How to DIY Filament Dryer

Introduction

Moisture is one of the biggest challenges for achieving high-quality 3D prints, as it can lead to stringing, bubbles, and rough surfaces. Over time, filament absorbs moisture from the air, which can severely compromise the printing process. This is particularly an issue with materials like nylon, PETG, and PVA, though PLA and ABS can also be affected. The good news? A well-designed filament drying box can help maintain filament quality by keeping it dry. This post explains why moisture control matters and how to set up your own drying box for optimal results.

Why Keeping Filament Moisture-Free Matters

Moisture in filament can lead to issues such as:

• Weak Layer Adhesion: Moisture causes poor layer bonding, resulting in weaker prints.
• Poor Surface Quality: Bubbles and stringing occur when moisture turns to steam inside the filament, impacting print quality.
• Nozzle Clogging: Filament with high moisture can clog or jam extruder nozzles, leading to inconsistent extrusion.
• Warping and Cracking: Materials like nylon and PVA are particularly moisture-sensitive and can warp or crack if not dried properly.

Using a drying box to protect filament is essential, especially if you live in a humid environment or use hygroscopic materials. A drying box keeps filament at a controlled humidity level and prevents moisture from being absorbed before and during the printing process.

Key Differences: Dry Box vs. Dryer Box

How to DIY a filament Dryer

1. DIY Filament Drying Box

 Kingroon Filament Dry Box-Buy

Building a DIY drying box can be budget-friendly and just as effective. Here’s how to make one:

1. Gather Materials:
   • Storage Container: Use an airtight storage container large enough to hold the filament spool. Look for containers with rubber seals to ensure airtightness.
   • Desiccant: Silica gel packets or reusable desiccant packs absorb moisture inside the container. Desiccant packets are available in various sizes to suit different container capacities.
   • Hydrometer: A digital or analog hydrometer measures the humidity level inside the container.
   • Filament Spool Holder: A simple 3D-printed or PVC spool holder works well to let the filament rotate easily.
   • Optional - Heater: If you want to actively dry the filament, use a low-temperature heater or modified food dehydrator.
2. Prepare the Container: Place desiccant packets inside the container to maintain a low humidity level. Add a hydrometer so you can monitor moisture levels at a glance.
3. Mount the Spool Holder: Install a spool holder inside the container so that the filament can rotate easily when pulled.
4. Seal the Box: Ensure the container is sealed tightly. To feed filament into your 3D printer, you may drill a small hole for the filament to pass through, using a small PTFE tube to prevent outside air from entering.
5. Monitor and Replace Desiccant: Over time, the desiccant will absorb moisture and become less effective. Replace it or regenerate reusable desiccant by drying it in an oven at a low temperature every few months.

2. Commercial Filament Drying Box

Kingroon FIlament Dryer

Several manufacturers offer dedicated filament dryers, which are designed to work right out of the box. These include products like the eSUN eBox, Sunlu Dryer, and PrintDry filament dryers.

1. Place the Filament Inside: Open the filament drying box and load the spool onto the holder or designated area inside.
2. Set the Temperature: Most commercial dryers allow you to adjust the temperature based on the type of filament. Common drying temperatures include:
   • PLA: 40-45°C
   • PETG: 60-65°C
   • Nylon: 70-80°C
3. Adjust the Timer: Some boxes let you set a timer for how long you want to dry the filament, ranging from a few hours to overnight for heavily saturated filament.
4. Attach the Filament Guide: Attach the box’s filament guide, so the filament can feed directly into the printer. This setup ensures the filament stays dry throughout the printing process.

Commercial drying boxes often include humidity sensors, automatic shut-off timers, and temperature regulation, making them convenient for users who frequently print in humid environments.

Step by step of DIY Filament Dryer

Selecting the Right Size for Your Filament Drying Box and Calculating Desiccant Needs

The size of your filament drying box is important, as it needs to comfortably fit your spools while allowing for effective moisture control. Here’s how to pick the right size and determine the appropriate amount of desiccant for optimal filament preservation.

Choosing the Right Box Size

1. Single Spool Boxes: If you only need to dry or store one filament roll at a time, choose a box slightly larger than the spool, typically about 5-7 liters. This size is efficient for small setups and makes it easier to manage humidity levels with a minimal amount of desiccant.
2. Multi-Spool Boxes: For users with larger 3D printing setups, a box of around 15-25 liters can hold multiple spools, typically accommodating 4-5 standard filament rolls. Make sure there’s enough space for a spool holder, desiccant packs, and a hydrometer, with some room around each spool for airflow.
3. Desiccant Calculation: As a general rule, use 1.5-2 grams of desiccant per liter of container space. For instance:
   • 5-7 Liter Box(Single Spool): Requires around 10-14 grams of desiccant.
   • 15-25 Liter Box(Multi-Spool): Needs about 30-50 grams of desiccant.
4. These amounts can vary based on humidity levels in your environment. If you live in a highly humid area, consider adding a bit more desiccant to ensure the box remains at an ideal low-humidity level.

Replenishing the Desiccant

Most desiccants need to be refreshed or replaced periodically as they absorb moisture. In humid climates, check your desiccant every 2-3 months. Many desiccants can be “recharged” by drying them in an oven at a low temperature, which restores their effectiveness and saves costs over time.

Best Types of Desiccant for Filament Storage

Choosing the right type of desiccant is crucial for maintaining an effective drying environment inside your filament storage box. Here are some popular options and tips on using them effectively.

Silica Gel

Silica gel is the most common type of desiccant used for filament drying and storage. It’s highly effective, affordable, and available in various forms, such as small packets, beads, or loose granules. Silica gel is suitable for most filament types and has a high moisture-absorbing capacity.

• Application: Place packets of silica gel around your spools or in a mesh bag inside the drying box.
• Rechargeable Option: Silica gel is often available as color-changing beads that indicate when they’re saturated (typically turning from blue to pink or orange to green). Recharge by drying in the oven at around 120°C (248°F) for 1-2 hours.

Activated Clay

Activated clay is a natural desiccant that absorbs moisture more slowly than silica gel or calcium chloride but is still effective in maintaining a dry environment for filament. It’s popular for long-term storage as it doesn’t require frequent replacement.

• Application: Use small pouches of activated clay inside the drying box, positioning them around the spools for consistent moisture absorption.
• Rechargeable: Like silica gel, activated clay can be dried out in an oven for re-use, making it an eco-friendly option.

Rechargeable Color-Changing Desiccants

Rechargeable, color-changing desiccants are highly convenient for filament storage, as they make it easy to monitor when the desiccant is saturated. These desiccants usually come in the form of silica gel beads and change color based on moisture levels. Common color-changing indicators include:

• Blue to Pink: Blue beads turn pink when they’re fully saturated with moisture.
• Orange to Green: Orange beads change to green when they’ve absorbed maximum moisture.

Using color-changing desiccants in a filament drying box provides a visible indicator of when it’s time to recharge, helping you maintain an optimal low-humidity environment without the need to measure moisture levels frequently.

Recharging Process:

• Place the desiccant in a low-heat oven at around 100-120°C (212-248°F) for 1-2 hours or until the color returns to its dry state.
• Allow the desiccant to cool before placing it back in the airtight box.

Popular Products:

• Dry & Dry Silica Gel Beads: A popular brand offering color-changing silica gel with an indicator that’s reliable and easy to recharge.
• Wisedry Color Changing Desiccant Packs: These come in small packets and are designed for convenient filament drying.

Choosing Moisture-Resistant Containers for DIY Filament Drying and Storage

The container you choose for filament storage is crucial, as it must be airtight to effectively keep out moisture and maintain a controlled environment for the filament. Fortunately, there are several good options, both DIY and off-the-shelf, that are readily available and can suit various storage needs. Here’s a guide to help you select the best container for your setup.

Off-the-Shelf Moisture-Resistant Containers

Off-the-shelf containers are often the simplest solution for filament storage, as they are specifically designed to be airtight and are sometimes equipped with additional features that make them perfect for filament storage.

1. IKEA Samla Box with Lid

• Features: The IKEA Samla series provides transparent plastic containers in various sizes, perfect for seeing your filament without opening the lid. With an airtight seal, it’s an affordable option for single or multi-spool storage.
• DIY Enhancements: You can add desiccant packets, a small hydrometer, and even a spool holder for easy access.
• Ideal For: Users needing a simple, inexpensive, moisture-resistant storage solution.

2. Weatherproof Storage Containers (e.g., IRIS Weathertight Box)

• Features: These containers are designed to protect against moisture and dust, making them highly effective for filament storage. They come in various sizes, with the 30-50 quart versions ideal for multi-spool setups.
• Seal Type: They include rubber gaskets for a firm seal, keeping humidity at bay.
• Ideal For: Users in humid climates or those needing a versatile storage container that is easy to move.

3. PrintDry Filament Storage Container

• Features: Designed specifically for filament storage, PrintDry containers are stackable and have a gasket seal for added moisture protection. Many models feature a port for direct filament feeding, so you can print directly from the container without opening it.
• Additional Accessories: These containers often come with desiccant packs and hydrometers for humidity control.
• Ideal For: Frequent 3D printing users looking for an easy-to-use, specialized filament storage box.

4. Snapware Airtight Plastic Containers

URL: https://a.co/d/cO9XqiG

• Features: Snapware containers have secure latching systems with rubber gaskets, offering a reliable seal for filament storage. Available in various sizes, they’re an affordable option for multi-spool storage.
• Customization: Place desiccant packs and a spool holder inside, and drill a small hole to feed filament directly if needed.
• Ideal For: Users seeking a budget-friendly, stackable option with excellent moisture resistance.

DIY Filament Storage Containers

DIY storage containers allow for customization based on specific needs and can often be a more affordable option. Here are some popular and effective DIY solutions.

1. Airtight Food Storage Containers

• Features: Large airtight food storage containers are perfect for single-spool storage. Containers like the Rubbermaid Brillianceor Oxo Pop Containers feature airtight seals and are transparent, allowing you to monitor filament without opening the lid.
• DIY Enhancements: Add desiccant packs and a small hydrometer inside. For direct printing, drill a small hole in the container and add a PTFE tube to guide the filament.
• Ideal For: Hobbyists looking for a compact, single-spool solution with good visibility.

2. Large Storage Buckets with Gasket Lids

• Features: Industrial-grade storage buckets (5-10 gallons) with gasket lids are excellent for multi-spool storage, providing a highly effective moisture barrier. These are often used for food storage and are inexpensive.
• DIY Enhancements: Add desiccant packs and an internal spool holder, and consider adding a PTFE feed tube for easy filament access without opening the bucket. Adding a weatherproof seal inside the rim of the lid may be necessary if it doesn't already have a seal.
• Ideal For: Those with larger 3D printing setups who want an affordable, heavy-duty storage solution.

3. Home Vacuum Sealer Bags and Containers

• Features: Vacuum-sealable storage bags and containers create a low-humidity environment by removing air from the storage space. While typically used for food, these are also great for filament storage, as they prevent any new air (and thus moisture) from entering.
• DIY Tips: Use a food-grade desiccant packet inside the bag or container. To create a reusable setup, choose containers rather than bags.
• Ideal For: Users in very humid climates or those storing filament for extended periods, ensuring near-zero moisture exposure.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Moisture-Resistant Container

1. Size and Capacity: Select a container large enough to hold your filament spools comfortably. Multi-spool setups benefit from larger containers or storage buckets, while single-spool storage may only require small airtight food containers.
2. Transparency: Transparent containers make it easy to check filament without opening the lid, allowing you to monitor both filament condition and desiccant status.
3. Ease of Modification: Choose a container that allows easy modifications for desiccant placement, spool holders, and hydrometers. Containers with rubber seals or gaskets are easy to drill into for creating feed holes if you want to print directly from the box.
4. Portability and Stackability: Off-the-shelf containers often have the added benefit of stackability and portability, useful for organized storage or moving between printing locations.

Adding a PTFE Tube to a Filament Dry Box for Direct Dispensing

Kingroon PTFE Tube-Buy

Connecting a filament dry box directly to your 3D printer through a PTFE tube is an excellent way to maintain low humidity around your filament even during printing. This setup reduces the chances of moisture exposure every time you open the box, ensuring your filament remains in optimal condition throughout the print process. In this section, we’ll cover how to add a PTFE tube to your dry box using a pneumatic coupler, and why this setup is beneficial for moisture control.

Benefits of Using a PTFE Tube for Direct Dispensing

• Continuous Dry Environment: With a direct feed, the filament remains inside the dry box, minimizing exposure to external moisture even as it’s dispensed.
• Reduced Friction and Tangling: PTFE tubing creates a low-friction pathway from the dry box to the printer, preventing filament tangling and ensuring a smooth feed.
• Print Quality Improvement: Since the filament stays dry, issues related to moisture (such as stringing, bubbling, and poor layer adhesion) are minimized, resulting in higher quality prints.

Setting Up a PTFE Tube and Pneumatic Coupler for Direct Dispensing

Materials Needed

1. PTFE Tube: A length of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) tubing, commonly used in 3D printing, is ideal for creating a low-friction, moisture-resistant path for your filament.
2. Pneumatic Coupler (PC4-M6 or PC4-M10): This threaded coupler is designed to secure PTFE tubing to the box wall, creating an airtight seal that prevents moisture from entering the box.
3. Drill and Drill Bit: You’ll need a drill to create a hole for the pneumatic coupler. The bit size should match the coupler's diameter for a snug fit.
4. Wrench: To secure the coupler into place, especially if it requires a tight fit.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose a Location on the Dry Box: Decide where you want the PTFE tube to exit the dry box. Ideally, choose a spot close to the printer to keep the PTFE tube length as short as possible. Ensure the chosen location provides an easy filament path to the printer without bending or stressing the filament.
2. Drill a Hole for the Pneumatic Coupler:
   • Select a drill bit that matches the coupler’s threaded size. For a PC4-M6 coupler, a 6mm drill bit is typically needed; for a PC4-M10, use a 10mm drill bit.
   • Drill the hole in the chosen spot, making sure it’s centered and clean to avoid any leaks or cracks.
3. Install the Pneumatic Coupler:
   • Insert the threaded end of the pneumatic coupler into the drilled hole.
   • Use a wrench to secure it tightly, ensuring an airtight seal around the coupler. This prevents any air from entering and affecting the dry environment inside the box.
4. Connect the PTFE Tube:
   • Insert one end of the PTFE tube into the pneumatic coupler, pressing it firmly until it locks into place.
   • Run the PTFE tube from the dry box directly to your 3D printer’s extruder or filament holder. If the printer has a filament sensor, guide the tube to it.
   • Ensure that the PTFE tube path is straight and smooth to avoid unnecessary friction.
5. Check for Airtightness:
   • Test the setup by gently pulling the PTFE tube to confirm it’s securely locked into the coupler.
   • Inspect the coupler and surrounding area to make sure there are no gaps or leaks where air could enter.
6. Attach Filament and Feed into the Printer:
   • Insert the filament into the PTFE tube from within the dry box, feeding it directly through the tube to the extruder.
   • This direct path minimizes the filament’s exposure to external humidity, maintaining a controlled, dry filament environment from storage to printing.

3D Printed Dry Boxes: Customizable Solutions for Filament Storage

For DIY enthusiasts, creating a custom 3D printed dry box offers an affordable and highly customizable way to protect filament from moisture. These boxes can be tailored to specific needs, allowing for unique designs, features, and compatibility with various filament sizes. A 3D printed dry box can range from simple desiccant chambers to complex, multi-spool enclosures with integrated PTFE tubing for direct printing.

Model Download

Advantages of 3D Printed Dry Boxes

1. Customizability: 3D printing allows you to tailor the design to fit specific filament spool sizes, quantities, and setups. You can print compartments for desiccants, holders for hygrometers, and ports for filament dispensing.
2. Affordable and Accessible: Using PLA or PETG filament, you can create a moisture-resistant dry box at a fraction of the cost of some commercial boxes, particularly for multi-spool setups.
3. Modular Design: With 3D printing, you can make modular dry box components. For instance, you could create stackable units, compartments for various filament types, or removable desiccant trays, making it easy to expand as your filament collection grows.

Essential Features to Add to a 3D Printed Dry Box

Here are some common features to consider adding to your 3D printed dry box to ensure effective moisture protection and easy filament handling:

1. Airtight Sealing Mechanisms:
   • To keep moisture out, 3D printed dry boxes typically need some form of airtight seal. Rubber gaskets or silicone sealing tape can be added around the box edges or lids.
   • Snap-fit lids or screw-on tops (modeled with threads) can also help achieve a secure fit, especially when paired with gaskets.
2. Desiccant Chambers:
   • Design small compartments or slots within the box to hold silica gel packets or loose desiccant beads.
   • Removable desiccant trays are popular in 3D printed dry boxes as they allow easy access for replacing or recharging desiccant.
3. PTFE Tube Ports for Direct Dispensing:
   • Including ports for PTFE tubing enables you to dispense filament directly to the 3D printer without opening the box, maintaining a dry environment.
   • A 3D printable design with built-in pneumatic coupler mounts can secure the PTFE tubing and create an airtight seal.
4. Filament Guide and Spool Holders:
   • Integrated spool holders allow filament to rotate freely inside the box, reducing tangling and ensuring smooth feed. These can be designed as rods or rollers to keep spools in place.
   • Filament guides can be printed to guide the filament path through the PTFE tubing, ensuring a smooth feed.
5. Humidity Monitoring with Hygrometer Mounts:
   • Many 3D printed dry boxes include mounts for digital or analog hygrometers, which allow you to easily monitor internal humidity levels.
   • A clear cover over the hygrometer or a window within the box design can make it easier to check humidity levels without opening the box.

Popular Designs for 3D Printed Dry Boxes

1. Single-Spool Dry Boxes: These are simple boxes designed to store and feed one filament spool, ideal for users with limited storage needs. Some popular single-spool designs include printable lids with embedded desiccant trays and PTFE tube ports.
2. Multi-Spool Dry Boxes: These boxes are larger, often incorporating separate compartments for each spool or a central holder that can accommodate multiple rolls. Multi-spool designs frequently feature stackable elements or modular trays for easy organization.
3. Stackable Modular Boxes: Modular dry boxes can be designed to stack, with each module capable of storing a single spool. Each module has a desiccant slot and filament feed port, allowing for multiple types of filament to be stored together while remaining easily accessible.
4. Temperature-Resistant Boxes for DIY Filament Dryers:
   • Some DIY enthusiasts design 3D printed dry boxes using temperature-resistant materials like PETG or ABS, combined with heating elements (such as repurposed food dehydrators or small ceramic heaters) to actively dry filament.
   • While more advanced, these setups can provide drying capabilities similar to commercial filament dryers, especially for hygroscopic filaments like nylon and TPU.

Materials to Use for 3D Printed Dry Boxes

• PETG: Known for its durability and moisture resistance, PETG is ideal for printing dry boxes. It’s also moderately heat-resistant, which is beneficial if the dry box is placed in a warm environment.
• ABS: ABS is both heat-resistant and moisture-resistant, making it suitable for filament storage. However, printing ABS may require an enclosed printer due to its tendency to warp.
• PLA: While easy to print, PLA is not inherently moisture-resistant and may deform if exposed to higher temperatures. However, PLA can be useful for creating dry boxes stored in controlled environments with moderate temperatures.

There are two main options for a filament drying box: purchasing a commercially available one or building your own. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you with both.