Parachute Packing

[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.

Cheers
Andrew

[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.

[SaskAlex]

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]

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.

Cheers
Andrew

[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).

[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.

[rockets-in-brighton]

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.

[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

[pudresful]

Thats my way ;)[youtube][/youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDEn1YLNghs

[pudresful]

sorry Im new user

[U.S. Water Rockets1]

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.