HIGHLY DETAILED EXHAUST NOZZLES SET AL-31F ON SU-27 1/32

AL-31F engine nozzles for the Su-27 1:32 from Temp Models

The set replaces the exhaust nozzles of both engines on a model of the Su-27 in 1:32 scale. A resin 3D print can manage the thin petals of the variable nozzle, the linkages and the internal detail, which an injection mold can never render faithfully because of the parting line. It is not a model of an aircraft but a replacement part for one.

The real subject

The AL-31F is a turbofan with an afterburner, which powers the Su-27 and its later variants. The exhaust nozzle is variable, made up of movable petals operated by external linkages and rings. Depending on the power setting the cross-section of the nozzle changes, so in photographs of a parked aircraft the two nozzles are usually open to different degrees. The metal at the mouth of the nozzle moreover changes color according to the thermal load, from blue-gray to golden brown.

Building and painting tips

First wash the 3D printed parts in warm water with a little dish soap, so that they are rid of the residue of printing resin. Cut the supports off with a sharp blade or a fine saw as close to the part as possible and sand the marks down with your airways protected. Resin does not bond with cement for polystyrene, so use cyanoacrylate glue. Lay a thin coat of primer on before painting, otherwise the paint holds poorly on a smooth print. The inside of the nozzles comes out best with metallic shades and a dark wash, which brings out the petals and the linkages.

Who the set is for

• The exhaust nozzles of the AL-31F engines for a model of the Su-27 in 1:32 scale
• A resin 3D print with fine resolution
• An accessory set, not a model of an aircraft
• Petals, linkages and internal detail without the limits of a parting line
• Calls for cyanoacrylate glue and a primer under the paint

The set is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.