AVIATION & AERONAUTIC CALCULATOR
Maccready Setting
A precise tool.
What is the Maccready Setting & How does it work?
The MacCready ring setting is a method used in soaring to determine the optimal speed for gliders to fly in relation to thermals. It helps pilots maximize their distance flown per unit of time.
The formula for calculating the MacCready setting involves the lift factor (L) and the sink rate (S). The lift factor is a measure of how efficiently the glider can climb in thermals, while the sink rate is the speed at which the glider descends when not in a thermal.
V = frac{L}{S} times V_{glide}
V = Optimal speed, L = Lift factor, S = Sink rate, Vglide = Glide speed
Parameters
Result
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MacCready ring setting in gliding?
The MacCready ring setting helps glider pilots determine the best speed to fly relative to thermals, maximizing distance flown per unit of time.
How do I calculate the MacCready setting?
Use the formula V = (L/S) * V_glide, where L is the lift factor, S is the sink rate, and V_glide is your glider’s speed in calm air.
What does the lift factor represent in soaring?
The lift factor represents how efficiently a glider can climb in thermals, indicating the strength of the thermal lift relative to the glider’s sink rate.
Why is the MacCready setting important for gliding?
It helps pilots optimize their speed and route to fly as far as possible with the available thermal energy.
How does changing the lift factor affect the MacCready setting?
A higher lift factor increases the optimal speed, allowing the glider to climb more efficiently in stronger thermals.
Can I use the MacCready setting in different types of gliders?
Yes, but you need to adjust the lift factor and sink rate values specific to each glider model for accurate results.
What is V_glide in the MacCready formula?
V_glide is your glider’s speed when flying in calm air without any thermal assistance.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.