Filament Storage Dispenser

thingiverse

I've been experimenting with PETG, PC, and eventually Nylon to see how they compare in terms of quality. Consistent and low moisture content make all the difference in some prints. I was looking at dry storage dispensers that range from $30 to $60. I found a few designs on Thingiverse that use bulk dry good storage containers. This specific 132-cup container from Amazon costs only $11. Adding some homegrown printed parts, desiccant ($3), and a humidity meter ($3) gets you a nice solution for under $20. The initial idea came from the Aibecy eSUN eBOX 3D Printing Filament Box on Amazon, which seems like a nicely made item but is too pricey at $75. I also saw the KATAMCO 3D Printer Filament Box Deluxe - Dispenser and Storage Container on Amazon, which is cheaper but uses an off-the-shelf container and hydrometer. I figured I could find the same container and make my own after seeing that design. While searching for air-tight cereal containers, I found a Thingiverse item that seemed like an excellent solution. The top-mounted desiccant drier basket was inspired by that design. My own design is based on the ME.FAN EXTRA LARGE Airtight Food Storage Containers 6.3L with Easy Pouring Lid. I liked the idea of the sealable lid and envisioned creating a bowden tube adapter to attach directly to the filament feed. The container is more than large enough, and it's very well sealed. For assembly, you'll need some M3 or #4 wood/plastic screws. I keep a box on hand for simple parts assembly. The hydrometers are available on Amazon, ranging from $2 to $5 each depending on the quantity. I chose Blue Silica Desiccant and designed my basket lid with a triangular window so you can see inside when the desiccant changes color. Here's the link to the product I used. Good luck! EDIT 3/10: A Reddit poster pointed out that one of the screw holes on the basket cover didn't align with the screw hole on the basket. I corrected the model and uploaded a new STL and .STEP file. Sorry.