Designing Printed Motor Mounts for RC Planes: A Practical Guide

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Introduction

Building or upgrading your RC plane can be a rewarding experience, especially when you design and print your own motor mounts. A well-designed motor mount ensures your motor is securely held in place, aligned properly, and can withstand vibrations and stresses during flight. This guide will walk you through the key steps and considerations for designing printed motor mounts tailored for RC planes.

Why Print Your Own Motor Mount?

3D printing your motor mount allows you to customise the fit for your specific motor and airframe. It’s also a cost-effective way to replace damaged parts or create unique designs that aren’t available off the shelf. For UK hobbyists, local printing services or home printers make this approach accessible and fast.

Key Design Considerations

When designing a motor mount, keep these points in mind:

  • Compatibility: Match the mount to your motor’s bolt pattern and shaft diameter.
  • Material Strength: Use durable filaments like PETG or ABS for better heat and impact resistance.
  • Ventilation: Ensure there’s enough airflow around the motor for cooling.
  • Weight: Keep the mount lightweight to avoid negatively affecting flight performance.
  • Mounting Points: Design holes or slots for secure attachment to your plane’s frame.
  • Vibration Dampening: Consider integrating rubber grommets or flexible sections to reduce vibrations.

Step-by-Step Design Process

1. Measure Your Motor and Frame

Use calipers to get precise measurements of your motor’s mounting holes, shaft size, and the space available on your plane. Accurate dimensions are crucial for a snug fit.

2. Choose Your Design Software

Popular options like Fusion 360, Tinkercad, or FreeCAD work well. If you’re new to CAD, Tinkercad is beginner-friendly and web-based.

3. Model the Mount

Start with a base plate matching your motor’s bolt pattern. Add arms or brackets that connect the base to the airframe mount points. Make sure to leave clearance for the motor shaft and propeller.

4. Add Features for Strength and Function

Include fillets (rounded edges) to reduce stress points. Add ribs or gussets to reinforce the structure without adding much weight. Design ventilation holes if needed.

5. Export and Print

Export your model as an STL file and slice it with settings suitable for strength: use at least 3-4 perimeter walls, 20-30% infill, and a layer height of 0.2mm for good detail. Print with PETG or ABS for durability.

Tips for Success

  • Test-fit your mount with the motor before final installation.
  • Use thread inserts or nuts embedded in the print for stronger screw connections.
  • Consider printing in multiple parts if your printer’s build volume is limited.
  • Balance the motor and propeller after mounting to reduce vibrations during flight.
  • Keep the mount as close to the centreline of the plane as possible for better handling.

Conclusion

Designing and printing your own motor mounts opens up new possibilities for customisation and repair in your RC plane projects. With careful measurement, attention to material choice, and thoughtful design, you can create mounts that are strong, lightweight, and perfectly suited to your setup. Happy flying!

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