Tail Area For Given Tail Efficiency Calculator

Horizontal Tail Area Formula:

\[ S_t = \frac{S \times (C_L - C_{Wlift})}{C_{Tlift} \times \eta} \]

Reference Area (S):

m²

Lift Coefficient (C_L):

Wing Lift Coefficient (C_Wlift):

Tail Lift Coefficient (C_Tlift):

Tail Efficiency (η):

Horizontal Tail Area (S_t):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Horizontal Tail Area Formula?

The Horizontal Tail Area formula calculates the required surface area of the horizontal stabilizer on an aircraft, which provides pitch stability and control. It relates the tail area to various lift coefficients and tail efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Horizontal Tail Area equation:

\[ S_t = \frac{S \times (C_L - C_{Wlift})}{C_{Tlift} \times \eta} \]

Where:

\( S_t \) — Horizontal Tail Area (m²)
\( S \) — Reference Area (m²)
\( C_L \) — Lift Coefficient
\( C_{Wlift} \) — Wing Lift Coefficient
\( C_{Tlift} \) — Tail Lift Coefficient
\( \eta \) — Tail Efficiency

Explanation: The equation calculates the required tail area based on the difference between total lift and wing lift, divided by the tail's lift capability and efficiency.

3. Importance of Tail Area Calculation

Details: Accurate tail area calculation is crucial for aircraft stability and control design. It ensures proper pitch control and stability characteristics throughout the flight envelope.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter reference area in m², lift coefficients as dimensionless values, and tail efficiency as a value between 0 and 1. All values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is tail efficiency?
A: Tail efficiency is defined as the ratio of dynamic pressure associated with the tail to dynamic pressure associated with an aircraft's wing.

Q2: Why is the wing lift coefficient subtracted?
A: The wing lift coefficient is subtracted from the total lift coefficient to determine the portion of lift that must be provided by the tail for stability and control.

Q3: What are typical values for tail efficiency?
A: Tail efficiency typically ranges from 0.8 to 0.95, depending on the aircraft design and tail location relative to the wing.

Q4: How does tail area affect aircraft performance?
A: Larger tail areas provide better stability but increase drag and weight. Smaller tail areas reduce drag but may compromise stability and control.

Q5: Can this formula be used for both horizontal and vertical tails?
A: This specific formula is designed for horizontal tails. Vertical tail area calculations use different parameters related to directional stability.