Cabinets extend life of 3-D printer filaments

Nov. 4, 2020
Essentium Inc.'s DryBox line of storage cabinets protect filament from damaging humidity.

DryBox One variable that can cause defects in 3-D printed parts is filament that has too much moisture content. DryBox is a storage cabinet that relies on a reusable desiccant to maintain low relative humidity. It is available in three models that can accommodate multiple spool weights, and the models have capacities from 24 to 72 750-gram spools. One model, with the SB designation for SmartBake, is insulated and has a heating feature to speed drying. DryBox was created by Essentium in partnership with dry storage manufacturer ECD. All models have optional reel racks, light tower alarms and combination door locks available.

What’s new? The DryBox line.

Benefits Longer filament shelf life. Manufacturers can exchange spools of filament within DryBox as many as 10 to 12 times per hour, which is more than double the access competitive units offer. DryBox can restore set humidity values in less than five minutes. Its status is obvious at a glance, as the cabinet’s interior light is visible through its clear front door panels, with green for “compliant,” yellow for “working” and red for “alert.” DryBox cabinets are network-capable and Industry 4.0-ready, so performance can be tracked 24/7 from internet-enabled devices.

Essentium Inc., Pflugerville, Texas, [email protected], www.essentium.com


Vital statistics


DB90DB90-SBDB270
Footprint (feet)3.75 by 1.7 by 2.5   3.75 by 1.7 by 2.5        5.8 by 3.75 by 2.5         
Door opening (feet)        1.5 by 1.45        1.5 by 1.45        1.5 by 4.8        
Storage capacity        10 cubic feet        10 cubic feet        30 cubic feet        
Floor shelves        112
Reel racks        226