Pla is the filament of choice for many 3D printing users. It’s lightweight, affordable, and comes in an astonishing array of colors. It handles well and has become the standard filament for the Maker community. But, like most filaments, it can be susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature. How to store PLA Filament. In this blog, we describe the best way to store PLA filament.
The Filament Storage
The Filament Storage or Facility Filament storage can be defined as any container or object that prevents your 3D filament material from absorbing water from the surrounding air (or vice versa). Dust does not settle on the filament as a result of this.
While cleaning the nozzle to solve the dust problem is acceptable, it is time-consuming and only temporary. Investing in filament storage is an excellent way to eliminate dust for good.
For a variety of reasons, having high-quality filament storage is essential. First, when your filament is not in use, it prevents dust from settling on it. That’s why it is very important everyone should know about how to store PLA filament.
It also helps to keep the filament from bubbling and clogging the nozzle. Inadequate filament storage can also result in diameter expansion. You’ll also avoid having your filament come into contact with water.
It is not necessary to immerse your filament in water in order for it to absorb water. As previously stated, when filaments are left out in the open, they can absorb moisture from the surrounding air. When water absorbs into the filament, it weakens and fails to produce the desired result.
For filament storage, there are a number of different options to choose from. A high-quality filament storage system is an excellent investment if you have a lot of extra cash on hand. You can also create your own improvised filament storage system.
You can also create your own makeshift filament storage. To avoid the effect of dust settling, you could also use a dust filter. However, it will not prevent the filament from becoming wet.
If you’re interested in different filament storage options, you should look into them. To begin, some options are readily available in both online and physical stores.
Other filament storage options, such as the Polymaker Polybox, the eSun eBox, the PrintDry Container, the Drying Cabinet, the Yodelbox, and others, are available online.
You can also save money by repurposing containers you already have. If you’re into recycling, repurposing, and the like, creating your own DIY filament storage is a great way to repurpose some of the old materials you have lying around the home.
Filament storage options include vacuum storage bags, plastic bags, desiccant and moisture indicator strips, an airtight roll container, and a heated drying box, among others. If you desire, you can include filament storage accessories in your storage mix.
These accessories will assist you in dealing with other factors that may cause your filament to deteriorate. Dust is another common factor that can endanger your filament. See how some of these bags keep your filament dry and dust-free by looking at some examples below. This is the most common trick used for how to store PLA filament.
Vacuum bags:
Vacuum bags are a perfect method of keeping the air out. They’re made specifically for storing filaments and can suck the air out of the bag, preventing your filament from absorbing moisture from the air. It is preferable to purchase vacuum-sealed bags.
The air is kept out by the vacuum valves. A double zipper mechanism should also be included in your vacuum bags to keep the bag free of air. The purpose of these vacuum bags is to keep air from penetrating your filament. In a vacuum bag, you can store at least four filament spools at a time.
Because vacuum bags are very cheap and a good option for many conditions. The truth is that no matter how hard you try to get the moisture out of your vacuum bag, it will still contain a small amount of moisture.
Dry Boxes:
Dry boxes are the best option for dealing with high levels of humidity. It’s perfect for keeping your filament free of moisture and humidity.
Dry boxes work by lowering the humidity level inside so that your filament can be preserved and protected.
Dry boxes use dehumidifier technology to remove excess humidity that could damage your filament. When you use your filament to print any object, it will produce high-quality prints because it will have less contact with air.
Polymaker Polybox:
This box can be used as a filament feeder as well as a dry box. The digital thermo-hygrometer that is linked to it gives you real-time information about the temperature and humidity levels in the container.
This polybox can only hold two 1kg spools at a time. The weight of a single spool is 2kg, so this polybox can only hold one spool at a time. Filament feeders are available for use with this box, which can feed filament directly to your printer. To facilitate this process, additional ports and neoprene tubing are made available.
PrintDry Filament Storage Container:
Unlike most other storage boxes, the PrintDry filament container is simply considered for use as a storage container for printed filament. It can be used to feed filament to a 3D printer.
Because it is airtight, this PrintDry box is ideal for storing filament because it prevents it from absorbing air and turning it into moisture. Put a packet of desiccant in this PrintDry filament for extra protection.
How to store PLA filament
There are a variety of ways to store PLA filament and other filaments. However, this step-by-step procedure demonstrates how to store filaments with low-cost materials.
Here’s what you’ll need.
- Gallon plastic storage bags with duct tape
- Desiccant packs for Permanent Marker Silica gel
The benefit of silica packs is that you can reuse them as often as you like. You’ll only need to dry them after using them because their job is to hold the rest of the moisture in filament storage. You can re-use them after drying them in the oven.
Conclusion:
Moisture is beneficial in other situations, but it is harmful to your filaments. As a result, you’ll need to find a storage solution that keeps moisture and air out. Fortunately, there are many options available for how to store PLA Filament.
When you use these storage options, you can store PLA filament and other filaments in a variety of ways. You can make filament storage out of spaces and containers that you didn’t know what to do with before. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to easily preserve your filament while also extending its lifespan.
