Fr Robert Ballecer, SJ Bryan Burnett #Feedback : Would you consider the prospect of making re...

[G+_Joel G. J]

Fr. Robert Ballecer, SJ Bryan Burnett  #Feedback  : Would you consider the prospect of making replacement props via 3d printing? What would be your argument against it?

 

After stating your argument, Check this out: http://makezine.com/2014/07/16/make-a-working-quadcopter-propeller-with-a-3d-printing-pen/

http://makezine.com/2014/07/16/make-a-working-quadcopter-propeller-with-a-3d-printing-pen

[G+_Fr. Robert Ballecer, SJ]

The main argument against it would be:

 

1. Balancing might become REALLY difficult

2. Death and destruction at high RPM.

[G+_Mark Messiha]

Fr. Robert Ballecer, SJ so if engineering is the problem I wonder if you could (somehow) find a 3d file for a larger prop developed by a aeronautics company or something and then scale it down (let the record show that I am a out of work 3d modeler that has little knowledge of engineering.)

[G+_Joel G. J]

Fr. Robert Ballecer, SJ : Maybe mention this in the next show for all those who were thinking about it during last week's props segment. 

[G+_610GARAGE]

Mark Messiha  Its not really an engineering problem, its an execution problem. Under high speeds, the props are under great stress, if there is one defect in the prop, it can shatter. Unfortunately, 3d printers don't make injection molded quality parts. If an air bubble forms, it can create a weak spot, and the blade shatters. Also 3d printers aren't all that accurate. A good mold will be milled with very high precision in a cnc mill (probably around .0001" or greater accuracy). The inaccuracy of a 3d printer can cause the prop to be out of balance. If the prop is even slightly out of balance, it can lead to high vibrations (which can destroy the quad). These high vibrations can also cause the prop to shatter.

[G+_Bryan Burnett]

Yeah I second 610bob , I like the idea of 3d printing props, but structural rigidity would be my concern. Now maybe 3d printing a frame that saves weight would be cool.

[G+_Eddie Foy]

balancing!!!!  That and the layer to layer adhesion isn't that great.  Nope.  Wouldn't do it.