Airtight Filament Storage Container and Spool Holder (Drybox)

prusaprinters

<p>Here's a very simple filament storage and feeder solution. Others have used this same one, but this shows that you can complete this with none or very simple printed parts. The container is $9, so it's really economical for single spool containment.</p> <p>This container can hold spools that are 100mm wide or less. I've used 1kg Hatchbox, esun, solutech, and atomic filament and they all work with this.</p> <h3>Parts</h3> <h3>Required</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://amzn.to/2Qr1lQd">Container</a> on Amazon (21 cup version)</li> <li>Desiccant (to keep things dry!) - a <a href="https://amzn.to/2IPvqYM">half gallon</a> is enough for at least 8 containers. It keeps them at &lt;20% humidity or below and can be rejuvenated. Or tape a free packet you have to the inside for $0.</li> </ul> <h3>Optional Extras</h3> <ul> <li>Spool holder<ul> <li>Print attached STL files (uses 4x12mm M3 Screws and bolts or super glue)</li> <li>Or use your favorite spool holder that is 100mm wide or less. (like the <a href="https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2047554">tush</a>)</li> </ul> </li> <li>Filament Port<ul> <li><a href="https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1750875">Print this one pictured above</a></li> <li>or buy these PC4-M6 or PC4-M10 w/ ptfe tubes: <a href="https://amzn.to/30V4AEy">https://amzn.to/30V4AEy</a></li> </ul> </li> <li>Humidity detection<ul> <li><a href="https://amzn.to/2YOQ1jU">Humidity sensor</a> or </li> <li><a href="https://amzn.to/30IAKTr">Paper Indicators</a></li> </ul> </li> </ul> <p> </p> <h3>Assembly</h3> <h3>Spool holder</h3> <p>I found that these will spin pretty freely without a spool holder, too. Just let it slide on the bottom. The only reason to print a spool holder is so you can add some desiccant to the bottom.</p> <p>A lot of spool holders will work here. So, print your favorite spool holder. I've made one that's in the files section that's very minimal. Either use M3 screws or epoxy/super glue to secure the rod holders. I initially tested this with 608 bearings, but found that you don't even need them because there is very little resistance. Add some grease to rod holders if you think it needs it. I do have an STL that can be used with 608 bearings, and can upload if you think that'll help, let me know.</p> <p>Print the included spool holder with 0% infill and 3 perimeters.</p> <h3>Filament Port</h3> <p>You can buy one or print one.</p> <ul> <li>Use a PC4-M6 or PC4-M10 fitting for a professional look. Drill a hole slightly smaller and you can screw this into the container without any other fittings.</li> <li>Or you can print it. Pictured above is <a href="https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1750875">this one</a>, I had to scale it down to 91% for it to grab the ptfe tube just right, will vary with your ptfe tube.</li> </ul> <h3>Humidity Sensor</h3> <p>I've attached a template for cutting a hole for the humidity sensor that's pretty popular out there. Alternatively, I like the <a href="https://amzn.to/30IAKTr">paper indicators</a> because they're cheap and easy.</p> <h3>Sealing</h3> <p>Use glue to seal any holes you made for the spool holder, filament port or sensors. I used this <a href="https://amzn.to/2YJprJ0">rope caulk</a> because I had extra around the house for other projects. It's really easy to work with, like clay/silly putty.</p> <p>You can print a <a href="https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2811279">PTFE Endcap</a> to fully seal the ptfe tube when not in use.</p>