Alexei Volkov
The E6B flight computer is a tool used in aviation to perform calculations for fuel, time, distance, wind correction, and more. It is constructed from various materials, including metal, aluminum, plastic, cardboard, or a combination of these materials. The original E6Bs from World War II were made of plastic, while newer versions may be made of metal with etched markings. One unique feature of the E6B is the presence of a plastic loop or friction bushing, which serves to eliminate pivot wear issues found in earlier metal versions. This loop is an important detail that contributes to the overall functionality and durability of the device.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Solving planning and navigation problems associated with flying |
| Original Material | Plastic |
| Current Materials | Metal, Aluminium, Fiberboard, Cardboard |
| Use | A slide rule for performing calculations |
| Advantages of Metal | More durable, instructions are etched on |
| Advantages of Plastic | Lighter, smaller, less prone to breaking, cheaper |
| Use Cases | Fuel, time, and distance calculations; wind correction; finding TAS, density altitude, and unit conversions |
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What You'll Learn
Metal E6Bs are durable but prone to pivot wear issues
Metal E6Bs are widely regarded as durable and easy to use. They are often chosen by aspiring professional pilots who need a device that will last. However, they are prone to pivot wear issues. One common complaint about metal E6Bs is that the rivet holding the circular centre dial wears out over time, allowing the wheel to spin too freely. This issue can be mitigated by lightly tapping the centre rivet with a hammer after removing the plastic on the back.
The pivot wear issues of earlier metal E6B models have been largely addressed in newer versions, such as the ASA E6B Metal Flight Computer. This newer model incorporates a plastic friction bushing, which effectively eliminates the pivot wear problems of its predecessors. While the plastic bushing makes the device thicker and heavier than its paper or aluminium counterparts, many users feel that the durability of metal E6Bs justifies the trade-off.
The durability of metal E6Bs is a significant advantage over less robust materials like cardboard or paper. Cardboard and paper E6Bs are more susceptible to damage from liquids, bending, and general wear and tear from being carried around in a flight bag. Metal E6Bs, on the other hand, can withstand these conditions and maintain their functionality for longer.
Despite the advantages of metal E6Bs, they may not be the best choice for everyone. For student pilots who do not plan to fly professionally, a plastic or electronic device may be more suitable and cost-effective. Plastic E6Bs, for instance, are more affordable and can provide similar functionality. Additionally, electronic E6Bs offer advantages in terms of size, weight, and power requirements, making them a preferred choice for some users.
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Plastic E6Bs are cheaper but less durable
E6-B flight computers, also known as "whiz wheels", are circular slide rules used in aviation. They are made out of aluminum, plastic, cardboard, or combinations of these materials. The original E6-Bs from the WWII era were made of plastic, specifically a type that glowed under black light as cockpits were illuminated this way at night.
Plastic E6-Bs are cheaper than metal ones, but they are also less durable. For example, the Jeppesen Metal E6-B is described as "strong, durable, and easy to use", while the same source notes that the plastic version is less durable and has a rivet that holds the circular center dial that eventually wears out. Another user review mentions that the plastic E6-B is an economical version of the aluminum model.
Despite being less durable, plastic E6-Bs are still widely used in flight training due to their low cost and ease of use. They are also preferred over electronic planning tools or software because they are lighter, smaller, less prone to breaking, easy to use one-handed, quicker, and do not require electrical power.
In summary, while plastic E6-Bs may be more cost-effective, they are not as durable as their metal counterparts. However, their affordability, portability, and ease of use make them a popular choice for flight students and those seeking a simple and reliable flight computer.
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Aluminium E6Bs are long-lasting and have etched markings
Aluminium E6Bs are renowned for their longevity and durability. Constructed from solid metal, these flight computers are built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use, making them a reliable companion for pilots and students alike.
One of the standout features of Aluminium E6Bs is their etched markings. Unlike printed markings, which can fade or rub off over time, etched markings are permanently inscribed into the metal surface. This ensures that the crucial information and instructions on the E6B remain clear and legible for years to come.
The etched markings also contribute to the premium look and feel of the Aluminium E6B. They offer a sleek and elegant appearance, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the device. This attention to detail sets the Aluminium E6B apart from its competitors, reinforcing its reputation as a high-quality flight computer.
Furthermore, the etched markings provide added functionality. By permanently marking the device with essential instructions, pilots and students can quickly refer to the E6B for guidance, even in the most fast-paced and demanding situations. This feature not only improves efficiency but also enhances the overall user experience, making the Aluminium E6B a popular choice among aviation enthusiasts.
The longevity of Aluminium E6Bs extends beyond their physical construction. By incorporating etched markings, these flight computers become a long-lasting educational tool. Students can refer to the etched instructions as a quick reference guide, aiding in their learning and problem-solving abilities. This feature bridges the gap between functionality and knowledge transfer, making the Aluminium E6B a versatile instrument in the aviation domain.
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Cardboard E6Bs are not as durable as metal ones
One of the main advantages of cardboard E6Bs is their cost. They are much cheaper than metal E6Bs, and they are also lighter and smaller. This makes them a good option for students or anyone on a budget. However, they may not be as durable as metal E6Bs, especially if they are not cared for properly.
Cardboard E6Bs are also not as easy to use as metal E6Bs. The instructions for using a cardboard E6B are usually included in a booklet, which can be inconvenient to carry around and refer to while flying. On the other hand, the instructions for using a metal E6B are usually etched onto the device itself, making them easier to access and refer to while flying.
Another disadvantage of cardboard E6Bs is that they are not water-resistant. This means that they can be easily damaged if they get wet. Metal E6Bs, on the other hand, are generally water-resistant and can withstand getting wet without being damaged.
Overall, while cardboard E6Bs are a good option for those on a budget or who only need an E6B for a short period of time, metal E6Bs are more durable, accurate, and easier to use. They are a better investment for those who plan to use their E6B frequently or for an extended period of time.
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The E6B was invented in the 1930s by Philip Dalton
The E6B, also known as the E6-B or E-6B, is a flight computer invented in the 1930s by Naval Lt. Philip Dalton. Dalton was born in Scotia, New York, and studied engineering at Cornell University's College of Engineering. After graduating, he joined the United States Army as an artillery officer but later resigned and became a Naval Reserve pilot in 1931. During his time as a pilot, Dalton developed an interest in slide-rule flight computers, and his first models were designed in the early 1930s.
In 1932, Dalton created the first version of the E-6B, originally known as the "Dalton Dead Reckoning Computer". He applied for a patent in 1936 and was granted one in 1937 for the Model C, D, and G computers. These computers were widely used during World War II by the British Commonwealth, the U.S. Navy, and the Japanese, and they were further improved upon by the Germans. The E-6B was introduced to the Army in 1940, and over 400,000 were manufactured during World War II, mostly made of plastic that glowed under blacklight to illuminate cockpits at night.
The E6B is a circular slide rule used in aviation and is considered one of the first analog calculating devices or "computers" developed in the 20th century. It is used for various calculations, including fuel burn, wind correction, time en route, ground speed, and estimated fuel burn. The front side of the E6B is used for general calculations, while the backside is specifically for wind vector solutions. The E6B has a rotating dial and a metal slider that can be reversed depending on whether it is used for low-speed or high-speed aircraft.
The E6B has remained popular even with the advent of electronic planning tools. Many pilots still prefer to have an E6B as a backup to their digital flight computers since it does not require batteries or accessories. Additionally, the graphical nature of the E6B makes it a useful tool for instruction in flight schools, as it helps students understand the fundamental concepts and relationships behind the calculations. The E6B is also marketed as a ""geek toy"" for those interested in math, science, and engineering due to its simple yet ingenious design.
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Frequently asked questions
The plastic loop on the metal E6B is used for hanging the device around your neck, allowing easy access and ensuring you don't lose it.
The E6B is a flight computer used to perform calculations related to fuel, time, distance, wind correction, and more.
The metal E6B is typically made from solid metal, such as aluminum, with etched markings. It may also feature plastic components, such as a plastic friction bushing or a plastic coating to protect the metal.
Metal E6Bs are recommended for aspiring professional pilots or those seeking a durable product. Plastic or electronic alternatives may be more suitable for student pilots or those not pursuing professional flying.
The metal E6B has a rotating dial and a reversible metal slider. The front and back sides of the device are used for different calculations, with the front side being more versatile. The metal slider has different sides for low-speed and high-speed aircraft.
