PETG vs TPU vs PLA for RC Plane Parts: Which Filament Should You Choose?

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Introduction

Building or repairing RC planes is a rewarding hobby, especially when you can 3D print your own custom parts. But with so many filament options available, it can be tricky to pick the right material. In this post, we'll compare three popular filaments—PETG, TPU, and PLA—and help you decide which one is best for your RC plane parts.

Understanding the Basics

PLA (Polylactic Acid)

PLA is one of the most common 3D printing materials. It's made from renewable resources like corn starch, making it eco-friendly. PLA is easy to print with and produces sharp, detailed parts. However, it's more brittle and less heat-resistant than other filaments.

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)

PETG combines the ease of printing of PLA with improved strength and flexibility. It’s more impact resistant and can handle higher temperatures, which makes it a popular choice for functional parts.

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

TPU is a flexible filament known for its rubber-like elasticity. It’s great for parts that need to absorb shocks or require bending. However, it can be trickier to print due to its softness.

How to Choose the Right Filament for RC Plane Parts

When selecting filament, consider the following factors:

  • Strength and Durability: Parts like motor mounts or landing gear need to withstand impacts and stress.
  • Flexibility: Components such as vibration dampeners benefit from some flexibility.
  • Heat Resistance: Parts near the motor or battery may get warm.
  • Ease of Printing: Especially important if you’re new to 3D printing.

Material Comparison for RC Plane Parts

PLA

Pros: Easy to print, good detail, low cost.

Cons: Brittle, poor heat resistance, can crack under stress.

Best for: Decorative parts, lightweight internal components, or prototypes that don’t face mechanical stress.

PETG

Pros: Strong, impact-resistant, better heat resistance than PLA, moderately flexible.

Cons: Slightly harder to print than PLA, can string if printer isn’t tuned.

Best for: Structural parts like motor mounts, hinges, or parts exposed to vibration or mild heat.

TPU

Pros: Highly flexible, excellent shock absorption, durable.

Cons: Difficult to print, requires slow print speeds, not as rigid.

Best for: Shock-absorbing mounts, vibration dampeners, flexible connectors.

Practical Tips for Printing RC Plane Parts

  • Layer Adhesion: Use appropriate print temperatures for each filament to ensure strong layers.
  • Infill Percentage: Increase infill (50% or more) for parts that need strength.
  • Print Speed: Slower speeds help with TPU and PETG for better quality.
  • Post-Processing: Sand and smooth parts to reduce drag for aerodynamic components.

Conclusion

For most RC plane parts, PETG strikes the best balance between strength, durability, and ease of printing, making it ideal for structural components. PLA is suitable for non-load-bearing parts or prototypes, while TPU shines in applications requiring flexibility and shock absorption.

Ultimately, your choice depends on the specific part’s function and the demands you expect it to handle. Experimenting with these materials will help you get the best performance out of your RC plane builds.

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