I'm ready to run my static tubing but have run into some unanswered questions.
I like this method for clamping the static tubing:
But then I read a post from Walt that said this:
Then Walt said this but I haven't found the answer.
Has this been settled? As an aside,I can't find the -7 drawing that shows the metal clip and rivet as described in Walts edit.
I like this method for clamping the static tubing:
OK, so I see you have to link pictures from other sites. Here's a photo of how I use the mounting ties. Nothing special, but it is cheap, easy and fast.
But then I read a post from Walt that said this:
I always cringe when I see un-filled holes in primary structure (this includes any non-structural fastener like pop rivets or screws) unless the structure was designed with those holes.
If you don't have approval from engineering, I would refrain from randomly drilling holes in primary structure (which the longerons definately are)
Perhaps I missed where Van's has approved this on the prints somewhere or said it's ok?
Then Walt said this but I haven't found the answer.
I understand your rational, however, just because Van's sells conduit and you need to run some wires doesn't necessarily mean they are automatically giving you approval to drill holes for the conduit anywhere you feel like. I believe in the past I have seen approval for holes in bulkheads and ribs for just this purpose.
I may just send Van's an email and ask for some guidance on this to pass on to the group. I know in the world I grew up in, drilling holes in primary structure without some type of approval would get you in lots of hot water.
There are also levels of primary structure, some are more critical than others. The primary fore/aft longeron is likely a more critical part than a bulkhead or rib in this case. Would you drill a hole in your spar or motor mount because it was convenient to do so?
Edit: I just reviewed the RV7 drawing for attaching clips to the longeron for the static lines, Van's specifies using aluminum brackets attached with AD3 rivets. If they thought it was ok to just drill holes in the flange and use pop rivets or wire tyes they likely would have specified it that way.
Has this been settled? As an aside,I can't find the -7 drawing that shows the metal clip and rivet as described in Walts edit.
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