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CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS
The Hybrid Tandem differs from a classic paraglider in design, but in principle, the construction glider is constructed with a top and bottom surface, connected by
ribs. One top and bottom panel, together with the connecting ribs is called a cell. Each cell has an opening on the front lower part. The cells fill with air forcing the
panels to take the shape dictated by the air-foil (rib) section.
On either side the wing ends in a stabilizer or wing tip, which provides straight-line (Yaw) stability and produces some outward lift to keep the span-wise tension.
The front part of the ribs use APCO's FLEXON batten system to keep the leading edge shaped at high speeds and in turbulent air. They also improve the
performance and the launch characteristics of the glider.
The glider is made from tear resistant Ripstop Nylon cloth, which is P.U. coated to zero to give the fabric high resistance to the elements.
Different cloth is used for the top, bottom and ribs due to their different functions.
The lines are made of superaramide and the upper lines are imbedded hook-up points made from Dyneema, imbedded into the bottom surface of the wing for
minimal drag and maximum performance.
The bottom section of the brake lines is made of polyester because of its better mechanical properties.
The links between the risers and lines are either Dyneema soft links or stainless steel maillon rapide links.
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FLEXON® Batten system:
New generation FLEXON ® batten system incorporated (see below) in the
leading edge of the ribs, insuring perfect profile shape (instead of traditional
Mylar reinforcement). FLEXON ® battens reduce the weight of the glider by an
additional 500gr. and unlike Mylar reinforcement will guarantee no
deterioration in performance or launch.
Additional advantage of FLEXON batten is that it is practically indestructible,
safeguarding the performance and launch over the lifespan of the glider.
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TRIMMING
All Apco gliders are trimmed for optimum performance combined with unsurpassed safety. It is very important not to re-trim or tamper
with any of the lines or risers as this may alter the performance and safety. Trimming of the brake line should be done in accordance with
this manual and carefully checked before flying.