Parachute Packing

Discussion about deployment systems including altimeters, timers, air speed flaps, servo systems, and chemical reactions.
Andrew Leigh
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Parachute Packing

Post by Andrew Leigh »

HI,

have had a look but can't seem to locate any subject matter.

What are the tricks of the trade when it comes to packing parchutes i.e. Tight, loose rolled up etc. etc.

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Andrew
SaskAlex
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by SaskAlex »

Well, it depends on some different factors. If your rocket flies really high, you can pack your parachute tighter because it will have more time to open up. If it doesn't fly too high, you might want it to open up really fast. For a faster opening, try folding it in half, then make radial zig-zag folds to get a small wedge. Then zig-zag fold it in the other direction and wrap your lines around it, not too tightly.

I've never had a parachute that failed to open (many failed deployments, but that's another issue), but that's partially luck. I once had a parachute that was stuck closed and finally opened up about 15 feet or less from the ground. I couldn't believe my luck.
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by SaskAlex »

SaskAlex wrote:For a faster opening, try folding it in half, then make radial zig-zag folds to get a small wedge. Then zig-zag fold it in the other direction and wrap your lines around it, not too tightly.
Okay, so instead of saying "zig-zag fold" in there, I really meant to say "accordion fold." Just keep alternating the direction of the fold. It will open up much quicker that way.
Andrew Leigh
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by Andrew Leigh »

Hi,

thanks for the response, I understand the accordian fold and it make perfect sense. The rocket will not be going too high, it is a Science Fair project for my grandson so we are more interested in a good launch, perfect flight and safe recovery rather than altitude.

After the Fair is over .......... well maybe the pressure will be cranked up just a wee tad. :twisted:

Cheers
Andrew
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Brian
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by Brian »

Good luck in the Science Fair.
it's hard to pack it wrong, just make sure the parachute isn't sticky before launch instead of after launch (a crash).
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SaskAlex
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by SaskAlex »

Oh, and if it's a plastic bag parachute it's best to let it hang open for some time before the launch. Don't pack it until just before.
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rockets-in-brighton
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by rockets-in-brighton »

SaskAlex wrote:Oh, and if it's a plastic bag parachute it's best to let it hang open for some time before the launch. Don't pack it until just before.
And talcum powder (baby powder) can be liberally applied as a dry lubricant.
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Andrew Leigh
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by Andrew Leigh »

Hi,

both sound like very practical solutions. I suppose the plastic would get a "memory" and or the slightest moisture would cause some sticking together.

I will comply.

Thanks
Andrew
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pudresful
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by pudresful »

Thats my way ;)[youtube][/youtube]
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by pudresful »

[youtube][/youtube] sorry Im new user
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U.S. Water Rockets1
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by U.S. Water Rockets1 »

Andrew Leigh wrote:Hi,

both sound like very practical solutions. I suppose the plastic would get a "memory" and or the slightest moisture would cause some sticking together.

I will comply.

Thanks
Andrew
If you leave it folded for a long time, then changes in weather/humidity can cause a static buildup inside the chute as well as the "memory" of the folds. The chute will want to stick to itself and could fail to open. It's good practice to let the parachute hang out flat until just before you launch it.
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Andrew Leigh
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by Andrew Leigh »

Hi,

good advice thanks, I had wondered about that.

Regards
Andrew
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by Marvin »

Good video pudresful. Talcolm powder hasn't worked too well for me. It just seems to fall out.
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Re: Parachute Packing

Post by U.S. Water Rockets1 »

Marvin wrote:Good video pudresful. Talcolm powder hasn't worked too well for me. It just seems to fall out.
What do you mean it falls out? The powder or the parachute?
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