CT Grognard -> RE: Why can't I... (10/12/2011 3:15:51 PM)
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Erkki quote:
ORIGINAL: CT Grognard Well spotted, Puhis. In WITP-AE A6M3 is used to designate the Type 0 Model 32, and A6M3a is used to designate the Type 0 Model 22. The Model 32 changed from the Model 21 (the A6M2) by removing the folding wing-tips and introducing a two-speed supercharger for better altitude performance and a more powerful engine. It was heavier and longer due to the larger supercharger, this also resulted in a smaller main fuel tank (470 litres as opposed to 518). The change of the wings was significant enough that the Allies thought it was a new plane, which they nicknamed "Hamp". The wing changes led to better roll and the lower drag resulted in a higher diving speed of 420 mph, but maneuverability and lift were reduced as well as range. Because of the lack of folding wing-tips, it was not carrier-capable. The Model 22 was brought out to address these deficiencies, using the Model 21's folding wings and introducing new in-wing fuel tanks that took the internal fuel to 570 litres and brought back the lost range. The folding wings also made the A6M3a carrier-capable. If the folding wingtips were completely removed(ie. cut or "clipped" wings), wouldn't the M3 use as much deck space as M2? [&:] Also less wingspan --> better roll and roll is what Zero needed. My bet is on the Japanese not finding the range, without the wing fuel tanks of the M3a, good enough to install other carrier capability equipment, arrestor hook at least... Full length wings were most probably re-introduced to make carrier takeoffs and landings especially with full fuel and payload easier. Hi Erkki, I've gone to look at it - you're right, the wingspan on the AM3 was much shorter than the Model 21 and the Model 22 since the wings were clipped. One of the concerns was apparently that the roll rate was not as good as on Allied fighters at the time. I concede my comment was incorrect then that the lack of folding wing-tips was why it was not carrier-capable - your explanation makes much more sense.
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