A Tiny Metal Biplane

My six-year-old son has been talking to me about a biplane since he saw one on TV.

I decided to give him one, but this one is a bit peculiar.

This is the first time that I do this kind of achievement, without a plan, without any measurement, with little equipment, and also quickly (only 3H30).

In short, a real challenge.

Step 1: The Material

I have been storing sheets of galvanized sheetmetal of 0.5 mm thickness which friend had given me.

They are very easy to cut and form.

Another definite advantage is that small pieces can hold with glue.

Only one needle will be added for the propeller axis.

Step 2: The Tools

I used for this realization:

_ A vise (a small anvil would have been ideal).
_ A angle grinder.
_ A hammer.
_ A metal compass.
_ A little metal file.
_ A small nose plier.
_ A screw.
_ Cyano glue.

IMPORTANT: I did not use any measuring equipment (ruler, square…).

Step 3: The Fuselage

I formed the plate with a hammer and on the edge of the vice.

The end will be drilled with a screw and then glued.

Step 4: The Wings

I cut out two slightly V-shaped equivalent wings.

Step 5: The Tailplane

It’s the little wing in the back of the plane.

Step 6: The Drift

It’s the vertical wing behind the plane.

Step 7: The Stays

These are the smallest parts, they hold the upper wing.Watch your hands when using the grinder, remember to hold the parts to the clamp.

Step 8: Cut Out the Cockpit

I thought I’d do it sooner, but I made up my mind later.

It gives a nice effect once it is realized.

I finish to stick the upper wing on the stays.

Step 9: The Landing Gear

Very fine parts with small wheels, these will be the hardest to make and glue.

Step 10: The Propeller

I pierced the center of a piece of metal with the screw.

I then drew a circle to make a big propeller.

But I thought it would be more realistic to make a double blade propeller.

I then twisted it, so it turns when you blow on it.

I pass a needle through the propeller, and then I stick the needle in the fuselage.

Step 11: ​Model Completed

Finally it weighs 19 grams, and measures approximately 80 x 80 x 30 mm.

My son already loves it.

He’ll make a nice decoration object in his room.

Comments

[YOUTUBEFREEKYOYO]

I suggest if it is available and you can do it, weld the parts. the thing will last much much longer. of course, you can not weld galvanized metal and will have to sand it down a bit to use it, but the end result will be worth it.

[autusgo]

I love it, Is there a template or some guide to cut all the pieces? Thanks!

[TangLB]

Hi,
As I wrote at the beginning, I fully made it without any dimensions or any shapes.
But I can do something in reverse-design if you want.
Let me your mail in privacy message.

[autusgo]

I read that, but I thought you might had some kind of guidance. I'll see if I can do it without it and if I can't I'll write you. Thank you!

[Hey Jude]

Wow - this is so great. Really inspiring. Never thought of doing something like this. My only question would be perhaps JB Weld or something else might be stronger adhesive? Or could one even solder perhaps? Thanks for any ideas from you (or the community!). Will have a go - perhaps with Alu Cans. Hmmm....

[jeanniel1]

I believe solder and any heating of galvanized metal would be dangerous. Aluminum cans would be a neat metal to use, however!

[TangLB]

Thanks.
Glue is enough stronger for it, i am surprised too.
In every case, it should not be moved.

[CHRIS11556]

Like it a lot, well done. A good father. Perhaps there's a way to fix a slightly larger washer to the side of wheels so it can roll.

[TangLB]

Thank you

[Meglymoo87]

Nice!

[Waste Of Space]

At only 0.5mm thick, you may have been able to cut the metal with a sturdy pair of scissors.
Alternatively, tin snips are quite cheap - I bought a set of three from Bunnings for $25 - whilst angle grinders are quite dangerous and they can easily get away from you.
Even so, great idea and good job

[TangLB]

Yes I know for cisors but I don't have one.
And in this moment with the Coronavirus I think it's not necessary to order anything at all. I prefer to wait.
I acquired good dexterity with my small angle grinder , but I know too it's dangerous with small parts.
Thanks for you message ;-)

[banman11]

That is a fantastic project. You have described in very clear detail.

Your son is very lucky to have such a great dad!

You've got my vote!

Well done...

[TangLB]

Thanks mate ;)

[seamster]

Super impressive results! I need to make some tiny things I think. This looks like a lot of fun! : )

[TangLB]

Thanks a lot.

[bpoulton]

Really Nice job! you killed this contest! great project down to the great instructions!!

[TangLB]

Really thanks.
It makes me proud of that I did.