7) Swing Libra RS Paraglider: High Aspect Ratio EN-C 2-Liner!
Based on the successful and proven genes of Swing's Sphera RS, Swing's Libra RS paraglider is a semi-light and easier-to-pilot version of their high-performance glider.
With an inspiring flat aspect ratio of 6.9, projected aspect ratio of 5.1 and a canopy weight starting from 3.7 kg, the Libra RS is one of the finest paragliders leading the new EN-C 2-Liner class. Despite Swing's initial disbelief while reviewing the test flight results, due to them being so good, it is important to note that the Libra RS is designed for experienced paraglider pilots who seek the highest performance levels in their flying equipment. Libra RS has been engineered from the ground up to lead in the newly forming EN-C Class competitions.
Who is the Libra RS for?
Swing developed the Libra RS for experienced adventure and XC pilots seeking the performance of a 2-liner, without compromising on the safety of the EN-C sports class. With its intelligent, semi-light, and compact design, the Libra RS is robust enough for extended hike & XC fly tours as well as daily use. RAST also provides maximum control in every situation, allowing you to make the most out of your flying day.
The Libra RS offers you maximum reliability and safety in the new EN-C 2-Liner paragliding league, allowing takeoffs and landings in difficult terrain, or when there is less-than-optimal wind conditions. During flight, RAST ensures high stability and precise tracking, guaranteeing fatigue-free flying over long distances even in demanding conditions.
Like its “big brother,” the Sphera RS, the Libra RS provides maximum control and comfort for an unparalleled flying experience.
RAST (Ram Air Section Technology)
On paragliders with RAST the canopy is divided into different internal pressurised sections by one or more fabric panels, some with valves running crossways to the direction of flight. This makes it possible to influence the air flows within the canopy.
With Swing's patented RAST system, the air equalisation flows within the paraglider canopy can be regulated through defined openings. This applies both when filling, during take-off, and when emptying. In the case of pressure loss, e.g. caused by canopy collapse in turbulent air, the relative internal pressure of the CORE section increases, while the BUFFER section absorbs the introduced energy by deformation. Furthermore, RAST can be used as an additional support to the leading and trailing edge, which has a positive effect on flight comfort. As RAST connects the ribs over the entire profile height, the construction has a stiffening effect and reinforcements and/or stiffening elements can be saved or even completely replaced by this special construction method.
The goal of adapting RAST for the Libra RS was to combine the best possible launch characteristics with high flight comfort.
To achieve this, Swing integrated the “wall” directly where the lift centre of gravity is located, at 35% of the profile depth, while also utilising it as a third tension band for the canopy. By positioning RAST further forward, about two-thirds of the air mass is behind the “wall” during steady flight, enabling the Libra RS to dispense with the check valves and their additional weight without compromising stability. Despite the inspiringly high aspect ratio, the canopy is stretched directly above the pilot, achieving a neutral flight feeling for your comfort.
Like it does for Swing's other models, RAST provides the Libra RS with significantly more canopy and shape stability, particularly when gliding in turbulent air, as well as excellent thermalling properties in all conditions. The increased internal pressure in the Core Section allows for precise control of the Libra RS in turbulent conditions. With the reduced Buffer Section, the front part of the Libra RS fills quickly, making this 2 liner easier and safer to launch in difficult terrain or if there is unfavourable wind conditions.
RAST, however, provides its most significant advantages in canopy disruptions and during extreme flight behaviour. The partition wall prevents or delays complete collapse of the canopy in case of disturbances, resulting in less altitude loss, faster reopening, less tendency to stall, and better brake control in most cases.
Overall, the Libra RS impresses with its adapted RAST system, which is simple and allows for fatigue-free flying on long Hike & XC tours in demanding conditions for a semi-light 2-liner of the EN-C sports class, enabling you to focus fully on reaching your daily goal.
Nitinol Leading Edge and Profile Reinforcement
Nitinol is a shape memory alloy that is highly durable, temperature resistant, and corrosion resistant. The name Nitinol is an acronym derived from its composition of Nickel and Titanium and its development at the Naval Ordnance Laboratory. This material is widely used in medical technology, and Swing has been one of the pioneering paraglider manufacturers to use Nitinol as leading edge reinforcement.
The use of Nitinol reinforcements in the Libra RS ensures a consistently sharp leading edge and maximum profile fidelity. The stiffeners located in the top and bottom sail are also made of this shape memory alloy, which is resistant to buckling, temperature changes, and moisture. You can rest assured that the performance of the Libra RS will not be affected by any unwanted deformation of the canopy, even if it was not packed or stored optimally.
2 Level Risers
The Libra RS riser features two main risers, each of which is divided. The split A-riser makes it easier to put on and take off your ears, while the BIII-trunk line is separately suspended through a run-through system, which provides:
- A more stable outer wing during accelerated flight.
- More effective pitch control through the rear risers.
This is accomplished by the differentiation of the outer B-stem line, which causes the BIII to convert only half of the input during both acceleration and when pulling on the B-risers. The ergonomically shaped T-bar, designed specifically for the Libra RS, enables maximum control of the canopy through the rear risers and can be easily disassembled if needed.
Alessio Cassola, Swing designer and test pilot, gives details of how the split risers on the Libra RS work in flight here:
Big Ears Easy Descent
“Big ears” are easily executed with the Libra RS, both at trim speed and full speed, even in turbulent conditions. To apply the ears stably and effectively, Swing's development team recommends first taking half a wrap (from the original factory setting of the brake master line!) to bring the brakes slightly under tension. With the shortened brake line in your hand, reach above the connection loop into the separately suspended outer A-stem line (AIII) and pull it down.
Alessio Cassola, Swing designer and test pilot, demonstrates how Big-Ears are easy and stable on the Libra RS here:
Sharknose Profle
To increase the internal pressure of the profile in the front area of the Swing Libra RS paraglider at low angles of attack, a nitinol reinforced sharknose adapted to the profile ensures optimum stability at high speeds.
Pro-Dry Aramid Lines
The latest generation of unsheathed aramid lines are used in the Libra RS. The special Pro-Dry coating, reduces the line’s moisture absorption by 60% and increases its UV and dirt resistance. The magenta, blue, and orange colouring of the lines makes them easily visible and easy to sort without a sheath. The high stiffness of the line material also reduces knot formation in use.
Airflow Alignment
The profile of the Libra RS is based on the high-performance profile specially developed for the Sphera RS. The profile features double 3D shaping in the area of the profile nose to reduce wrinkles. The individual ribs are aligned from the centre of the wing outward in the direction of the airflow. This achieves maximum aerodynamic quality of the profile, which is continued to the trailing edge through the additional use of mini-ribs.
Technical Specifications
With a class-leading flat/projected aspect ratio of 6.9/5.1, and RAST tying it all together, the Libra RS is a rock solid, powerful and precise glider. Masterfully engineered to lead the newly forming EN-C Class competitions, the Libra RS will empower all advanced pilots to achieve great cross country flights!
Cross Country Machine: Matthais Wehrle takes joy in a 175 km unfinished FAI triangle
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Flying the Swing Libra RS at Stubaicup 2023
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