X470
The world's first fully 3D printed hydraulic excavator.
What Is It
A World First in 3D Printing
The X470 is a 1/16 scale RC hydraulic excavator featuring a completely 3D printed hydraulic system - including the pump, valves, and pistons. It is the first model of its kind ever made. Part of the TWYN range of fully 3D printed heavy vehicle scale models.
Fully 3D Printed Hydraulics
The X470's hydraulic system is entirely 3D printed - the pump, valves, and pistons are all produced on a standard FDM printer. The system operates with Johnson baby oil (a synthetic mineral oil) and delivers serious performance: each piston generates up to 12 kg of force at a working pressure of 10 bar.
With the arm fully extended, the X470 can lift up to 1.5 kg - all from a hydraulic system made entirely of PLA.
Features
Built for the Advanced Maker
The X470 is a complex, rewarding project that pushes the boundaries of what FDM 3D printing can do.
3D Printed Hydraulics
Complete hydraulic system - pump, valves, and pistons - all printed on an FDM printer. A world first.
BLDC Motors
High-quality BLDC motors for the pump, swing, and tracks. Travel motors powered via a 4-pin audio jack.
Battery Counterweight
The 4S LiFePo4 battery doubles as the counterweight - functional and weight-accurate.
Strength Through Design
Structural rigidity achieved through good design alone - no metal plates or bars for reinforcement.
Realistic Cabin
Detailed cockpit with functional cabin and work lights for an authentic look.
No Painting Required
Printed in Esun PLA across 5 recommended colors - Orange, Dark Grey, Light Grey, Transparent, White, and Black.
Materials & Build Details
Pistons are made with aluminum pipes and 3D printed end-caps. PU tubes are used for hydraulic tubing. The model is printed using Esun PLA in 5 recommended colors. Glass bed-printed mating surfaces provide improved hydraulic integrity.
While the 3.8 kg weight is lighter than a metal equivalent (a real 47-ton excavator at 1/16 scale would weigh ~11.47 kg), the X470 is remarkably strong for a model made entirely of PLA.
Watch It Work
Build Video
Get the Files
The X470 is an advanced build - not for the faint of heart. It requires significant time, patience, and expertise to build. The 3D printed hydraulics are a world's first and have never been done before, making this model more complex than typical 3D printed projects.