The best way to get great prints from a 3D printer starts with using the right filaments, and you need to store them safely. Tossing a spool after the first print is wasteful, and storing it in a cabinet isn’t a good solution. Read on to learn the best way to store 3D printing filament.
Every item in your work environment needs a home, especially your 3D printer filaments. Understand the storage needs of your filaments before simply tossing them in a plastic bin and storing them in a dark closet. For instance, some 3D printing materials require a cool, dry place to avoid drying out or warping.
PLA is easy to use, inexpensive, and makes beautiful prints. One benefit of using this filament is that its storage requirements include an airtight container with silica gel packets or beads. Store this container in a dark, dry place. ABS has the same storage requirements. If you cannot place these filaments in containers, organize them in an air-conditioned room.
Many nylon variants are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the air. Avoid storing filaments carelessly; use airtight storage boxes with built-in hygrometers to monitor relative humidity. Water-resistant nylon variants have less stringent storage requirements.
Copolyester, polycarbonate, and other specialty materials don’t react well to heat and frigid air. Store specialized filaments in translucent storage containers with sealable lids to maximize their lifespan.
Investing in quality storage solutions for your filaments is essential. Your filament and 3D printer will produce high-quality prints when you take care of the supplies and equipment. Investing in these solutions is worthwhile. Look for the following features while browsing storage containers:
Observe your inventory after storing the filament. Regularly checking and maintaining filament conditions help the filaments last a long time, but the storage containers and rooms you place them in may diminish over time. Record the previous lid replacement so you know when to check again. Additionally, replace or recharge silica gel packets if they become saturated and lose their effectiveness. Check each spool for signs of brittleness, discoloration, or other indications of degradation.
Understanding the needs of printing materials is critical to ensuring the quality of your 3D printing filaments. By investing in storage solutions for 3D print filaments and regularly checking on their conditions, you can guarantee the success of your projects. If you’re looking for high-quality materials like copolyester filament, check out Filamatrix’s range of exceptional products. We offer high-quality filaments and a blog dedicated to helping professionals learn how to use filaments for successful 3D printing projects.
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