Filament desiccant cup

thingiverse

This project comprises four distinct components that enable the creation of cups capable of storing desiccant (silica or calcium chloride) within a filament roll, allowing for compact storage in zip bags. The holes situated atop and along the sides of the cup are designed to facilitate air circulation and expedite desiccation rates. Initially, the holes were smaller, higher, and located at the top. The spacer and base components are intended to create a gap, enabling wet desiccant to settle within this space. Notably, this is not necessary for products like silica gel. To further ensure protection, I employ a small bag to cover the cup itself due to concerns over layer fusion and the potential for PLA exposure to calcium chloride. Printing proceeds as normal except for the base component, which requires printing without top or bottom layers and necessitates a grid or zigzag infill pattern. In my experience, a zigzag pattern with 1mm spacing achieves optimal results. Elephant foot is particularly crucial in this context. To mitigate its effects, I printed my first layer at 60% flow to facilitate the formation of a mesh without obstructions. Assembly involves inserting the cup into the holder, completing the process.