Question regarding 701 build

So what is the reasoning behind the 2 piece longeron on the aft fuselage?  All four longerons call for an overlap and splice in the center.  I would think running one continuous piece would be stronger.  (I am building an older 701 kit)

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Permalink Reply by Dan Hill on December 4, 2019 at 6:03pm

2 piece longerons are used because 6061 sheet aluminum is only 12 foot long

Permalink Reply by Perry Delano on December 5, 2019 at 4:21pm

I thought they were 2 piece on the 701 for shipping purposes although on the  750 I think they were one piece.

Perry

Permalink Reply by Dan Hill on December 5, 2019 at 10:14pm

from what I understand the 750 uses extruded aluminum for the longerons which would be available in longer lengths, The 701 longerons are formed from .040 flat sheet, In 6061 the full sheet length is commonly 12 feet. They could be built out of 2024 which can be purchased in any length since it is commonly manufactured as continuous roll, but where will you find a brake with the capacity to bend that full length. They could be built from extrusion but that equals more weight.

Permalink Reply by Lawrence Bird on December 14, 2019 at 5:15pm

I've always surmised this was the reason -- in any case, it certainly seems to work.  I'd guess this is one of the least modified aspects of the 701... 

Permalink Reply by Brad Payne on December 6, 2019 at 8:27am
I'm going to take a guess that it's because a metal brake big enough to bend them in 1 piece is not cost effective. 2 shorter sections is easier and cheaper to manufacture. They are plenty strong enough as designed.

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