How to Tell If Filament is Wet (And the Best Ways to Dry It!)

About this video

• Video Title: How to Tell If Filament is Wet (And the Best Ways to Dry It!)
• Channel: LayerLab
• Speakers: None listed
• Duration: 00:10:58

Overview

This video explains how to identify wet 3D printing filament and provides various methods for drying it, ranging from low-cost DIY solutions to purpose-built filament dryers. It also discusses the pros and cons of different drying techniques and offers tips for maintaining filament dryness.

Key takeaways

• Identifying Wet Filament: Two methods are presented:
  • Snapping Method: Bending the filament; if it snaps easily, it's likely wet. This method is not always reliable.
  • Extrusion Method: Extruding filament and listening for popping/sizzling sounds and observing for small blobs, indicating moisture.
• Low-Cost Drying Methods:
  • Printer Drying Box: Using a cardboard box with holes and the printer's heated bed (around 60°C/140°F) for an hour.
  • Oven Drying: Placing the spool on a rack in an oven at a controlled temperature (e.g., 60°C/140°F) for a few hours, weighing the filament before and after to gauge moisture loss. Fan-forced ovens are more effective.
  • Airtight Storage with Desiccant: Using airtight containers with rechargeable desiccant bags to maintain dryness over time.
• Purpose-Built Filament Dryers:
  • Sunlu S2: A budget-friendly option ($40) that dries one spool at a time, features preset times, and a 360° heating element. Downsides include a dark lid, potential tipping, and inaccurate sensors.
  • Eboss Polymus: A more expensive option ($160) that can dry two spools, has automatic humidity control, a spool rotation motor, and can connect directly to a printer via a bowden tube. Potential issues include spools getting stuck and sensor accuracy concerns, though generally better than the S2.
• Tips for Dry Filament:
  • Maintain low relative humidity (<10%) inside the dryer.
  • Use appropriate temperatures to avoid filament damage.
  • Utilize external humidity sensors for accurate monitoring.
  • Properly store filament in airtight containers with desiccants.