Many 3D printing enthusiasts use dry boxes to store their filament, believing it protects against moisture. While dry boxes offer some benefit, it’s crucial to understand their limitations, especially when compared to dedicated 3d Printer Filament Dryers. A dry box primarily slows down moisture absorption; it doesn’t actively remove existing moisture or completely prevent intake, making it insufficient for certain materials and humid environments. Even sophisticated systems like AMS are essentially dry boxes and share these limitations.
For some materials, particularly hygroscopic ones like Nylon, a dry box is simply not enough. Printing Nylon optimally often necessitates using a 3d printer filament dryer throughout the entire printing process. High humidity conditions further exacerbate this need, making a dryer indispensable.
However, not all filaments react to moisture in the same way. For instance, some formulations of PETG are remarkably resistant to moisture, while others are highly sensitive. Certain brands of PETG, like Devil Design and Extrudr, can quickly exhibit foaming issues if left outside a dry environment, even overnight. PLA, in its pure form, generally shows good moisture resistance. However, filled PLAs, such as those containing fibers or carbon fiber, can become more susceptible, although some exceptions exist like BL PLA-CF which appears relatively robust. Despite claims to the contrary, even “hygroscopic” PETG can often be adequately stored and used with just a dry box and desiccant in moderately humid conditions.
The effectiveness of a dry box largely depends on ambient humidity. In environments with humidity levels around 50-70%, or higher after rain or cleaning, the limitations of a dry box become apparent. Conversely, in very dry rooms with humidity levels around 30%, some users might find they can use moisture-sensitive filaments like PETG without drying, though materials like PA/Nylon will still require proper drying.
For effective filament drying, dedicated 3d printer filament dryers like the Sunlu S2 can be valuable. However, even with dryers, optimization might be needed. For example, with the Sunlu S2, periodically opening the box during the drying cycle to vent moisture can enhance drying efficiency. Regularly refreshing the desiccant in dry boxes and occasionally using an oven to thoroughly dry filaments are also good practices.
A critical point to remember is that placing a moist filament spool into any dry box, regardless of the amount of desiccant, doesn’t magically transform it into a dryer. A 3d printer filament dryer actively works to remove moisture, while a dry box is primarily a preventative measure. Understanding this distinction is key to ensuring successful 3D printing, especially with moisture-sensitive materials.
