review

Introduction

     All motors and cell chemistries can be used in a myriad of ways to power model aircraft. No one way is more correct than another, as long as it works as desired in the application!
     The type of plane being exemplified here, non-3D aerobatic sport and sport scale, is NOT the extremely popular park flyer. The type of RC, prop driven, plane being described here is typically seen "mixing it up" with glow and gas powered planes at the local RC flying field. It is capable of taking off and landing on the grass of a RC club field.

A123 Cells
By Ken Myers
February 2008

Background on Cylindrical Cell Sizing

     There are standards in Lithium based cylindrical cell sizing that are important to know about. There are many different Lithium based rechargeable (secondary) chemistries used in cylindrical cells.
     Many folks are familiar with Ni-Cad (nickel cadmium) and NiMH (nickel metal hydride) cells. Their sizes are commonly referred to with nomenclature such as AAA (triple A), AA (double A), 2/3A, 4/5A, 1/2SC (sub-C) 4/5SC (sub-C), SC (sub-C), C, D, etc. These size designations don't really tell us much about the cell's actual size, except that we are familiar with AAA (triple A), AA (double A), C and D type non-rechargeable (primary) cells that we use in a lot of our portable electronic devices.
     There are several different "Lithium" chemistries that come in cylindrical cells. Their manufactures specify the size in a different way. They use a number such as 26650 or 18650. While at first glance the designations may seem more confusing, these are actually much more useful designations. The first two digits to the far left in the "designation" indicate the approximate diameter of the cell in mm, therefore a 26650 cell has about a 26mm diameter and an 18650 cell has a diameter of about 18mm. The third and fourth digits from the left indicate the approximate length in millimeters. Both of the example cells would be about 65mm long. At this time I am unable to determine what the fifth digit from the left means.
     Using this numbering system, a sub-C Ni-Cad or NiMH might be a 23430 and an AA would be a 14500, just to show how it works. I'm not sure whether those numbers would be "exactly" correct. They are just being used to show how the system works.
     For those who think in Imperial units;
18mm = 0.708661 in. or between 11/16" & 3/4"
26mm = 1.02362 in. or just over 1"
65mm = 2.55905 in. or about 2 9/16"

The Lithium Iron Phosphate Cells from A123 Systems, Inc.

     I have personally used the ANR26650M1 cells produced for A123 Systems, Inc. for about eighteen months. Besides my personal experience, I owe a HUGE thanks to Charles of Haralson County, GA who is known as everydayflyer on RC Groups. He got me interested in these cells and has been a great contributor to the knowledge base about these cells on RC Groups.
     There is no such thing as an A123 cell. What have been most typically called A123 cells are a form of a lithium iron phosphate cell developed at the University of Texas. Yet-Ming Chiang, at MIT, is said to have improved the cathode for this type of cell for better power delivery and A123 Systems, Inc. holds the patent (currently in dispute) for this improved technology. There are two different cell sizes that are being used in R/C planes as a power source for electric motors.

A123 Systems Inc.
1 Kingsbury Ave.
Watertown, MA 02472
www.a123systems.com Feb. 21, 2008 DeWALT/Black & Decker references no longer appear on this site.
(617) 778-5700

and

A123 Racing (appears to be a division of the above)
12 Avenue E.
Hopkinton, Ma 01748
www.a123racing.com
is marketing the 2300mAh cell to the R/C car community.

The Cells Being Used by R/C Fliers:

ANR26650M1 (2300mAh)
Source:
www.a123racing.com/SpecSheets/A123FAQ.pdf
Dimensions: diameter - 25.85mm or 26.62 w/sleeve; length - 65.15mm (~1" x 2 9/16")
Weight: 70g or w/sleeve and tab 72.55g (note: I weighed with sleeve and tab) (~2.5 oz.)
Nominal Capacity: 2.3Ah/2300mAh
Nominal Voltage: 3.3V
Recommended pulse charge: 3.8V
Recommended discharge cutoff: 1.6V
Maximum continuous discharge: 70A (note: that is ~30C)

APR18650M1 (1100mAh)
Source: www.elektromodely.sk/A123/APR18650M1_2007-05.pdf
Dimensions: diameter - ~18mm; length - ~65mm (~3/4" x 2 9/16")
Weight: ~40g (~1.5 oz.)
Nominal Capacity: 1.1Ah/1100mAh
Nominal Voltage: 3.3V
Recommended Charge Voltage: 3.6V
Recommended Cutoff Voltage: 2.0V
Maximum continuous discharge: 30A (note: that is ~27C)

Common Names

ANR26650M1; A123 cells, M1 cells, DEWALT 36V cells [DC9360 10-cell], DEWALT 28V [DC9280 8-cell], DEWALT Lithium cells, DEWALT 18V [DC9180 5-cell, probably]
APR18650M1; Black & Decker VPX, VPX cells, smaller A123's

Information from the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) at A123 Racing
Summarized, paraphrased and annotated from: www.a123racing.com/SpecSheets/A123FAQ.pdf
This information applies specifically to the ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells but can be generalized to the APR18650M1 1100mAh cells.

1.) The cell is cylindrical in an aluminum canister. It has a nominal voltage of 3.3V and a charge voltage of 3.6V. It has a capacity of 2300mAh, and is capable of 30C (69A) continuous discharges and 60C (138A) pulse (10 second) discharges. Each cell weighs 70 grams (2.47 oz). (See specific notes about the APR18650M1)

2.) A special electronic speed controller (ESC) is not needed to run these batteries. The low voltage cutoff should be set to 2.0V per cell or it can be turned off. (KM Note: It is best to fly timed flights with these cells. There is no knee to warn of lowering power. It's a "cliff" and it drops off "right now!")

3.) There are no special instructions for protection during use or charging. Treat it as you would any other battery.

4.) Balancing is an important precaution when using Lithium batteries. Batteries made up of these cells are not as prone to as much individual cell voltage variance as other batteries, but balancing keeps the pack in good health and ensures maximum cycles.

5.) Voltage sag is how much the voltage drops during the course of a discharge. A Nickel Metal battery's voltage sags throughout the complete discharge. A Nickel Metal battery is only operating at full performance for part of the discharge. The batteries being produced by A123 Systems, Inc. show very little voltage sag during the discharge. (KM Note: until the "bottom drops out" at the end)

6.) These batteries have the fastest charge time for any RC battery. They can be charged to full capacity in 15 minutes or less with a charger capable of providing the input amperage and voltage. Charging at these high rates seems to have no effect on the cycle life of the pack.

7.) These batteries are very safe, and abuse tolerant. They have many safety advantages over Lithium Polymer batteries.
     a.) They are not prone to thermal runaway, which is the leading cause of fire in a Li-Po battery.
     b.) They will tolerate some amount of over voltage before failing. These batteries should be charged to 3.6V/3.7V per cell.
     c.) They will tolerate a charge of up to 4.2V per cell with little damage. Charging to 4.2V per cell repeatedly will have negative effects on the pack. Repeated abuse will yield a much lower cycle life, and can result in pack failure.
     d.) They will also tolerate over discharge. A cutoff voltage of 2.0V per cell is recommended, but these cells will charge up even if discharged to as low as 1.50V per cell. As with over charging, it is not recommended to repeatedly discharge below 2.0V per cell, as it will affect the cycle life and could cause pack failure.
     e.) These cells are manufactured with a Laser welded aluminum canister. This helps to prevent damage from physical abuse such as dropping or crashing them. Even with this protective canister care should be taken when handling and using any battery.

8.) These batteries can be stored at any state of charge for short periods of time 3-5 days. They can also be stored safely for long periods of time. At a 50% to 100% state of charge, the batteries can be stored for 6 months. They can be stored for up to 24 months if they are charged to 100% state of charge beforehand.

9.) Up to 1000 cycles can be expected before reaching 75% capacity. In an average RC application, expect to see over 300 cycles before noticing any change in the battery pack. (KM Note: This has been independently confirmed by several individuals.)

10.) The battery can be charged immediately after use.

My Personal Comments and Observations

     I am extremely pleased with the safety, performance, ease of care and charging, fast field charging time and longevity of the ANR26650M1 (2300mAh) cells, previously manufactured by China BAK for A123 Systems, Inc. It appears that Enerland Co., Ltd., which is now a division of A123 Systems, Inc., is now the manufacturer.
     I also like the fact that they may safely be charged in the plane. I am using battery packs consisting of ANR26650M1 (2300mAh) cells instead of large capacity Li-Po/Li-Poly (Lithium Polymer) batteries in my sport and sport scale planes. To understand how I arrived at this conclusion, read my article "Lithium Face Off: A Head-to-Head Comparison of Li-Po, M1/A123 & Emoli." (homepage.mac.com/kmyersefo/temperature.htm)
     I also like the shelf life of these cells. Like Li-Po cells, they will stay charged for a long time while just "sitting around", but unlike Li-Po cells, they do not seem to deteriorate as rapidly over time, loosing performance, as quickly as Li-Po cells.
     I am having great success using ANR26650M1 (2300mAh) cells at about a 35 amp static draw (about 15C) at wide-open throttle (WOT). Seven minute+ flights are the norm for my sport planes using packs made up of these cells. The recharge time, using my Astro Flight 109 charger (unmodified, when charging my 6-cell packs at 7.45 amps [~3.2C]), is between 18 minutes and 22 minutes. The charge time would be shorter if I could get the amps higher! The cells can handle being charged at a much higher rate. The limiting factor in fast charging these cells is the ability of the "charger" to charge at a higher rate.
     The voltage, from the pack into the electronic speed control (ESC), using about a 35 amp static load, averages about 2.85v per cell. When used in this way, a single cell equals about 100 watts in (2.85v * 35 amps = 99.75 watts). Don't confuse watts in (a power in rating) with watts out (a power out rating).
     Powering a sport or sport scale plane at about 100 watts in per pound (1 lb. = 453.592g) usually yields a plane that will give no quarter to the majority of glow and gas powered planes flying at the local R/C flying field.
     To simplify the process, is the reason I have chosen to use the ANR26650M1 (2300mAh) cells at the "fixed" 100 watts in per cell level. The ANR26650M1 (2300mAh) cells can certainly be used at much higher and somewhat lower watts in per cell quite effectively.
     Personally, I have found that using them in the 35-amp static draw area gives me the flight time and power I desire for very good performance.
     I have not used the APR18650M1 1100mAh cells, but from the discharge graphs I have seen, they seem to be best used in the 35 watts in to 40 watts in per cell range. This is only speculation on my part at this time.

Cell Sources & Obtaining Packs

     At this time, April 2008, the cells are available from many sources.
     For a long time, the least expensive way to purchase the 2300mAh cells was as a DEWALT DC9360 36v 10-cell power tool pack from a source on ebay. I purchased two of these 10-cell packs, at different times, from Cool Breeze Tools for about $100 each, delivered in 2007. They are now up to the $150 range, delivered.
     Pricing Update: For several months the delivered price on ebay has been about $15 a cell. There are less DeWalt DC9360 packs being sold on ebay, with usually less than ten packs a day.
     With the prices for the DEWALT DC9360 10-cell packs steadily rising, they are almost to the point where purchasing single cells is an option. Single cells do require a little different technique than the "tabbed" cells from the DEWALT packs whose information follows. You'll find a "how to" for single, non-tabbed cells at media.hyperion.hk/dn/a123/packassy/A123packassy.pdf.
     Dismantling the DeWALT power tool packs and harvesting the cells is quite easy. This thread on RC Groups by Lucien Miller/aka LBMiller5 shows just how to do it. Mini-How To - Disassembly of a DeWALT 36v Battery. Lucien Miller also has an excellent How To Build a Battery Pack from A123 Cells.
     Sid Kaufman has figured out the "best way" to take these DeWALT packs apart and make various cell configurations for power packs using the cell interconnects already on the DeWALT pack. The interconnects on the DeWALT pack appear to work okay when used at about the 35 amp static draw being advocated here. Easy Packs from DeWALT 36V Packs (A123 Systems) by Sid Kaufman.

What's happened to the prices?
Updated June 26, 2008

     For a while the prices on individual cells was approaching what the cells were "costing" in DEWALT DC9360 packs on ebay. It appears that the supply of DEWALT DC9360 packs is drying up on ebay, and they are now pretty much in the $160 to $170 range with shipping. Meanwhile, A123 Racing, the supplier of the cells to our suppliers has threatened our suppliers with a notice to cut off their supply if they do not use MAP (manufacturer's advertised pricing). In other words, price fixing is in affect on these cells. It is NOT our suppliers' fault!

     Sources for individual cells and packs are listed below.

Pricing as of July 5, 2008
Cell mAhLinkPrice per
cell US$
Notes:
1100http://www.battlepack.com/A123.asp$12.00Individual cell price
1100http://www.radicalrc.com/shop/?shop=1&cart=1860515&cat=199&$13.00Individual cell price
1100http://aircraft-world.com/shopexd.asp?id=5230$12.50Individual cell price
1100http://www.hobbycity.com/hobbycity/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=6563$13.50Individual cell price
1100http://www.battlepack.com/LiFEPO4.asp$13.60Price per cell in packs w/balance taps
1100www.tanicpacks.com/index.php?cPath=111_120_159&osCsid=4b3e05206997b0337da5f284dad62aed$12.49 - $14.98Price per cell in packs w/balance taps
Search for 1100mAh
2S thru 4S only
1100http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=7081184$9.94There are the 2-cell Black & Decker VPX packs
They need to be taken apart to get the cells.
Packs must be made with leads and taps added.
2300http://www.battlepack.com/A123.asp$16.50Individual cell price
includs node connector & shrik wrap
2300http://www.radicalrc.com/shop/?shop=1&cart=1860515&cat=199&$14.50Individual cell price
2300http://www.modelelectronicscorp.com/view_products.php?tid=2&stid=5$16.50Individual cell price
2300https://www.tanicpacks.com/product_info.php?products_id=932&osCsid=51c8832d962a58a1384e13b36c0cc51f$16.50Individual cell price
2300http://aircraft-world.com/shopexd.asp?id=5041$16.50Individual cell price
2300http://www.hobbycity.com/hobbycity/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=6444$17.00Individual cell price
2300http://www.cheapbatterypacks.com/main.asp?sid=1062015&pgid=showlipos&man=A123&cat=A2200$16.50Individual cell price
2300http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=AQR400140$19.95Individual cell price
2300http://www.maxamps.com/products.php?cat=62$22.50Individual cell price
if purchased as 4 cell
Developer's kit
2300www.battlepack.com/LiFEPO4.asp$19.60Price per cell in packs w/balance taps
2300http://www.modelelectronicscorp.com/view_products.php?tid=1&stid=2$16.50 - $17.50In solderless power tubes, no taps
2300www.tanicpacks.com/index.php?cPath=111_120&osCsid=fe35bac3c8f038d277c0c8e383329d89$22.00 - $26.98Pack prices w/taps.
Search for A123.
2300http://www.horizonhobby.com$28.35 - $28.50Pack prices w/taps.
Search for A123.
2-cell & 3-cell packs only.
2300http://www.maxamps.com/products.php?cat=62$26.25 - $30.00Pack prices w/taps.
2300http://www.cheapbatterypacks.com/main.asp?sid=1062015&pgid=showlipos&man=A123&cat=A2200$25.00Pack prices w/taps.
DEWALT DC9360 10-cell Packs
2300http://www.ebay.com$15.80June 25, 2008 shipped
Reflects best price.
2300http://www.pricegrabber.com$15.93June 26, 2008 shipped.
2300http://www.amazon.com$15.49June 26, 2008 shipped.

Important Note: the "button" end of the ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells is the NEGATIVE!

Charging Packs

     Unlike Li-Po and Emoli cells (another type of "cased" Lithium based cell), which have a termination voltage of 4.2v, the cells from A123 Racing have a termination voltage of 3.6v or 3.7v and need to be charged to that termination voltage. If you already have a NiCad/NiMH or Li-Po charger, Sid Kaufman has an adapter to be used with those types of chargers for charging these cells. He calls it the "Dapter". To find out if your charger will work with the "Dapter", visit this page - Newly Improved! Dapter (a.k.a. LiPoDapter+).
     If you do not already have a charger, I recommend the Astro Flight Lithium Ion Charger for A123 Cells or the Tejera Microsystems Engineering, Inc./TME Xtrema. The Xtrema charger also has the capability to be an in-line power meter. Both chargers can charge up to 10-cell packs from a 12v DC source like a Marine/RV deep cycle battery or power supply.
     If you already have an Astro Flight 109 Li-Po charger, you may purchase a new chip from Astro Flight. It is called the upgrade micro chip for model 123 Lithium Ion Charger. Replacing the original Li-Po chip with the new chip modifies the charger for ANR26650M1 (2300mAh) and APR18650M1 (1100mAh) cell use only. If you wish to be able to charge both Li-Po and these types of cells with your AF 109 then you can use this thread to modify your AF 109 - AF109 hardware hack to charge A123 cells by Pat Mackenzie.
     The Hyperion EOS 1210i revision A is said to be able to do 12 of these cells. The power limit for this charger is 180W so it might be able to charge a 12S pack of these cells at about 4 amps and a 10S ANR26650M1 2300mAh pack at not quite 5 amps.

For the fastest possible charging

     IMPORTANT NOTE! The following methods are only for those who know what they are doing. Misuse can result in personal and property damage!

     These cells may also be charged using a power supply such as the MASTECH HY3020E or MASTECH HY5020E.
     For field charging a small, 1200W or 1250W, generator may be used to power the power supply. Also, several Marine/RV deep cycle batteries may be used with an inverter that changes the DC input to AC output for use by the power supply.

     For cell combinations where the pack can be broken into three cells groups for charging (i.e. 3, 6, 9, 12 etc.), a Marine/RV deep cycle battery or two in parallel, to increase the capacity NOT the voltage, may be used to directly charge the 3-cell pack(s) from the Marine/RV deep cycle. A How-To for a 3S pack may be found here. If you understand this set up, then even greater numbers of these "3-cell" packs can be done.
     I have also used this "Zip Charge" method. My experiences are in this article.

Balancing The Cells

     One of the big advantages of these cells is that they are very robust and seem to withstand over-charging and over-discharging quite well. They do not seem to need as much balancing as Li-Po packs, but it appears to be a good idea to have balancing leads on them and balance the pack(s) on occasion using the Astro Flight "Blinky" Battery Balancer for A123 Cells. Here is a thread on RC Groups about balancing these packs - Yet another A123 Thread / Balancing, is it necessary?

More Good Information About These Cells

     As mentioned before, everydayflyer is an excellent resource for information about these cells. Here is a post that contains links to just about everything you might want to know about these cells.

     David Theunissen, of the UK, has more useful information here.

Lithium iron phosphate battery (Summary)

Recommended background reading on the lithium iron phosphate battery (LiFePO4) for the type these cells belong in.

Quoted and paraphrased from the above source:

1.) LiFePO4 was developed by John Goodenough's research group at the University of Texas in 1997.

2.) In 2002, Yet-Ming Chiang and his coworkers at MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) reported that they had successfully doped the cathode with appropriate cations1 - such as aluminum, niobium, and zirconium allowing development to move forward. Products using the doped nanophosphate materials developed by Prof. Chiang are now in high volume mass production by A123Systems and are in use in industrial volumes by major corporations including Black and Decker, DeWALT, General Motors, Daimler, Cessna and BAE Systems among others.

     1. Cations (cat-eye-ons) are positively charged ions. Cations have fewer electrons than protons.

Rumors and Other Stuff That May Affect the Availability and Pricing of These Cells

     There has been ongoing litigation between the University of Texas, MIT and A123 Systems, Inc. about patent issues regarding these cells.

     Rick Page of Victoria, BC Canada posted some interesting information on RC Groups.

"A123 says they are producing batteries at their own plants now, but because of the continuing legal actions they are not being more specific.

BAK indicated that they may use their A123 tooling with Phostech electrodes to make an A123 substitute but only time will tell.

All of which should be very worrisome for A123 investors. The industry seems to have decided that their patent may be invalid. The reason for the A123 high current advantage that was stated in the patent has now turned out to be incorrect and their patent may infringe on the one originally issued to U of Texas and now held by Phostech.

Rick."

And

"This is some of what BAK disclosed for their reasons to terminate their contract with A123. BAK is 'the Company'.

Quote:
The agreement with A123Systems, Inc., under which the Company agrees to manufacture products for A123Systems, Inc. according to the specifications furnished by, and using the finished electrodes and other materials consigned by, A123Systems, Inc. to the Company, had terminated on August 30, 2007.
On September 12, 2006, Hydro-Quebec, a Canadian company, and the Board of Regents of the University of Texas System brought a federal patent infringement suit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas against the Company. The Company has an agreement with A123Systems, Inc., under which the Company agrees to manufacture products for A123Systems, Inc. according to the specifications furnished by, and using the finished electrodes and other materials consigned by, A123Systems, Inc. to the Company. The plaintiffs alleged that by manufacturing rechargeable lithium cells for one of the Company's customers, A123Systems, Inc., for use in DeWALT 36-volt cordless power tools manufactured by Black & Decker Corporation, the Company has infringed two U.S. patents owned by and exclusively licensed to the plaintiffs. The plaintiffs seek injunctive relief and damages in an unspecified amount. If the court issues an adverse decision, the Company may be required to pay the plaintiffs substantial monetary damages. The court has not yet issued a decision on this matter and the Company is unable to quantify the extent of any possible award of damages that might become payable by the Company.

Rick"

Also:

     On February 6, 2008, I was made aware that A123 Systems, Inc. had purchased Enerland Co., Ltd of Korea. Enerland, the manufacturer of extremely high quality Li-Po cells used in Polyquest batteries, FlightPower EVO batteries and more, is now a division of A123 Systems, Inc. and is sharing marketing with the A123 Racing division. My research on the Internet showed that the acquisition was completed in August of 2007. This most likely explains who has been manufacturing the cells since China BAK backed out their deal with A123 Systems, Inc.
     FlightPower has also become a share holder in A123 Systems, Inc., Feb. 21, 2008 www.flightpowerusa.com/News/open_article.asp?articleNo=547&parent=front.

     What this all means to us, I am not sure at this time. It seems that the DeWALT packs have been increasing in price on ebay, which may indicate that the supply is getting shorter or that the manufacturing costs have risen. What is actually happening at this time is unknown.

March 16 - GE buys into A123 Systems, Inc.
venturebeat.com/2008/03/05/ge-invests-in-think-electric-car-and-a123

CHRIS MORRISON | MARCH 5TH, 2008

     In two connected investments, General Electric has put $4 million into Think, a Norwegian electric car manufacturer, and $20 million into A123 Systems, which manufactures batteries that are used in the cars.

     Both companies are already well funded. Think has taken over $80 million to date and A123 has topped $150 million (past coverage here). The new investment by GE makes it the single largest shareholder in the latter company.

     A123 is also planning an IPO sometime in the next year, and Think is preparing to roll out the Think City in Europe.

The Drawbacks to Using LiFePO4 Cells

1.) Duration: Flight times for the 2300mAh cell are good (~ 7 minutes), and about equivalent to a 20C 2700mAh Li-Po, which they no longer seem to produce. Most manufacturers are now jumping from a 20C 2500mAh to a 20C 3300mAh Li-Po cell.

2.) Weight: A 6-cell pack made up of ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells weighs a bit over 17 oz. with wiring and connectors. A 5-cell 2500mAh 20C Li-Po (~$148) (equivalent voltage to a 6-cell pack made up of ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells) weighs about 11.3 oz. and flies for about the same duration. A 5S1P 20C 3300mAh Li-Po (~$178) weighs about 14.8 oz. but has about 440 usable mAh, or about a minute and a half longer flight time based on the 35-amp static draw that I have recommended. All flight times will vary, as the pilot's skill, aircraft's task and RTF weight varies.

3.) Form factor: There are times when it is much easier to get the basically low-profile brick type form factor of a Li-Po pack to fit well into a given plane.

4.) Easy Availability of Li-Po packs: The availability of pre-made Li-Po packs, to power our electrically powered models, is extremely high with many mAh capacities, power ratings and physical form factor choices. They come ready to use.

5.) Ease of charging: With the very large number of Li-Po packs being sold, finding a charger is much easier for Li-Po cells, as well as Nickel type packs.

6.) Ease of motor selection: A majority of power systems, recommended for todayÕs aircraft, are based on Li-Po use and require some serious rethinking when using the cells from A123 Systems, Inc.

7.) Cell voltage difference: Because the single cell voltage of LiFePO4 is quite different from Nickel based cells and Li-Po cells, direct conversion in existing systems is sometimes difficult.

The Plane

     Using 100 watts in per cell makes figuring the completed, ready to fly (RTF) target weight very easy. A two pound (32 oz./900g) plane, 2 cells, a three pound (48 oz./1350g) plane 3 cells, etc.
     Using the tables presented here will allow the average modeler to create these types of planes. The tables makes selecting the appropriate power components somewhat easier.

The Battery Pack

     Table 1 shows the anticipated battery weight including balance leads and plugs, power leads and connectors, shrink-wrap or equivalent tape and Velcro for two-cell through ten-cell packs of ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells.
     It is not really necessary to know the weight of the pack when selecting the appropriate power system components (motor/prop/ESC) and airframe, but the table gives a realistic idea of how much these cells weigh when configured into packs.
     A single ANR26650M1 2300mAh cell has a diameter of 1.045 inches (26.5mm) and length of 2.6 inches (66mm).
     In the USA, pieces of 1-inch diameter wooden dowel rod can be cut to the appropiate length and then taped together to form a dummy pack to try different cell configurations in a given project to see what pack configuration will fit best into the desired location in the plane.
View Table 1

Maximum Completed Airframe Weight

     The Maximum Completed Airframe (MCA) weight is the key element when selecting an appropriate power system. Tables 2 and 2a show MCA weights and suggested wing area ranges for two through ten cell packs to be used for sport and sport scale planes. As always, there are a lot of exceptions, but in general, these numbers work relatively well for prop driven sport and sport scale aircraft.
     The Maximum Completed Airframe (MCA) weight includes everything that is not part of the onboard radio system and its installation weights and the motor and battery components and their installation weights.
     The suggested wing area range is based on typical cubic wing loadings (CWL) for these types of aircraft. Both somewhat larger and smaller wing areas may also be used successfully.
     The MCA weight, with its resulting RTF target weight, is the primary determinate in selecting the most appropriate number of cells with the wing area being a secondary consideration.

Determining the MCA Weight of a Model

     If you already have an Almost Ready to Fly (ARF) model kit, it is quite easy to determine the MCA weight and the resulting RTF target weight. Weigh all of the parts that make up the airframe including the landing gear and wheels to be used. Add the parts' weights and you have a number close enough to use for the MCA weight.
     If you already have a builder's kit onhand, weigh all of the parts for the airframe, the plans and don't forget the landing gear (main, nose or tail) and wheels to be used. Add them together, and it should yield a reasonably close MCA weight.
     When doing a glow conversion, if you don't have the airframe at hand, a best guess estimate for the MCA weight would be about 60% of the highest advertised weight. If you can find a review of the plane, the weights of the actual components the reviewer used could be subtracted from the total weight to give an approximate MCA weight.
    Another way to estimate what the RTF target weight of a glow conversion, without using the MCA weight, might be is to increase the highest advertised weight by 15%. To do that, multiply the highest advertised RTF weight by 1.176. Use that as the RTF target weight for figuring the number of cells. The MAC weight then becomes unnecessary, but can be estimated at 1/2 the RTF target weight.
     There are not a lot of sport and sport scale planes designed for electric power systems. Many of those that are available are also designed for 3D aerobatics. These tend to be quite light in structure. Since Li-Po cells are usually recommended for these planes, increase the highest advertised weight by 10% (multiply by 1.111) to derive a RTF target weight for selecting the number of ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells.

Determining the Wing Area

     Many manufactures and suppilers provide the wing area, but then again, many don't. Some who do supply this information don't get it right. When the plane is available, measure and compute the wing area. If the plane is not physically present, you'll have to rely on manufacturer/supplier data.

View Tables 2 & 2a

Simplified RTF Target Weight

     A quick look at Table 2 shows that the MCA weight is approximately 1/2 the RTF target weight. Simply double the MCA weight for the approximate RTF target weight. Use the approximate RTF target weight, in pounds, as a guide for the selecting the number of ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells to use for the project. Round up the number of required cells when the RTF target weight, in pounds, includes a decimal greater than .45.

Onboard Radio System (ORS) Weight

     I have found that, on average, for these types of planes, the onboard radio system weight is about 12.5% of the RTF target weight. The ORS weight may include the radio receiver, switch harness, Electronic Speed Control (ESC) with or without a Battery Eliminator Circuit (BEC), servos, servo extensions, push rods, control horns, plywood used to mount the servos, onboard receiver battery or switching BEC for planes with a cell count over 3, or any parts of the radio control system.
     It is not necessary to know the Onboard Radio System (ORS) weight for selecting a power system, but here is a table that gives an idea of the ORS weight for reference.
     The actual ORS parts used depend on the individual plane. Here are some typical examples for ORS components.
     Sometimes, as is the case with many ARF type planes, the servo mounting plywood will be installed in the airframe. It does not make much of a difference when determining the MCA weight and resulting RTF target weight.
Return to MCA weight section

Beginning the Motor Selection Process

     The first step in selecting an appropriate motor and prop combination is to figure out what props match the airframe and its mission, in this case, sport and sport scale non-3D aerobatic flying. There are many props available from various manufacturers and suppliers. Again, to keep it simple, I use only APC props. I do not use the SF (slow fly) or Pylon props as they are inappropriate for this type of flying. APC props may or may not be the best for a particular application, but they are readily available and work well in most cases.

Prop Diameter

     For Sport and Sport Scale planes I recommend a prop disk loading (PDL) of between 75 oz./sq.ft. of prop disk area and 120 oz./sq.ft. of prop disk area. To simplify this process I have a created a table of prop diameter sizes for each ANR26650M1 2300mAh cell count. Recommended prop diameter table
     Larger prop diameters are more efficient. Sometimes it is necessary to limit the prop diameter because of landing gear considerations. Whenever possible, use the largest prop diameter the airframe can accommodate with a pitch and RPM combination that will allow at least the minimum recommended pitch speed to be reached.

Prop Pitch, Pitch Speed & Minimum RPM

     In general, typical sport/sport scale planes have a pitch speed ((RPM * pitch in inches)/1056) between 50 mph (80.5km/hr) and 70 mph (112.5km/hr). Using the stall speed and 3.5 times the stall speed, I have created tables that show possible APC props and the minimum required RPM for the appropriate pitch speed for each ANR26650M1 2300mAh cell count and matching airframe combination.
     To learn more about estimating the stall speed and why 3.5 times the stall speed was used to create the tables, read Keith Shaw's ground breaking "Electric Sport Scale" article from the July 1987 Model Builder magazine. It's the granddaddy of all electric flight articles by Keith Shaw. This is the one everyone STILL references to build great electric planes of all kinds.
     WARNING! Do NOT assume that just any of the listed props will work! The target static amp draw is around 35 amps. Always use an in-line power meter such as the Astro Flight Super Whattmeter, or similar device, to measure the actual amp draw. A tachometer will also be needed to measure RPM to calcualte the theoretical pitch speed. I use the Hyperion Emeter because it is both a tach and in-line power meter device with data logging. The Eagle Tree Systems MICROPOWER E-LOGGER & POWERPANEL is another good option, if you have a Windows OS laptop computer.
     When selecting different props to try with a given motor and number of cells, a good motor calcuation program like the FREE Drive Calculator, for Windows, Linux or the Mac operating systems, is ESSENTIAL to help to narrow down the appropriate 35ish amp draw possible prop choices. MotoCalc and ElectriCalc are commercial programs that run on Windows. There are also Web based calculators like the WebOCalc program. To run WebOCalc, click on Software in the menu of the site and then select the program.
     Use the computer software to suggest which props might be pulling 35ish amps static. Purchase a few of the suggested props. Start the static testing of your motor and props with the smallest diameter and pitch suggested by the computer program. USE YOUR IN-LINE POWER METER! Do NOT mount and run props without a power meter! Limit the time the motor is run "on the bench." Keep all bench running only to as long as necessary to collect the data you are seeking. Never run through a full pack on the ground just to see how long the motor will run! Do all prop testing in a safe area and wear protective eye and body equipment. Make sure others are not present in the testing area. Stay away from the front and sides of the prop arc. Always unplug the battery immediately after the data has been gathered. Remember that not all of the props listed will work! The goal is to achieve a motor and prop combination that will draw about 35 amps static on the chosen cell count.

Prop Tables

2 cell table
3 cell table
4 cell table
5 cell table
6 cell table
7 cell table
8 cell table
9 cell table
10 cell table

Selecting the Motor

     The manufacturers and suppliers do a terrible job at helping us to select an appropriate, suitable motor.
     Table 3 shows what I believe to be the appropriate "typical" weight range for brushless outrunner motors for sport and sport scale planes. It provides a starting point for selecting a motor for a given sport or sport scale project.
     The Weight Table was calculated using 1.5 watts in (the heaviest motor in a group) for each gram of motor weight and 3.0 watts in (the lightest motor in a group) for each gram of motor weight. I have read reviews where the reviewer has used between 3.5 and up to 4 or more, but for these types of planes, the motor ends up being too light and, it is being "worked too hard."
     It is not always "best" to use the lightest motor in a group of similar motors. A heavier motor will make balancing the plane easier and it will be "working" easier.
     The prop adapter, motor mount, prop, mounting hardware, etc. can add another 30% of the motor weight to the total installed motor weight for this type of project.
View Table 3

     Knowing the appropriate motor weight for the project is the first step in selecting an appropriate brushless outrunner motor. The second step is determining the appropriate motor Kv.
     I created a method to estimate the approximate appropriate Kv range. Once the motor weight and Kv have been determined, a motor can be selected that may work in the intended application. The process uses many steps to determine the Kv range. Included in the process are;
RTF weight
Wing Area
Stall speed
3.5 times the stall speed
Suggested Prop diameter
     The method uses suggested prop diameters based on prop disk loading and the required pitch speed. The required pitch speed is based on the stall speed to pitch speed ratio to match the pitch.
     Table 4 shows what I believe to be the appropriate prop diameter and Kv ranges for typical sport/sport scale planes for the number of ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells in the pack. Sometimes a slightly higher Kv or slightly lower Kv than recommended may be used in a specific pack size group. If real world testing shows that a motor is swinging an appropriate prop for a group at the required RPM, then that motor may be used in the group. One specific example is the HXT 42-60/06 (now known as the Turnigy TR 42-60C) in the 5S group, even though the Kv is lower than the recommended Kv for 5S packs. I've also identified a couple of TowerPro motors that also work "outside" the Kv group, because I have the data to make reasonably accurate predictons about their performance.

View Table 4

    The higher the Kv in a given range, the smaller the diameter the prop will have to be to be pulling only about 35 amps.
    It also may be necessary to use the next lower set of Kv numbers to get the larger diameter props to only pull about 35 amps, but then the RPM may be below the desired pitch speed.
    In the following tables, using Drive Calculator, I have suggested possible props that meet the diameter requirement and RPM required for the pitch speed when pulling about 35 amps at sea level and 17-deg C. The vast majority of motors are noted with no usable prop data available (NUPDA). This means that the manufacturer/supplier does not have sufficient data available to make a reasonable "guess" as to what prop might be used with any given number of ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells, or other cells for that matter.
    Caution: It is best not to choose a motor at either Kv extreme for a given cell count. If you already have one of the motors listed at the extreme, you might consider testing it, but may need a different motor. A motor with a Kv that is too low might require a prop with a diameter that will not work with the landing gear clearance for grass field take offs. A motor with a Kv that is too high might not be able to turn the minimum recommended prop diameter with the required pitch to meet the minimum pitch speed without going way over the 35 amp desired amp draw for this application.
    For an example of how I would go about selecting a motor for a proposed application, read Example 2 - A Proposed Application.

Specific Motor Suggestions for Using ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells
Showing 2-stroke & 4-stroke Glow Equivalents
For Comparison

2S Motor Suggestions
3S Motor Suggestions
4S Motor Suggestions
5S Motor Suggestions
6S Motor Suggestions
7S Motor Suggestions
8S Motor Suggestions
9S Motor Suggestions
10S Motor Suggestions

Example 1: Real World Application - Dymond RC Flite 40
By Ken Myers

(A Fully Detailed Review can be found on the RC Groups thread: www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=735972 KM)


Modified Dymond RC Flite 40

Step 1: Determine the MAC weight - All of the ARF kit parts that might be used in the conversion weighed a total of 1295.2g or 45.69 oz.
Step 2: Determine the Wing Area - The supplier chose not to publish this information. When the ARF kit arrived the wing area was measured and found to be 646 sq.in. or 41.68 dm^2, including the plastic wing tips.
Step 3: Determine the number of required ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells - 45.69 oz. * 2 = 91.4 oz. as the target RTF Weight. 91.4 oz. / 16 oz. = 5.7 lb. .7 is greater than .45, so the number of cells is rounded up to 6.
Step 4: Verify wing area Check Table 2 verify the wing area is in range for a 6 cell pack. Yes, wing area range for 6 cells is 590 sq.in. to 725 sq.in.
Step 5: Select Motor
    A. Determine the largest usable Prop diameter - I attached the landing gear and provided wheels onto the airframe and found that there was clearance for a 13-inch diameter prop. Larger wheels could also be used without the plane "looking too odd", therefore a 14-inch diameter prop is not out of the question.
    B. Select a motor from the 6S suggested motor table -
    This is the hard part! Using the 6S Suggested Motor Table limits the possible choices, but there are still 18 motors listed that might work in this application.
    If the plane has limited clearance for the prop, then the higher Kv motors in this range should be considered. Other than that, the choice almost becomes a "religious" issue. Since the manufacturers and suppliers do not provide much useful information, it is still very difficult to make a logical choice.
    In this group, I own and have both the most expensive AXI 4120/18 motor and the cheapest HXT 42-60/06 (now known as the Turnigy TR 42-60C) motor. In the section Watts In (power in), Watts Out (power out) and Efficiency I note the differences between using these two motors. Is it worth the $100USD difference? Only you can determine that.

How I made my decision

    I originally flew this plane with a TowerPro 3520-7 using an APC 12x7 sport prop and a 6S ANR26650M1 2300mAh pack. It was okay, but that motor is really "best" used with a 5S ANR26650M1 2300mAh pack. I wanted to go with a larger diameter prop for better prop efficiency. I didn't want to spend much. I chose the HXT 42-60/06 (now known as the Turnigy TR 42-60C) because it was the cheapest and I wanted to know if it was "adequate". It worked okay and allowed me to compare it to my AXI 4120/18, which I run wiith a 6S ANR26650M1 2300mAh pack in my Fusion sport plane.

Return to Table of Contents

Example 2: Proposed Application - 3S ANR26650M1 2300mAh Basic Sport Plane
By Ken Myers - 11/24/07


Outline of proposed plane

    The proposed model, by design, has 416.5 sq.in. of wing area and will be about 3 pounds or less, making it suitable for a 3S ANR26650M1 2300mAh pack. Since it is being specifically designed to use a 3S pack, it has ground clearance to use an 11-inch diameter prop. It will have a CWL of 9.75 oz./cu.ft. or less.
    Viewing the 3S motor table shows that I have found 19 possible motors that might work in this application.
    To start eliminating possible motors, I use the table to determine the Kv range for 11-inch diameter props including the NUPDA noted motors that fall within the range.
Kontronik Kora 15-12W, 150g, Kv 920, $127.00
E-flite Power 15, 152g, Kv 950, $79.99
Scorpion 3026-10, 191g, Kv 980, $69.90
Hacker A30-12L, 146g, Kv 1000, $84.99
Scorpion 3020-12, 157g, Kv 1088, $59.99
Hacker A30-8XL, 179g, Kv 1100, $89.99
AXI 2826/08, 181g, Kv 1130 $93.80
Kontronik Kora 15-10W, 150g, Kv 1133, $127.00
Hacker A30-10L, 146g, Kv 1185 $84.99
Scorpion 3014-16, 122g, Kv 1187, $49.99
    The field is now narrowed down to 10 possible motors.
    The two Kontronic Kora's are eliminated because of price and having to purchase them from Canada, as there is no USA distributor. The E-flite Power 15's and the Scorpion 3026-10's Kvs are so low that there is only one possible prop that might work with each one, so they are eliminated. The Scorpion 3014-16 is "light" for this purpose. It is a lot easier to move the battery pack towards the rear of the plane rather than towards the front, in most situations. That leaves the following five possible motors.
Hacker A30-12L, 146g, Kv 1000, $84.99
Scorpion 3020-12, 157g, Kv 1088, $59.99
Hacker A30-8XL, 179g, Kv 1100, $89.99
AXI 2826/08, 181g, Kv 1130 $93.80
Hacker A30-10L, 146g, Kv 1185 $84.99
    There is no usable prop data for the Hacker A30-12L and it also has a Kv that looks to be "out of range" when compared to the other four Kv numbers. The remaining motors are now arranged by price.
Scorpion 3020-12, 157g, Kv 1088, $59.99
Hacker A30-10L, 146g, Kv 1185 $84.99
Hacker A30-8XL, 179g, Kv 1100, $89.99
AXI 2826/08, 181g, Kv 1130 $93.80
    It is now a matter of personal choice. I would use the Scorpion, in this case, not because of price, but because I want to try one of these new motors. A "Hacker person" should probably use the A30-8XL for the added weight and lower Kv, that is, unless they already have the A30-10L, which they might try. The "AXI person" would obviously choose the AXI.

But what if the plane can only "clear" a 10-inch prop?

    The same process is used. Using the table, determine 10-inch prop appropitate motors by their Kv numbers including any NUPDA noted motors that fall within the Kv range.
Hacker A30-12L, 146g, Kv 1000, $84.99
Hacker A30-8XL, 179g, Kv 1100, $89.99
AXI 2826/08, 181g, Kv 1130 $93.80
Kontronik Kora 15-10W, 150g, Kv 1133, $127.00
Hacker A30-10L, 146g, Kv 1185 $84.99
Scorpion 3014-16, 122g, Kv 1187, $49.99
AXI 2820/10, 151g, Kv 1200, $85.60
Scorpion 3026-8, 190g, Kv 1212 $69.99
Turnigy 35-42B, 132g, Kv 1250, $25.20
Hyperion Z3019-10, 145g, Kv 1240, $74.95
Hyperion Z3025-6, 186g, Kv 1255, $79.99
    Eleven motors were found that might be of possible use. Now the process of elimination begins. The Kontronic is eliminated because of price and availability. The Scorpion 3014-16's and the Turnigy 35-42B's weight elinimates them for consideration. The Kv of the Hacker A30-12L falls well below the Kv of the other motors. The AXI 2826/08's Kv falls well below the other, better for swinging a larger prop. The list is now narrowed down to five motors, and again arranged by price.
Scorpion 3026-8, 190g, Kv 1212 $69.99
Hyperion Z3019-10, 145g, Kv 1240, $74.95
Hyperion Z3025-6, 186g, Kv 1255, $79.99
Hacker A30-10L, 146g, Kv 1185 $84.99
AXI 2820/10, 151g, Kv 1200, $85.60
    Again, it is a matter of personal preference. If I were to choose between the two Hyperions, I'd probably lean towards the Z3025-6 because of the added weight.
    Keep in mind that the 10-inch diameter props are a second choice over the 11-inch, but they will still work.

    If and when this plane gets off the drawing board, what am I really going to use? I already have a Hyperion Z3019-10 that is sitting in a drawer, therefore, I am creating this plane to use that motor. Ideally, I would use the Scorpion S3020-12, if I were purchasing a new motor for the project.

Return to Table of Contents or Return to article

Table 1 - Battery Weight
# ANR26650M1 2300mAhWeightWeight
Cellsoz.grams
25.70162
38.55242
411.40323
514.25404
617.10485
719.95566
822.80646
925.65727
1028.50808
Return to article

    I have gathered a lot of information about typical electrically powered sport and sport scale planes and have found the average CWL for sport/sport scale planes to be about 8.5 oz./cu.ft. and about 11.5 oz./cu.ft. for Advanced sport/sport scale planes. Those two numbers were used for the recommended wing area ranges in Table 2 and Table 2a.

Table 2 Imperial
# ANR26650M1 2300mAhMCAMin. WingMax. Wing
CellsWt. (oz.)area sq.in.area sq.in.
216.2285350
324.3375460
432.4450550
540.5525640
648.6590725
756.7650800
865.7715880
972.8775950
1081.08301020
Table 2a Metric
# ANR26650M1 2300mAhMCAMin. WingMax. Wing
CellsWt. (g)area dm^2area dm^2
245918.3922.58
368924.1929.68
491929.0335.48
5114833.8741.29
6137838.0646.77
7160741.9451.61
8186346.1356.77
9206450.0061.29
10229653.5565.81
Return to article

Table 3A - Onboard Radio System weights
# ANR26650M1 2300mAhWeightWeight
Cellsoz.g
24113
36170
48227
510283
612340
714397
816454
918510
1020567
Return to ORS weight section

Typrical Onboard Radio System (ORS) Components

    The following are some examples of typical ORS system components and their measured weights. The components listed are for example only. The builder of the model must determine which components are "correct" for the specific use and will be SAFE to use. DO NOT skimp on servo power!
    It is not necessary to use digital servos in these types of planes and may even be "undesirable" because of a digital servo's higher current draw.
    I have added a 5% Fudge Factor to allow for Velcro and added wood bits, plus the "stuff that just seems to creep in" and is unaccounted for.
    WARNING! I have not used Hitec HS-225 servos in planes with more than 6S ANR26650M1 2300mAh cells! Whether they are appropiate for 7S through 10S ANR26650M1 2300mAh applications, I have no personal knowledge. 7S and 8S ANR26650M1 2300mAh planes, powered this way, are about equivalent to a .46 to .52 2-stroke glow engine while the 9S and 10S ANR26650M1 2300mAh plaes are about equivlent to a .60 to .65 2-stroke glow engine. Select servos appropriately for those types of planes.

Typrical Onboard Radio System (ORS) Components
2 ANR26650M1 2300mAh cellsRecommended Maximum Weight: 4 oz.oz.
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 4L0.14
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-451.00
Servos:3 Hitec HS-85BB
Ailerons activated by a torque rod
2.19
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:Aileron Extension0.13
Control horns:2 small control horns/w screws0.10
Torque rods:3/32" strip aileron set0.55
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)1.50
Clevises:2 Nylon Clevises w/fuel tube0.04
Total:5.94
5% Fudge Factor6.25
Note:This weight might be ~19% of a 32 oz. (2 lb.) plane. Extreme care would be necessary in choosing the motor and airframe so as not to exceed the 2 lb. target weight.
* * * * *
3 ANR26650M1 2300mAh CellsRecommended Maximum Weight: 6 oz.oz.
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 4L0.14
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-451.00
Servos:3 Hitec HS-85BB
Ailerons activated by a torque rod
2.19
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:Aileron Extension0.13
Control horns:2 small control horns/w screws0.10
Torque rods:3/32" strip aileron set0.55
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)1.76
Clevises:2 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.04
Total:6.2
5% Fudge Factor6.52
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-451.00
Servos:4 Hitec HS-85BB
Separate servos in each wing half
2.92
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:2 Aileron Extensions0.25
External BEC:Castle Creations CC BEC0.40
Control horns:4 small control horns/w screws0.20
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)1.76
Push rods:2 6" metal pushrods (ailerons)0.22
Clevises:4 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.08
Total:7.46
5% Fudge Factor7.85
Note:Using torque rods might be a better choice.
* * * * *
4 ANR26650M1 2300mAh CellsRecommended Maximum Weight: 8 oz.oz.
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-451.00
Servos:3 Hitec HS-85BB
Ailerons activated by a torque rod
2.19
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:Aileron Extension0.13
External BECCastle Creations CC BEC0.40
Control horns:2 small control horns/w screws0.10
Torque rods:3/32" strip aileron set0.55
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)2.02
Clevises:2 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.04
Total:7.05
5% Fudge Factor7.42
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-451.00
Servos:4 Hitec HS-85BB
Separate servos in each wing half
2.92
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:2 Aileron Extensions0.25
Extension:"Y" harness0.24
External BEC:Castle Creations CC BEC0.40
Control horns:4 small control horns/w screws0.20
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)2.02
Push rods:2 6" metal pushrods (ailerons)0.22
Clevises:4 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.08
Total:7.96
5% Fudge Factor8.38
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-451.00
Servos:3 Hitec HS-85BB
Ailerons activated by a torque rod
2.19
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:Aileron Extension0.13
Switch:Switch harness0.40
Rx Pack:KAN Ni-MH 4.8V AAA 700mAh1.92
Control horns:2 small control horns/w screws0.10
Torque rods:3/32" strip aileron set0.55
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)2.02
Clevises:2 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.04
Total:8.97
5% Fudge Factor9.44
Note:Exceeds the recommended weight, but the "extra" battery weight might come in handy for balancing the model.
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-451.00
Servos:4 Hitec HS-85BB
Separate servos in each wing half
2.92
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:2 Aileron Extensions0.25
Extension:"Y" harness0.24
Switch:Switch harness0.40
Rx Pack:KAN Ni-MH 4.8V AAA 700mAh1.92
Control horns:4 small control horns/w screws0.20
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)2.02
Push rods:2 6" metal pushrods (ailerons)0.22
Clevises:4 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.08
Total:9.88
5% Fudge Factor10.40
Note:While this is quite a bit heavier than recommended, the "extra" battery weight or the Rx battery might come in handy for balancing the model.
* * * * *
5 or 6
ANR26650M1 2300mAh Cells
Recommended Maximum Weight:
5S 10 oz. - 6S 12 oz.
oz.
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-602.00
Servos:3 Hitec HS-85BB
Ailerons activated by a torque rod
2.19
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:Aileron Extension0.13
External BEC:Castle Creations CC BEC0.40
Control horns:2 small control horns/w screws0.10
Torque rods:3/32" strip aileron set0.55
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)2.28
Clevises:2 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.04
Total:8.31
5% Fudge Factor8.75
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-602.00
Servos:4 Hitec HS-85BB
Separate servos in each wing half
2.92
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:2 Aileron Extensions0.25
Extension:"Y" harnesses0.24
External
BEC:
Castle Creations CC BEC0.40
Control horns:4 small control horns/w screws0.20
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)2.28
Push rods:2 6" metal pushrods (ailerons)0.22
Clevises:4 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.08
Total:9.22
5% Fudge Factor9.70
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-602.00
Servos:3 Hitec HS-85BB2.19
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:Aileron Extension0.13
Switch:Switch harness0.40
Rx Pack:KAN Ni-MH 4.8V AAA 700mAh1.92
Control horns:2 small control horns/w screws0.10
Torque rods:3/32" strip aileron set0.55
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)2.28
Clevises:2 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.04
Total:10.23
5% Fudge Factor10.76
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-602.00
Servos:4 Hitec HS-85BB2.92
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:2 Aileron Extensions0.25
Extension:"Y" harness0.24
Switch:Switch harness0.40
Rx Pack:KAN Ni-MH 4.8V AAA 700mAh1.92
Control horns:4 small control horns/w screws0.20
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)2.28
Push rods:2 6" metal pushrods (ailerons)0.22
Clevises:4 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.08
Total:11.14
5% Fudge Factor11.72
* * * * *
7 or 8
ANR26650M1 2300mAh Cells
Recommended Maximum Weight:
7S 14 oz. - 8S 16 oz.
oz.
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-HV-451.90
Servos:3 Hitec HS-225BB3.15
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:Aileron Extension0.13
External
BEC:
Kool Systems 45V UBEC0.71
Control horns:2 small control horns/w screws0.10
Torque rods:3/32" strip aileron set0.55
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)3.07
Clevises:2 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.04
Total:10.26
5% Fudge Factor:10.80
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-HV-451.90
Servos:4 Hitec HS-225BB4.20
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:2 Aileron Extensions0.25
Extension:"Y" harness0.24
External
BEC:
Kool Systems 45V UBEC0.71
Control horns:4 small control horns/w screws0.20
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)3.07
Push rods:2 6" metal pushrods (ailerons)0.22
Clevises:4 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.08
Total:11.49
5% Fudge Factor:12.10
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-HV-451.90
Servos:3 Hitec HS-225BB3.15
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:Aileron Extension0.13
Switch:Switch harness0.40
Rx Pack:KAN Ni-MH 4.8V AA 1600mAh3.80
Control horns:2 small control horns/w screws0.10
Torque rods:3/32" strip aileron set0.55
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)3.07
Clevises:2 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.04
Total:13.76
5% Fudge Factor:14.48
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-HV-451.90
Servos:4 Hitec HS-255BB4.20
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:2 Aileron Extensions0.25
Extension:"Y" harness0.24
Switch:Switch harness0.40
Rx Pack:KAN Ni-MH 4.8V AA 1600mAh3.80
Control horns:4 small control horns/w screws0.20
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)3.07
Push rods:2 6" metal pushrods (ailerons)0.22
Clevises:4 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.08
Total:14.99
5% Fudge Factor:15.78
* * * * *
9 or 10
ANR26650M1 2300mAh Cells
Recommended Maximum Weight:
9S 18 oz. - 10S 20 oz.
oz.
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-HV-451.90
Servos:3 Hitec HS-225BB3.15
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:Aileron Extension0.13
External
BEC:
Kool Systems 45V UBEC0.71
Control horns:2 small control horns/w screws0.10
Torque rods:3/32" strip aileron set0.55
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)3.33
Clevises:2 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.04
Total:10.52
5% Fudge Factor:11.08
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-HV-451.90
Servos:4 Hitec HS-225BB4.20
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:2 Aileron Extensions0.25
Extension:"Y" harness0.24
External
BEC:
Kool Systems 45V UBEC0.71
Control horns:4 small control horns/w screws0.20
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)3.33
Push rods:2 6" metal pushrods (ailerons)0.22
Clevises:4 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.08
Total:11.75
5% Fudge Factor:12.37
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-HV-451.90
Servos:3 Hitec HS-225BB3.15
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:Aileron Extension0.13
Switch:Switch harness0.40
Rx Pack:KAN Ni-MH 4.8V AA 1600mAh3.80
Control horns:2 small control horns/w screws0.10
Torque rods:3/32" strip aileron set0.55
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)3.33
Clevises:2 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.04
Total:14.02
5% Fudge Factor:14.75
Receiver:Castle Creations Berg 7P0.33
ESC:Castle Creations Phoenix-HV-451.90
Servos:4 Hitec HS-255BB4.20
Connectors:5 Anderson Power Poles0.29
Extension:2 Aileron Extensions0.25
Extension:"Y" harness0.24
Switch:Switch harness0.40
Rx Pack:KAN Ni-MH 4.8V AA 1600mAh3.80
Control horns:4 small control horns/w screws0.20
Push rods:2 pushrods (rudder/elevator)3.33
Push rods:2 6" metal pushrods (ailerons)0.22
Clevises:4 Nylon Clevis w/fuel tube0.08
Total:15.25
5% Fudge Factor:16.05
Return to ArticleReturn to Appendix

Suggested Prop Diameters in Inches
# ANR26650M1 2300mAhMinimumMaximum
Cellsinchesinches
279
3911
41012
51114
61215
71316
8148
91519
101620
Return to article

Table 3
# ANR26650M1 2300mAhMin. MotorMax. MotorMin. MotorMax. Motor
CellsWeight gWeight gWeight oz.Weight oz.
2671332.34.7
31002003.57.1
41332674.79.4
51673335.911.8
62004007.014.1
72334678.216.5
82675339.418.8
930060010.521.2
1033366711.723.5
Return to article

Revised 12/01/07
Table 4
# ANR26650M1 2300mAhMax.Min.Min. Dia.Max. Dia.
CellsKvKvinchesinches
23200164079
31500920911
411007301012
57505151114
66004501215
74803801316
84003201418
93402701519
103002401620
Return to article

Possible APC props - 2 Cells
Stall Speed ~14 mph/Pitch Speed ~50 mph
PropsReq.
RPM
7x4 FF, 8x4 FF
8x4E
13091
9x4.5E11636
7x5E, 7x5 sport
8x5 sport, 9x5 FF
10473
8x6 CL, 8x6E
9x6E, 9x6 sport
8727
9x7 sport7481
9x7.5E6982
Return to article

Revised 03/09/08
2S Possible Motors - Glow Equivalent .10 - .13 2-stroke
Weight 67g-133gKv 1640-3200Prop Dia. 7"-9"
Brand/#Weight gKvPriceSourceNotes:
(*NUPDA - No Usable Prop Data Available)
DC - Trusted Drive Calculator
Derived Data
Hacker A20-6XL842500$69.99SourceNUPDA - This motor is "iffy" since the maximum current is 35 amps
AXI 2814-101061640$81.50Source9x7.5E, 32 amps, 7700 RPM
Kontronic Kora 10-10W1181750$109.00Source9x7.5E, 31 amps, 7700 RPM
Return to article

Revised 01/02/08
Possible APC props - 3 Cells
Stall Speed ~15 mph/Pitch Speed ~53 mph
PropsReq.
RPM
9x6E, 9x6 sport, 9.5x6 sport
10x6 sport, 10.5x6 sport, 11x6 sport
9337
9x7 sport, 10x7E, 10x7 sport
11x7 sport, 11x7E
8003
9x7.5E7470
9x8 sport, 10x8 sport, 11x8 sport, 11x8E7003
11x8.5E6591
10x9 sport, 11x9 sport6225
10x10E, 11x10E5600
Return to article

Revised 04/06/08
3S Possible Motors - Glow Equivalent .15 - .20 2-stroke
.20 - .27 4-stroke
Weight 100g-200gKv 920-1500Prop Dia. 9"-11"
Brand/#Weight gKvPriceSourceNotes:
(*NUPDA - No Usable Prop Data Available)
DC - Trusted Drive Calculator
Derived Data
Turnigy TR 35-42B1321250$25.20SourceNUPDA
Dualsky 3536CA-61031330$49.95SourceNUPDA - Must click on Brushless Motors in left menu, no direct link.
Scorpion 3014-161221187$49.99Source10x10E, 38 amps, 7250 RPM
10x9 sport, 34 amps, 7525 RPM
11x8E, 37 amps, 7300 RPM
11x8.5E, 35 amps, 7400 RPM
Scorpion 3020-121571088$59.99Source11x8E, 33 amps, 7260
11x8 sport, 34 amps, 7150
11x8.5E, 34 amps, 7200 RPM
*12x8E, 37 amps, 7040 RPM
Rimfire 35-48-13001701300$67.99SourceNUPDA
Scorpion 3026-81901212$69.99Source9x7.5E, 35 amps, 9200 RPM
9x8 sport, 33 amps, 9300 RPM
10x6 sport, 34 amps, 9275 RPM
10x7E, 39 amps, 8950 RPM
Scorpion 3026-10191980$69.99Source11x10E, 37 amps, 6600 RPM
Himax HC3516-13501341350$69.99SourceNUPDA, manual suggests that a generic 9x7 @ 8.6v would draw about 34 amps
Hyperion Z3019-10145*1240$74.95Source10x7E, 36 amps, 9020 RPM
9x7.5, 32 amps, 9080 RPM
*Mfg says Kv 1070
mine is as noted
E-flite Power 15152950$79.99Source11x10E, 33 amps, 6300 RPM
Hyperion Z3025-61861255$79.99Source10x6 sport, 37 amps, 9775 RPM
9x7.5, 38 amps, 9730 RPM
Hacker A30-10L1461185$84.99Source10x9 sport, 36 amps, 8000 RPM
10x8 sport, 38 amps, 8730 RPM
11x7E, 35 amps, 8000 RPM
or
10x9 sport, 34 amps, 7050 RPM
11x8.5E, 34 amps, 7000
Conflicting Data
Should still work
Hacker A30-12L1461000$84.99SourceNUPDA
AXI 2820/101511200$85.60Source10x9 sport, 36 amps, 7900 RPM
11x7E, 36 amps, 7950 RPM
or
10x7E, 33 amps, 9040 RPM
10x8 sport, 36 amps, 9000 RPM
Conflicting Data
Should still work
AXI 2820/81511500$85.60Source9x6E, 37 amps, 10465 RPM
Hacker A30-8XL1791100$89.99SourceNUPDA
AXI 2826/081811130$93.80Source11x8.5E, 38 amps, 7900 RPM
11x7E, 35 amps, 8025 RPM
10x9 sport, 36 amps, 8000 RPM
Kontronik Kora 15-10W1501133$127.00Source11x7E sport, 36 amps, 8000 RPM
10x9 sport, 37 amps, 7980 RPM
Kontronik Kora 15-12W150920$127.00Source11x10E, 36 amps, 6500 RPM
Return to articleReturn to 3S ANR26650M1 2300mAh Basic Example

Revised 12/01/07
Possible APC props - 4 Cells
Stall Speed ~16 mph/Pitch Speed ~56 mph
PropsReq.
RPM
10x6 sport, 10.5x6 sport, 11x6 sport
12x6 sport, 12x6E
9796
10x7 sport, 10x7E, 11x7 sport
11x7E, 12x7 sport
8397
10x8 sport, 11x8 sport, 11x8E
12x8 sport, 12x8E
7347
11x8.5E6915
11x9 sport, 12x9 pattern6531
11x10E, 12x10 pattern, 12x10E5878
Return to article

Revised 04/06/08
4S Possible Motors - Glow Equivalent .20 - .26 2-stroke
.27 - .35 4-stroke
Weight 133g-267gKv 730-1100Prop Dia. 10"-12"
Brand/#Weight gKvPriceSourceNotes:
(*NUPDA - No Usable Prop Data Available)
DC - Trusted Drive Calculator
Derived Data
TowerPro 3520-6262730$25.00 Source

Review #1

Review #1a

Review #2

12x10 pattern, 35 amps, 7350 RPM
12x10E , 39 amps, 6900 RPM
12x10E, 35 amps (my data), 7025 RPM
12x9 sport, 34 amps, 7350 RPM
12x8 sport, 36 amps, 7300 RPM
11x10E, 34 amps, 7050 RPM
KDA 36-10XL190900$31.20SourceNUPDA
Turnigy TR 50-45260890$35.95SourceNUPDA
Welgard C3548-05160939$59.95Source11x8.5E, 36 amps, 8100 RPM
11x8.5E (my data), 38 amps, 7900 RPM 11x8 sport, 38 amps, 7900 RPM
11x8E, 37 amps, 8000 RPM
11x7 sport, 37 amps, 8000 RPM
11x7E, 34 amps, 8300 RPM
10x9 sport, 34 amps, 8250 RPM
Scorpion S3020-121571088$59.99Source10x7 sport, 36 amps, 9850 RPM
10x7E, 38 amps, 9700 RPM
10x7E (mine), 38 amps, 9750 RPM
Scorpion S3020-14154944$59.99Source11x8.5E, 35 amps, 8250 RPM
11x8.5E (my data), 38 amps, 8050 RPM
11x8 sport, 38 amps, 8080 RPM
11x8E, 36 amps, 8170 RPM
11x7 sport, 36 amps, 8180 RPM
10x9 sport, 33 amps, 8400 RPM
Scorpion 3020-16154812$59.99SourceNUPDA
Dualsky 3542CA-6T137940$61.99SourceNUPDA - Use menu on Vampower site to locate motor
Skyshark Lightning 35156900$64.90SourceFrom prop data in specs, looks like should work
DualSky 3548CA-5T165850$65.99SourceNUPDA
Rimfire 35-48-850170850$67.99SourceNUPDA
Rimfire 35-48-10001701000$67.99SourceNUPDA
DualSky 4250CA-6T200840$67.99SourceNUPDA
Scorpion S3026-12191840$69.99Source12x8E, 37 amps, 7800 RPM
11x8.5 mine, 34 amps, 7900 RPM
11x8 sport, 34 amps, 7900 RPM
Scorpion S3026-10191980$69.99Source10x8 sport, 34 amps, 9300 RPM
Atlas 2927/08198910$71.20SourceNUPDA
Hyperion Z3019-12142900$74.95SourceNUPDA
E-flite Power 15152950$79.99