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Aerodynamic Effects of Top-Dressing Operations

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 July 2016

B. P. G. de Bray*
Affiliation:
Mechanical Engineering Department, Auckland University, New Zealand

Summary

Aerial top-dressing, or the spreading of inorganic fertilisers from aircraft, introduces stringent flying conditions at extremely low altitudes. During release of the fertiliser there are large load and centre-of-gravity changes, and aerodynamic effects the cause of which has hitherto been conjectural. The experiments described in this paper were aimed at obtaining a knowledge of the aerodynamic effects of the cloud of falling material beneath the plane, and the effects of air flow through the empty hopper. The implications upon aircraft design are discussed. The high accident rate experienced in this industry emphasises the necessity for the production of a suitable aircraft designed solely for top-dressing.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 1962

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References

1.Gibson, E. A. (1958). Aircraft in Agriculture. Journal of the Royal Aeronautical Society, June 1958.Google Scholar
2.Currie, M. M. (1960). Calculation of Trajectory Curves. N.R.C. of Canada. Report LR 277.Google Scholar