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MonoKote or Ultracote for 3D printed planes?


Let's face it, there are just some things that a 3d Printer cannot do. An ultra thin and ultra lightweight and strong film being one of them. Then there is the possibility of translucent materials. Many people get scared away from covering, but the truth is with a little direction you can achieve absolutely beautiful results quickly. I'm going to create a covering video series on my YouTube channel in the very near future so make sure to check it out and subscribe.


When I designed the ducted fan powered flying wing, I created a very strong 3D printable structure but I also created lightening holes because CG weight is critical especially for a wing. the intention is to use a covering film over the model. Seeing that we are working with thermoplastics in 3_D printing, a lower temp covering is best. Normally I gravitate toward Monokote because I simply prefer the quality and results, but the temps are just too high. Also some have noted problems with adhesion on 3D printed plastics. In my experience, however, no covering sticks better to anything else other than itself. Proper seaming is critical. Many have had success with Ultracote. Here's a link from Amazon:


Although it is an iron on film, and technically the good old household iron will do, I highly recommend investing in a covering iron with a Teflon coating. These irons have a much more manageable heating surface, they won't scratch the film, and the temperature is far more adjustable. Also, although a good job can be done with an iron only, a good quality heat gun makes the job even that much easier. In fact, when attempting to stretch covering over compound curves, there really is no better tool for the job. This is an Amazon link to a combo iron and heat gun.




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