AVRO  C.30 A

Malcolm  Bullough's   unique model as reported in Radio Control Model World,  November 1996.


Editorial note:    We have no confirmation that this magnificent model has actually ever flown.    This model information is presented here because of its obvious technical accomplishment and and quality of workmanship.... jb



As quoted from this fine magazine:

Malcolm Bullough had brought along something completely different in the form of an Avro C3OA which is an autogyro and has a rotor diameter of  7’9"  at  1/5  scale and weighing  12 lb all up.     Malcolm had designed the aircraft himself and it features traditional built up construction for the wooden part with nylon and dope covering.     There is also quite a bit of aluminium panelling to the front of the fuselage as well.      Power is provided by a rather elderly HP 6I  2-stroke motor which has a power take - off from the back of the engine which is used via a clutch to bring the rotors up to flying speed prior to take-off.     With an autogyro the rotors are kept turning by the forward motion of the aircraft but it is a great advantage if they can be spun up to flying speed prior to take-off,   Once a suitable speed has been achieved,  power drive can be disengaged.     The HP 6I has a conventional propeller on the front of it which pulls the aircraft around.       Malcolm had also made a fully sprung undercarriage  and to say that there was considerable amount of engineering evident on this aircraft would be an understatement.     At the moment this aircraft is still very much in the development stage and when Malcolm attempted to take-off from the grass he had a little more angle of attack on the rotors than was desirable which had the unfortunate effect of removing one of the fins so the take-off attempt had to be aborted.     Apparently this resulted in very little damage so the aircraft will certainly be developed more.




The HP 6I  2-stroke provides power to drive the rotor prior to takeoff.     The transmission gearbox and clutch are visible in this photo along with the top of the working suspension for the undercarriage.

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rev..5-18-99...jb