Self-Contained Filament Storage and Print

thingiverse

This is a storage and print solution, to store individual filament spools in their own relatively sealed box. From the time the spool is placed in the box until it runs out, there is no need to take it out and expose it to excess humidity. I ran an experiment with a set up and a couple of silica gel packs, and the hygrometer showed a drop to; and maintained at 60% (from about 75%). The spool spins on its own spindle (“hub”) and threads through a hollowed out bolt, minimising contact with the surrounding air. This is NOT airtight but I am happier than taking a spool out of storage and imagine it absorb moisture in a few hours. I never used to care for the talk on humidity and filament, but admittedly, I've noticed that filament flow is smoother with less irregularity when "fresh" out of storage compared to a day or more exposed to humidity of 70% and up. The extra plate and arms are for Printrbot users to set up on the Z-axis rods. These are designed for the Toyogo 3105 storage boxes (~ USD1 each). See http://www.toyogogroup.com (available only in Singapore and Malaysia I believe). You may be able to find a suitable sized box locally to fit your spool. My reels are 18cm diameter and 9.5cm high. BOM (per Printrbot set up): 16 x 12mm M3 screws Print: Top Plate, Base, 2x Arm1-3, 2x Arm2-4 BOM (per filament spool): 2 x 8mm M3 screws Toyogo 3105 storage box (or what fits yours) 608 bearing Thick double-sided tape (to tape down the hub) Silica gel or packs Hygrometer (optional) ** @Printrbot users, I recommend drilling closer to the bottom of the box for the hollowed bolt. In the picture I drilled this first one closer to the top, which created slight friction for the filament). Print: Hub, Spool_57mm (Sketchup source file enclosed to mod for your spool hole's diameter. V2 recommended), Nut & Bolt (if using the Curved Edge adaptor, print the LONG nut and bolt set), Filament DRS Add-on (clips onto front left leg)