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Masterlass SZN 3 EP7- FDM vs. SLA 3D Printing – Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

Masterlass SZN 3 EP7- FDM vs. SLA 3D Printing – Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

FDM vs. SLA 3D Printing for RC: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

3D printing has completely changed the RC hobby. From custom mounts and control horns to scale details and repair parts, builders now have the power to create exactly what they need—right on the workbench. But not all 3D printers are created equal.

In this Masterclass, Joshua breaks down the two most common 3D printing technologies used by hobbyists today: FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and SLA (Stereolithography). Understanding how each works—and where each excels—will help you choose the right tool for your specific RC project.

Understanding FDM 3D Printing

How FDM Printing Works

FDM printers create parts by melting plastic filament and depositing it layer by layer onto a build plate. As each layer cools, it bonds to the one below it, gradually forming a solid part.

This is the most common and accessible type of 3D printing in the RC hobby due to its affordability, durability, and wide material selection.

Types of FDM Printers

Joshua explains two primary FDM printer designs:

  • Cartesian printers use a square build plate and move along X, Y, and Z axes. They are common, reliable, and easy to maintain.

  • Delta printers feature a round build plate and multiple arms working together. These machines are typically faster and often allow for larger print volumes, making them appealing for bigger RC parts.

FDM Filaments Explained

One of FDM’s biggest advantages is filament variety. Common materials include:

  • PLA – Easy to print and great for prototypes and non-structural parts

  • ABS – Stronger and more heat-resistant, but harder to print consistently

  • PETG – A balance of strength, flexibility, and ease of use

  • TPU – Flexible filament ideal for vibration-absorbing or impact-resistant parts

Joshua also highlights an important detail many beginners overlook: some filaments are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the air. Moist filament can cause weak prints and surface defects, so proper storage is critical.

Extruders and Material Compatibility

FDM printers use either:

  • Direct drive extruders, where the motor feeds filament directly into the hot end

  • Bowden tube systems, which push filament through a tube

Flexible materials like TPU require a direct drive extruder, as they cannot be reliably fed through a Bowden tube.

Bed Adhesion and Print Success

Getting a print to stick to the build plate is essential. Joshua discusses several proven methods, including:

  • ABS slurry (“ABS juice”)

  • Hairspray

  • Glue sticks

  • Heated beds

The right method depends on the filament being used and the printer setup.

Post-Processing FDM Prints

Because FDM prints are built layer by layer, visible layer lines (striations) are common. These can be reduced or eliminated using:

  • Sanding

  • Acetone smoothing (for ABS)

  • UV resin coatings to fill and smooth surfaces

These techniques are especially useful for scale RC parts where appearance matters.

Understanding SLA 3D Printing

How SLA Printing Works

SLA printers use UV-reactive liquid resin cured by a screen or laser. Each layer is hardened by light exposure, resulting in extremely high detail and smooth surfaces.

This makes SLA ideal for:

  • Small, intricate parts

  • Scale details

  • Fine surface finishes

SLA Resins and Durability

Not all resins are the same. Joshua explains that higher-quality resins tend to cost more but offer better strength and flexibility. Newer formulations—such as tough resins—have significantly improved durability, making SLA parts more practical for RC use than ever before.

Recommended 3D Printers for Hobbyists

Joshua shares several reliable printer options:

FDM Printers

  • Creality K1

  • Bambu Lab

  • Elegoo Centauri

  • Prusa

SLA Printers

  • Elegoo Saturn

  • Wash and cure stations for proper resin post-processing

These recommendations balance performance, reliability, and ease of use for hobbyists.

Finding 3D Models and Software

Where to Find 3D Models

Whether you’re printing RC parts or accessories, Joshua recommends several trusted resources:

  • Thingiverse

  • Printables

  • Cults 3D

  • CGTrader

  • NASA’s open-source 3D model library

These platforms offer both free and paid models suitable for RC applications.

CAD Software and Slicers

For designing or modifying parts, common tools include:

  • Fusion 360 – Advanced CAD design

  • Tinkercad – Beginner-friendly modeling

  • Meshmixer – Repairing and optimizing models

  • Chitubox – Slicing software for SLA printers

Understanding slicing software is essential, as it controls layer height, supports, and print quality.

FDM vs. SLA: Which Should RC Builders Choose?

The answer depends on your goals:

  • Choose FDM if you want durable parts, flexibility in materials, and lower operating costs

  • Choose SLA if you need ultra-fine detail, smooth finishes, and small precision components

Many experienced RC builders end up using both technologies, choosing the best one for each job.

Final Thoughts

3D printing opens up endless possibilities for RC modeling—but success starts with choosing the right technology. As this masterclass shows, understanding how FDM and SLA printers work, what materials they use, and how to post-process parts will lead to stronger, better-looking, and more reliable RC components.

At DU-BRO RC, we’re all about helping builders work smarter, customize freely, and push their projects further. With the right printer and the right knowledge, your next RC build is only a layer away.