Does it take more servo torque to operate a CA Hinge? Do they last as long as a Pinned Hinge? Is there a difference in performance between the CA and Pinned in a 3D plane? I am building my first 3D plane (Seagull Harrier). I have used Pinned Hinges in the past (Easysport) with no problem, but on the Seagull, the sawdust can be seen through the transparent covering when I use my slot tool to accept the Pinned Hinge.

Properly installed I would say a pinned hinge has less resistance, but negligibly so. Remember when a control surface is in flight the pressure of the air flow against the surface is what the serfo is fighting, not so much the hinge. And most deflections are fractions of an inch.

Anyway, a bad pinned install - tipped, canted, glue in the seam, binding, etc. is MUCH worse than a CA hinge.

I have a plane with CA hinges that is 14 years old and the hinges are still good. But it is not a 3-D plane.

I have used CA hinges on 3-D planes and not had a problem either.

Servo torque is not an issue. The airflow over the surface is putting WAY more strain on the servo than the hinges ever will.

Re: The sawdust issue - Unless you use an exacto knife, you will get sawdust regardless of which type of hinge you use. Even drilling a hole for Robart pinned hinges is liable to leave some sawdust behind. So if that really bothers you, cut slots with an Xacto knife and use CA hinges.