In 3D printing technology, fused deposition modeling (FDM) is a widely used printing method, and its core principle is that thermoplastic materials are heated and extruded layer by layer. However, in the process of FDM printing, the hygroscopicity of materials is often ignored, especially common materials such as PLA, ABS, PETG and nylon can easily absorb moisture in the air. If the material is printed without proper drying treatment, it may lead to poor printing quality, poor interlayer bonding and even equipment blockage. Therefore, drying and storing FDM materials is an important link to ensure stable printing effect and product quality.

1. Why do FDM materials need to be dried and stored?

Many thermoplastic materials used in FDM have certain hygroscopicity, especially Nylon and PLA. When the material absorbs the moisture in the air, it will evaporate rapidly in the process of high-temperature extrusion, producing bubbles and steam, which will lead to problems such as holes, rough surface, wire drawing and even strength reduction in printed parts.

In addition, the existence of water molecules will destroy the molecular structure of materials and reduce their mechanical properties, especially when printing materials such as ABS or PC at high temperature, the problem of moisture absorption is more obvious. Therefore, dry storage is very important to maintain the properties of materials.

Second, the common drying methods of FDM materials

1. Use a special drying oven
There are drying boxes or cabinets specially designed for 3D printing in the market, which can maintain a constant dry environment through heating and dehumidification systems. This kind of equipment is usually set between 40℃ and 60℃, which is suitable for the drying requirements of most FDM materials.

2. Food-grade oven is dried at low temperature
For users with limited budget, the food-grade oven can be set at low temperature (usually 50℃~70℃) to dehydrate the materials for several hours. It should be noted that never use an oven that has been used for cooking, so as not to pollute the material with oil.

3. Vacuum dryer
Vacuum drying can remove moisture adsorbed on the surface and inside of materials more effectively, especially suitable for high hygroscopicity materials such as nylon or PVA.

4. Desiccant+sealed container
If the material is not used immediately, it can be stored in a sealed container with a desiccant (such as silica gel or molecular sieve). Although this method can't actively remove moisture, it can effectively prevent further moisture absorption.

Third, drying suggestions for different materials

-PLA: It is recommended to dry at 40℃~50℃ for 4~6 hours.
-ABS: It needs to be dried at about 70℃ for more than 6 hours.
-PETG: It is recommended to dry at 60℃ for 4 hours.
-Nylon: It needs to be dried above 80℃ for more than 8 hours, and should be used as soon as possible.
-PVA: It is extremely hygroscopic and must be stored in a drying oven and used quickly.

IV. Suggestions on Daily Storage

1. Sealed storage: put the materials into sealed bags or containers immediately after each use, and add desiccant;
2. Avoid direct sunlight and high temperature: high temperature will accelerate the aging of materials and affect their properties;
3. Regularly check the material status: if the material is found to be brittle, the color becomes darker or the printing effect becomes worse, it may be a sign of moisture absorption and needs to be dried in time.

tag

With the increasing application of 3D printing, the storage management of FDM materials should also be paid enough attention. Good drying and storage habits can not only prolong the service life of materials, but also improve the accuracy and strength of printed products. For professional users or enterprises, establishing a scientific material management process is a key step to improve printing efficiency and quality. Dry storage is not only a detail, but also a guarantee of quality.