Drying filament is crucial in 3D printing, especially when dealing with high-performance materials. This process is essential because we melt plastic and extrude it at temperatures above the boiling point of water. When plastic contains moisture, the water molecules turn to steam, causing popping noises and visible gaps or bubbles during the printing process. Moisture absorbed by the filament can act as a plasticizer, reducing the glass transition temperature and the strength of the plastic, which is a reversible effect.
When moisture is present in the filament:
The equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of a hygroscopic material is the moisture content at which the material is neither gaining nor losing moisture. This value depends on the material and the relative humidity and temperature of the surrounding air.
With almost all high-performance filaments, such as PEEK, PEI, PPSU, and PPS, it is crucial to dry the filament before processing (extruding). Proper drying ensures optimal print quality and mechanical properties.
The best solution for drying filament is using the Vision Miner Filament Drying Kit. This kit provides the fastest and most consistent results, even for the most challenging materials. Additionally, it offers a convenient storage solution, keeping your filament perfectly ready for use whenever you need it. You can store multiple spools in the vacuum chamber container, maintaining their dryness.
An alternative method is drying the filament inside your 22 IDEX printer. Follow these steps:
Place the Spools:
Activate Heaters:
Reference Drying Times and Temperatures:
MATERIAL | DRYING TEMP (°C) | DURATION (HOURS) |
---|---|---|
PEKK | 90 | 12-24 |
PEEK | 90 | 12-24 |
PEI | 90 | 12-24 |
PPSU | 90 | 12-24 |
PSU | 90 | 12-24 |
PPS | 90 | 12-24 |
NYLON | 90 | 12-24 |
PC | 80 | 8-12 |
PC/ABS | 80 | 8-12 |
PC/ASA | 80 | 8-12 |
ASA | 80 | 8-12 |
ABS | 80 | 8-12 |
TPU | 65 | 8-12 |
PETG | 65 | 8-12 |
PLA | 60 | 6-12 |
Note: These values are general recommendations. Adjustments may be necessary based on specific environmental conditions.
Properly drying your filament is essential for achieving high-quality prints and maintaining the mechanical properties of your materials. Using the Vision Miner Filament Drying Kit or the built-in capabilities of your 22 IDEX will help ensure your filament is ready for optimal printing performance. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact our support team.