Desiccant Box

thingiverse

# Desiccant Box This desiccant box is designed for use with the Dry Box Filament Dispenser, but it can also be used in other applications. The box consists of two printed components: * A container measuring 170x170x32 mm, featuring four M6 threads with a 1.0 mm pitch. * A lid measuring 166x166x2 mm, recessed into the container. Four M6x20 screws with a 1.0 mm pitch are required to secure the lid in place. Nylon screws were used to ensure microwave compatibility, allowing for safe recycling of Silica Gel Beads within the box. However, alternative screw materials may be employed if necessary. The desiccant box features vents on both its top and bottom faces. When placed with the lid facing downwards, the four screw heads serve as feet, elevating the box and preventing it from obstructing airflow through the bottom vents. A 40 mm diameter central pocket is located on the top of the box, providing an optional mounting point for a faceless Temperature and Humidity wireless sensor, such as the Xiaomi Smart Temperature and Humidity WiFi sensor. ## Printing Configuration * Material: Transparent PETG (1.75mm) from eSUN. * Slicer: CuraEngine. Given the numerous holes in the design, it is recommended to select a printing configuration that ensures good adhesion to the printing surface. A suitable printing speed for the first layer was achieved at approximately 40 mm/s. To minimize printing time, the following settings were employed: * Layer Height: 0.2 mm * Infill Density: 20% **Important Note:** When printing the lid, ensure that it is oriented correctly by rotating it 180 degrees around the Y-Axis, with its flat surface facing the printing bed. ## Desiccant Quantity and Supply This desiccant box can hold approximately 350 grams of Silica Gel Beads measuring 2-4 mm in diameter. The desiccant used was sourced from Dry & Dry on Amazon at a cost of around $35. This 1-gallon (7.5 LBS = 3.4 kg) volume of desiccant can be used with approximately 10 desiccant boxes using this design. The Silica Gel Beads indicate moisture absorption by changing color from blue to pink when 50-60% absorbed. According to the vendor, the Silica Gel Beads can be reactivated by placing them in an oven at 200-250F for 0.5-2 hours or in a microwave for about 10 minutes on defrost. Caution is advised not to exceed 250F in the oven. The recommended time may vary depending on the beads' condition, and users are encouraged to monitor their color periodically. In comparison, six commercial desiccant boxes were previously used with one filament dispenser. Each box measured 25x55x55 mm and contained approximately 45 grams of Silica Gel Beads. While this configuration was economical, a single larger box offers more convenience for personal use. Users are advised to conduct their own economic analysis. ---