Advance acoustic SIGMA8, User Manual

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Flying with a wet paraglider
Flying with a wet glider creates a risk of deep stall. Deep stall is of-
ten the result of a combination of factors. The weight of the wet can-
opy goes up, and this increased weight increases the angle of attack,
which always puts the glider nearer the deep stall limit. Added to this,
water drops on the top surface have a detrimental effect on the lam-
inar flow of the boundary layer near the leading edge, which distinct-
ly reduces the maximum lift coefficient. If the wet glider is also being
flown at its lower weight limit there is a further small effect in increas-
ing the angle of attack, as well as there being a lower airspeed be-
cause of the reduced wing loading.
In order to avoid the risk of deep stall with a wet glider the wing
should be braked as little as possible, and big ears not employed
at all. As a further preventative measure apply moderate (25-40%)
speed bar. All these measures have a small effect on reducing the
angle of attack.
Should the wet glider get into deep stall, recovery can only be
achieved using the speed bar. See also section «Deep stall».
Winching
The SIGMA 8 is suitable for winch launching. When taking off in wind-
less conditions, ensure that the paraglider is laid out in an arched or
even wedge shape (risk of the glider rosetting):
Winch launch is only permitted if:
• the pilot has completed a tow training course (only Germany/
DHV);
• the winch system is certified for use with paragliders;
• the winch operator has been fully trained in how to winch
paragliders.
Aerobatics
The SIGMA 8 was developed as a cross country and thermaling para-
glider with a high fun-factor. With suitable pilot skill and the right
equipment, the SIGMA 8 lends itself to flying manoeuvres such as
wingovers, asymmetric spiral, reversal and SAT. The wing has been
tested to the usual 8G load factor, but is not specially strengthened.
Please be aware that dynamic manoeuvres put larger stress on the
material and can shorten the glider’s life. If you do go down this road