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3D Printed Drone Floaty: Keep Your FPV Rig From Sinking

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Losing a drone to a lake or the ocean is every pilot’s nightmare. While waterproof drones exist, most FPV rigs aren’t designed for water recovery. That’s where this simple 3D printed floaty comes in. It won’t make your drone land on water like pontoons, but it will keep it from sinking to the bottom.

Why Use a Floaty?

If you crash over water, your quad will still get submerged, but instead of sinking out of reach, it will float on the surface for an easy recovery. This gives you a chance to save your drone and recover some of your expensive components.

Key Features

  • Lightweight Design: Weighs only 38 grams, so it won’t add much to your drone.

  • Mounts Easily: Installs using your existing battery strap with no permanent mods.

  • Durable Material: Printed in PETG for strength and water resistance. TPU might also be a good choice for added flexibility.

  • Proven Performance: Tested to hold up to 350 grams without sinking.

  • Water Protection: Conformal coat your electronics before flying over water for extra safety.

What You’ll Need

  • 3D Printed Bracket: designed for 2" styrofoam cylinder. Download here

  • 2" Diameter x 6" Long Styrofoam Cylinder: Amazon link

  • Gorilla Glue: recommended because it won’t melt the foam

Assembly Instructions

  1. Print the Bracket: in PETG or TPU for best results.

  2. Slide the Styrofoam Cylinder: into the bracket.

  3. Apply Glue: Run a bead of Gorilla Glue between the plastic ring ends.

  4. Rotate the Cylinder: so the glue coats the entire circumference.

  5. Let It Cure: Allow the adhesive to fully set before flying.

Pro Tips

  • Make Sure It’s Fastened Securely: Attach it firmly to the drone so it won’t fall off in a crash.

  • Add Conformal Coating: This is a must to protect your electronics if they get wet.

  • Test Before You Fly: Use some weights and a bucket of water to make sure it will float your drone.

This simple mod is a cheap insurance policy for water flights. Whether you’re cruising over a lake or capturing shots at the beach, this floaty can save you from a total loss.