Moisture’s Problems for 3D Printing Filament
Most 3D printer filaments are hygroscopic, or they absorb moisture from the surroundings. Materials especially vulnerable include PLA, PETG, Nylon, and TPU. Moisture can bring about the following:
- Cause the nozzle to bubble or ooze.
- Increase layer adhesion or decrease stringing.
- Create delicate or weak prints.
- Create an inconsistent extrusion.
Humidity in the air—even at normal ambient levels—can degrade the print quality of the filament. Preserving filament with a desiccant is highly crucial, particularly if you reside in a humid location. A drying substance called a desiccant works by drawing water molecules from its environment.
Types of Desiccants
In 3D printing, desiccants are stored within dry boxes or filament storage bins to keep filament moisture-free. Among the most common desiccants are:
- Silica Gel
- Most typically used drying tool
- Makes up 30 to 40% of its weight in water
- Non-toxic and reusable (can be recharged)
- Calcium Chloride
- Quite interesting
- Often located in wet environments
- Could eventually dissolve (need control)
- Molecular Sieves
- Though with low humidity, great absorption capacity
- Ideal for fragile materials including Nylon
- More expensive than silica gel
Benefits of Using a Desiccant for Your 3D Printer
Filament Gets Rid of Print Flaws
Moisture causes stringing, popping, and layer separation. Desiccants help to stop these problems.
Extends Filament Life
A dry filament lasts longer and maintains its structural integrity.
Print Strength is Increased
Dry filament improves interlayer adhesion, hence enhancing mechanical properties.
Lowers Expenses
Keeping filament leads to less waste and fewer erroneous prints.
Top 3D Printing Desiccants for Hobbyists
These tried-and-true desiccant options will help to protect filament:
- Packets of Dry & Dry Silica Gel
- Available in numbers
- Options suggesting hue
- Oven rechargeable in two to three hours, 250 degrees Fahrenheit
- Eva-dry E-333 Mini Dehumidifier
- Sustainable
- Perfect for filament dry boxes, plugless, rechargeable device
- It lasts 20–30 days between recharges.
- Moisture Absorber for Thirsty Hippo
- Excellent for extremely humid environments
- Uses calcium chloride
- Requires consistent substitution
- Molecular Sieve Beads
- For advanced users
- Excellent for Nylon and PVA filaments
- It even functions well in 20% humidity.
- Rechargeable Silica Gel Canisters
- Many times can be used
- Usually feature color indicators (orange to green).
- Simple to recharge in the oven
Using 3D Printer Filaments with Desiccants
Step One: Choose Airtight Storage
Think of utilizing airtight containers like:
- Lock & Lock jars
- Vacuum-sealed bags
- Filament dry boxes—e.g., Polymaker, Sunlu
Step Two: Insert Desiccants Within
Spread the desiccant evenly to ensure it doesn’t directly contact the filament except in sealed packs.
Step Three: Monitor Humidity
Monitor RH levels using a digital hygrometer. For sensitive fillets like Nylon, aim to maintain it at about 15%.
Step Four: Desiccants Should Be Replaced or Recharged
- Silica gel: Change hue to reset
- Calcium chloride: Substitute if liquified
- Molecular sieve: Reactivate by heating
Expert Recommendations to Maximize Desiccant Effectiveness
- Use Vacuum-Sealed Bags
Often with space for desiccant packs, these bags feature valves for easy air removal. - Track RH with Bluetooth Sensors
Monitor humidity trends with Bluetooth-enabled hygrometers, such as Govee Smart sensors. - Combine Using Filament Dryers
Combine desiccants with active drying methods, including filament dryers, for optimal results. - Filament Spool Rotation
Use older spools first and reseal after every use to decrease moisture exposure.
READ MORE – The Ultimate Guide to Darkest Gray 3D Printer Filament
FAQs:
What is the best desiccant for the filament of 3D printers?
Silica gel is the most commonly used and cheapest desiccant. For especially sensitive fibers like Nylon or PVA, molecular sieves offer more moisture absorption at lower humidity levels.
How often should I replace desiccant packs?
Your storage container and environment decide. Most silica gel packs need recharging after two to four weeks of use in humid environments. Look for signals that change color.
Can I store filament using desiccant once more?
Of course, several desiccants are reusable. They will be recharged by heating silica gel and molecular sieves in an oven at 250°F (120°C) for many hours.
Do I need desiccant if my dryer is filament?
Though a filament dryer reduces moisture during printing preparation, long-term storage still calls for desiccants to prevent reabsorption.
Where in the filament container should I place desiccant?
Place them under or next to the filament, ensuring they do not hinder the spool movement. Spread them out to ensure optimal absorption.
Conclusion:
A desiccant for 3D printer filament is a necessary tool for preserving your investment and ensuring consistent, high-quality prints, not a nice-to-have addition. Filaments being moisture-absorbing make the usage of desiccants like silica gel, molecular sieves, or calcium chloride a means to prevent costly and bothersome print failures.
Choose a desiccant appropriate for your filament type and printing environment, store your spools in sealed containers, and regularly monitor humidity. These simple steps help to extend filament life and greatly enhance your 3D printing experience.