Keep It Fresh: Essential Tips for 3D Printer Filament Storage
3D printing filament is a consumable material that needs to be stored properly. The quality of the filament you use will have a direct impact on the quality of your 3D prints, so it's important to take care of your filament and store it properly.
To keep your filament from degrading, follow these tips for proper storage:
- Store in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators or heaters.
- Do not leave filament in its original packaging for long periods of time (this allows moisture to build up).
There are many ways to store your filament, and the best storage method depends on the following factors:
What kind of filament you're using. For example, if you're using PLA or ABS, you need to store it in a cool dry place to prevent it from warping. If you're using PETG or TPU, you can store them at room temperature or in a cold environment because they're more flexible than other plastics.
How long you plan to keep the filament. If you have plans to use the filament within the next few months, then there's no need for long-term storage solutions. However, if you plan to hold onto it for years before use, then it's important that your filament doesn't get damaged by time or temperature changes.
How much space is available for storing your filament? You need enough space for all your filaments as well as extra space for new ones coming down the pipeline!
The best way to store your filament is in a cool and dry place. The worst thing is heat and humidity. Some people like to keep their filament in the refrigerator. This can be a good idea, but it's not necessary.
If you do want to refrigerate your filament, make sure that you allow it to come back up to room temperature before using it. This will extend the life of your filament by slowing down the degradation process.
In general, 3D printer filament should last at least two years if properly stored. If you have an unused roll of 3D printer filament that is more than two years old, then it's probably time to say goodbye and toss it out
As you may know, 3D printing filament is made from raw materials that are used to create the finished product. Because of this, it is essential to store filament in a way that minimizes its exposure to moisture and light.
In this article, we’ll provide you with some tips for 3D printer filament storage so that you can keep your filament fresh and ready for use at any time.
Keep It Away From Light
The first thing you should do when storing your filament is to make sure it’s not exposed to too much light or heat. Excessive heat can cause warping and melting while too much light can cause the color of the material to fade over time.
To prevent these issues, keep your filaments in an airtight container that’s away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat (such as lamps). You should also avoid storing your material in places that get very hot or cold — try finding a spot that’s somewhere in between!
Proper filament storage is critical for the longevity of your 3D printer. Without proper storage, you run the risk of having your filament degrade and become unusable.
We've put together a list of tips on how to store 3D printer filament properly so that you can maximize its lifespan.
The first step is to keep it out of sunlight. Ultraviolet (UV) light will degrade the plastic over time, which can result in discoloration and even cracking or breaking the filament. If you have a UV-proof container, this is great! But even if not, there are other ways to protect your filament from UV light:
Keep your filament in a dark area like a closet or cabinet when not in use
Put your filament in an opaque container like a Ziploc bag or Tupperware container