I think the Berkut uses metal oleo retracts - Carbon can be

made to work

and is potentially lighter for the job than aluminum or

titanium, but is

rather expensive both from materials and labor. I have been working
with Pine off list so as to reduce the non rotary exchanges. Vance

You are thinking of the Infinity oleo retracts for canards

which are mounted to the center spar ends and retracted inwards
and up into the strakes. The Berkut uses molded carbon, mounted
to the fuselage and retracted outward and up into the strakes.

...Chrissi

Cozy Mk-IV 13B-turbo
www.CozyGirrrl.com

Having seen the Berkut several times at SZP the struts are almost
stright with
a very steep angle so I don't think they are working as springs.
There must be
something else doing the springing. I think that was Vances point.

Paul Lamar

Chrissi's got it, gents.  Here's a photo of the Berkut (and E-Racer) mains.
The gear legs bolt (quite solidly) to cast aluminum trunions that are firmly
bolted to the airframe.  You've got tires and the spring of the legs and
that's it.

  Andy Hecker
  ahecker@satx.rr.com
  E-Racer 257 with brand-new Berkut gear

How do you know the retraction cylinders do not have air springs inside them?
That is what is meant by the words "oleo retracts".

There is nothing in this picture that disproves that possibility.
I think that was what Vance was referring too. These legs are
extremely stiff. I find it hard to believe this is the only springing
the Berkut uses. If so it must be rough on takeoff and landing. 

Enough of this. This has nothing to do with rotaries.

Paul Lamar
 
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