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Aviation History
1940
1940 - 2039.PDF
JULY 18, 1940 THE "CANT" SEAPLANES (CONTINUED) The Z.506B take-off picture on the right gives a fine impression of power and clean run- ning. Pegasus type engines are used. Below is the torpedo or bomb compartment. ated in the bomb-aimer's compart- ment. Cant Z.501 On two occasions a production type Cant Z.501 single-engined flying boat broke the world's long-distance record for this class of aircraft. In October, 1934, a Z.501 flew from Monfalcone to Massaua (2,566.6 miles) and in July of the following year did the trip from Monfalcone to Berbera (3,063 miles). From a distance the machine might be mistaken for a Dornier Do 18, due to the mounting of the wing above the hull and the location of the nacelle. On examination, however, it will be found that there are many points of difference. The central wooden hull is sub- divided into three sections by two main bulkheads. Longerons of ash and spruce constitute the longitudinal system and the transverse frames are of similar materials. The two main bulk- heads carry the attachment for the main wing bracing struts. The hull has two steps, the whole bottom and sides below the water line being in the form of a double skin with a layer of doped fabric between. The remainder of the hull has a skin of poplar covered with varnished fabric. Wooden construction is also used for the wing, which has fabric covering. The other sections are approximately parallel in chord but have elliptical tips. They are braced to the hull by parallel struts. In each half-wing there are four petrol tanks with a total capacity of 608 gallons. Supplement- ary tankage for a further no gallons can be installed in the hull. Interchangeability is a feature of the outboard floats. These are of a good streamline shape and are of simi- lar construction to the hull. Fin, tailplane, rudder and elevator are all of wood with fabric covering. The lower part of the fin is built integral with the hull and the tail- plane is braced by two struts on its under side and by streamlined wires above. Trimming tabs are fitted in the elevator and rudder. An Isotta Fraschini Asso XI R, C 15 vee-twelve liquid-cooled engine is The bow gun installation on the CantZ.501 flying boat. The screening and feeding arrangements are interesting. carried forward of the leading edge of the wing in a duralumin cradle sup- ported by two steel struts. At ground level the engine gives 850 h.p., though 960 h.p, is available for take-off. Other characteristics are: Maximum output at 5,000ft., 900 h.p. ; capacity, 32.14 litres ; dry weight, 1,390 lb. The radiator is of the frontal type with an abundant surface, as the machine is used in hot climates. An Isotta Fraschini pump draws petrol from, a collector tank in the nacelle. The disposition of the armament A Breda SAFAT gun is carried in the engine nacelle of the Cant Z.501 as shown on the left. It has an excellent field offire. On the right is the amidships gun position, showing the guard rail.
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