Glow Engines Versus Electric. Cost and Time
What do you get when you have a bunch of R/C enthusiasts in the same room?
- A great debate on the evolution of mankind?
- A vehement discussion on black holes?
Nope.
They would more likely be arguing about which is better, glow (nitro) engines or electric.
Obviously, we’re not going to resolve this issue overnight, but we CAN provide our readers with a few facts and figures so they can compare the cost and time attributes of both engine types.
To begin, we should probably acknowledge that electric engines are quieter and run cleaner than so-called glow engines. You also don’t have the extra expense of providing the fuel needed to run the glow engine. But, the glow engines are much more efficient when you’re flying larger and heavier aircraft. And, according to what we’ve compiled for other sources on the Internet, nitro-fueled planes can fly for longer distances than electric powered models.
Here’s how they break down:
A glow or nitro engine requires a special mixture of fuel, which can cost up to $25 per gallon (enough for about 10 flights of an R/C plane); a glow plug starter that is used to ignite the glow plug will cost about $20; a torque starter used to turn the engine will run between $40 to $50 (magnetos can also be used, but they also need some form of battery backup) and a plane that is capable of using a nitro-fueled engine, which can cost $350 or more. Total cost is a minimum $435.
An electric engine requires a DC peak charger, which is about $100, or a DC quick peak charger, which will cost about $30 and can be used to fly less expensive so-called “starter” planes that will cost a minimum of $50. There’s no fuel to consume, so there’s no expense for the nitro mixture. Total cost here is a minimum $80.
On the surface, electric engines seem to be more cost-efficient that their glow engine counterparts. But, if you want to fly bigger aircraft greater distances, you have no choice but to use a glow (or even gasoline) powered engine, unless you want to taxi your plane to its destination.