¶ Necessity of Filament Drying
Filaments exposed to humid environments absorb moisture. During printing, when the filament is heated to high temperatures inside the nozzle, this moisture rapidly vaporizes, causing a sharp increase in internal pressure. This pressure can make the filament overly fluid and generate voids, leading to print defects such as stringing, oozing, and rough surface finishes. To ensure high-quality prints, it is recommended to dry filaments before use.
Printing with moist filament causes surface voids on the model
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Printing with moist filament causes stringing during travel moves
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¶ Recommended Drying Equipment
Use a professional forced-air filament drying cabinet. Never use a microwave oven or kitchen oven.
¶ Drying Time and Temperature
| Filament Type | Drying Recommended? | Drying Temperature | Drying Duration | Enclosed Printing Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA Series | Recommended | 55 ± 5 °C | 6 hours | No |
| PETG Series | Recommended | 60 ± 5 °C | 8–10 hours | No |
| TPU | Mandatory | 70 ± 5 °C | 6–10 hours | No |
| ASA | Recommended | 70 ± 5 °C | 4–8 hours | Yes |
| ABS | Recommended | 70 ± 5 °C | 4–6 hours | Yes |
| PC | Mandatory | 80 ± 5 °C | 6–12 hours | Yes |
Some filaments have specific requirements for the printer’s ambient temperature, such as ABS. For these materials, enclosed printing or adding an insulation cover to the printer is recommended
¶ Post-Drying Handling
Immediately after drying, place the filament in a sealed bag with fresh desiccant. Store the sealed filament in a dry location away from direct sunlight.
¶ Drying Frequency
- High-hygroscopic filaments: dry once per week
- Standard filaments: dry every 1–2 months or when signs of moisture appear
¶ Filament Storage
¶ Storage Environment Conditions
Store in a cool, dry, and dark place. Ideal conditions: 15–25 °C with relative humidity < 30% RH. Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources, or air-conditioning vents.
¶ Recommended Storage Methods
¶ Storage method 1 Use original packaging bag for sealed storage
Place the filament in its original packaging bag, add desiccant, and seal the opening with clips.
¶ Storage method 2 Vacuum sealing with Elegoo vacuum pump
- Place the filament in a vacuum bag
- Seal the bag opening with clips
- Use the vacuum pump to remove air from the bag
- Press the vacuum pump air hole flat with your finger
- Store the filament in a dry location away from direct sunlight
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