What is a Filament Dryer?
Filament dryers have been around for several years now, but many 3D printing groups and communities online will have you believe that wet filament is nothing more than a myth, quick to dismiss any issues occurring from it, and suggest these problems can be solved with simple software and printer tweaks. Let me save you the headache of troubleshooting and skip to the part where you come to terms with needing a way to dry out your filament (some people use an oven – but I wouldn’t recommend this).
These machines usually take the form of a chamber or boxed container to house your material spools, and remove moisture through heat while you print.
Which One Should I Buy?
When looking to buy a filament dryer to accompany your 3D printer, you’ll most likely come across a ton of options from a company called SUNLU. This manufacturer is one of the most trusted on the market and specialises in 3D printing accessories and materials including plastic filament, resin, ultrasonic cleaners, and it makes some of the best 3D pens too.
SUNLU has several filament dryers, from the more compact and circular S2 models (costing as little as $44.99), to the rectangular S4 FilaDryer – and now the newest SUNLU FilaDryer E2 machine is available to preorder at a price of $349.99 / £282.42, and offers professional-grade results, accommodating up to two 1kg spools of material.
SUNLU FilaDryer E2: A Game-Changer?
The E2 filament dryer from SUNLU is said to offer next-generation drying temperatures between 70°C and 110°C (the ACE Pro from Anycubic offers around 40°C in comparison) and has been designed specifically for advanced engineering hygroscopic materials such as Nylon and PC. If these filaments aren’t dried correctly, the trapped moisture can vaporise during your printing process and cause numerous issues like uneven surfaces on your prints.
Another standout feature of the SUNLU FilaDryer E2 is its annealing mode, which I believe is used to cement and stabilise your prints post-processing using heat for that added layer of strength. According to SUNLU, annealing your prints can improve dimensional accuracy, and enhance any mechanical properties. This isn’t something I’m too familiar with, but it sounds like a great added bonus for those seeking durable and rock-solid prints.
Other Options to Consider
For some alternative brands, you should also consider filament dryers from the likes of Creality (the Space Pi filament dryer is compact and affordable) as well as options from eSUN via Amazon for under $50, and there’s also the Polymaker PolyDryer too. Take a look at the deals below for some top filament dryers in your region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wet filament can cause a range of issues with your 3D printing, from stringing to poor-quality surfaces, fragile models, rough edges, and even bubbles in your prints. However, with a filament dryer, you can ensure that your material is dry and ready for use, resulting in better print quality and fewer headaches. Whether you’re a seasoned 3D printing enthusiast or just starting out, a filament dryer is an investment worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a filament dryer?
A: A filament dryer is a machine that removes moisture from 3D printing filament, ensuring it is dry and ready for use.
Q: Why do I need a filament dryer?
A: Wet filament can cause a range of issues with your 3D printing, including stringing, poor-quality surfaces, fragile models, rough edges, and even bubbles in your prints.
Q: Which filament dryer is best for me?
A: The best filament dryer for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Consider your 3D printing experience, the type of filament you use, and your desired level of print quality when choosing a filament dryer.
Q: Can I use an oven to dry my filament?
A: No, it’s not recommended to use an oven to dry your filament. This can cause uneven drying, which can lead to poor print quality. Instead, consider a dedicated filament dryer designed specifically for this purpose.
