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DeveloperPermalink Reply by Doug Weibel on November 25, 2011 at 5:15pm

I think the relative scarcity of twin engine DIY Drones is simply a function of the relative scarcity of twin engine RC planes.  There are simply a lot more single engine choices.

 

There are quite a few twin engine/motor DIY Drones, though.  The Multiplex TwinStar has been a popular choice.

 

From a reliability standpoint, if you have an appropriately sized motor, esc, and battery, it is a pretty reliable setup.

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Permalink Reply by Charles K Taylor on February 13, 2012 at 9:39pm

I know this thread is pretty old but thought you might be interested in this:

http://diydrones.com/forum/topics/giant-telemaster-twin-engine?xg_s...

Its a giant telemaster converted to twin engine.

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Permalink Reply by Red Goldman on February 23, 2012 at 12:04pm

The main issue, I believe, is with the addition of another engine, you also have to increase the battery capacity to power that engine or suffer a reduction in flight time due to the increased power consumption.

Twin engines can certainly be done, but it's a trade-off and you have to weigh the options.

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Permalink Reply by Macboffin on March 9, 2012 at 5:12pm

Some guys are talking about "engines" and then "batteries". Engines use fuel, electric Motors use batteries!

 Power for weight, two small engines will be better than one twice capacity, but reliability is key.Four stroke gas engines usually very reliable, as are motors, (with the proviso that cheap outrunners sometimes shed magnets,which is bad for business!). Two possible reasons for twin engines,in push-pull configuration; problems with cg position, ie balancing engine weight with (Usually nose mounted) sensor payload, desirability of smaller diameter props for launcher or ground clearance, or maybe hand clearance for a hand launched type. A fast revving pusher prop winding its way up the length of your forearm can quite spoil the day! Push-pull configuration has one great advantage, the opposing torques of each prop cancel each other out, so there is no need to re-trim rudder/aileron after a throttle change.

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