Word: airstreams
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Speed makes the difference-a higher order of speed. Many military planes can plunge in a power dive, faster & faster until the needle of the airspeed indicator creeps close to the dread red mark of "compressibility." At this critical speed, the airstream, accelerated by crowding over the curved surfaces, reaches at certain spots the speed of sound.† Then a standing sound wave may form on the wing or tail, roaring and hammering, perhaps chewing holes in the plane's skin or freezing the controls...
...Suits & Coolers. The jet plane's controls, helped by hydraulic boosters against the powerful airstream, are devilishly sensitive. "The slightest movement hurls you over miles of the earth's surface as the ground blurs beneath you." Jet pilots normally wear "G-suits" to protect them from loss of consciousness. These operate automatically on the turns, keeping the pilots' blood from leaving their brains and concentrating in the lower parts of their bodies. "When you do a sudden steep turn, you are punched severely in the belly as the abdominal bladder inflates and the laces tighten around your...
...speed, heat from the engine and the friction of the airstream zipping over the canopy raises the inside temperature from 40 to 60 degrees. When the outside temperature is already high, this increase is enough to prostrate the pilot. Some ships have elaborate refrigeration systems to cool the cockpits...
...Airflow model, with a more recognizable radiator, continues. An Airstream Chrysler, which is mostly a compromise between the former and the ordinary car, is also available. Both are said to have easier steering, greater roominess, and a more silent transmission. Both models have a now device for easier shifting...
...past, the De Soto is the Chrysler's little brother, appearing in both Airflow and Airstream form. With the exception of smaller size, less horse-power, a slightly rounded hood, and no change in transmission, it is much the same as its big brother...