PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - Turn coordinator -v- Attitude Indicator
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Old 3rd Nov 2011, 16:47
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rasti121
 
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As a separate question, I'm also trying to understand the difference between a turn indicator and a turn coordinator.
I think the turn indicator was an instrument with a needle indicating the rate of turn (not the "wings"). It might not have been equipped with a ball (slip indicator is the correct name?). I would say the turn coordinator has always to be equipped with a ball since in order to achieve a coordinated turn the ball must be in the middle (no slip/skid).

In theory you don't have to keep the angle of bank (as opposed to rate of turn which should be kept) constant and achieve a coordinate turn (speed change is required), the ball should always be middle (ish).

I see why these two instruments are a bit confusing, in normal controlled flight their indications might be similar, maybe you can ask an instructor to demonstrate a fully developed spin (in an approved aircraft) and observe the instruments (a lot of braveness required!) - this is the point where the direction of turn is most important (and correctly always shown only on turn indicator/coordinator) in order to regain controlled flight. Maybe the instructor could also demonstrate some less drastic ways of opposite indication for these 2 instruments - some suggested here previously.
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