Snapmakers, & Such

Starting a new thread to document my spool holder modifications to increase drying and storage performance.

My first modification was to attempt to seal the spool holder to prevent ambient moisture from seeping in through holes, gaps or pores in the walls. I first tried using the aerosol version of flex seal on the inside of the spool holder. This was a total mess. The product was very difficult to apply evenly and remained very tacky intentionally due to interactions between the plastic and the aerosols in the can. I also used caulk to seal the outside gap between the drier adapter and main body. Unfortunately I didn't see appreciable increases in performance.

I then found a can of clear brush on flex seal and that went on much better. I applied an additional coat on the inside of the spool holder and also applied a coat to the exterior. The product is a thick rubberized coating that is glossy and self-leveling and doesn't look half bad except for some runs and high spots. Note that I still am using opaque window pieces until I have a final modification that works.

After the application of additional sealant and then putting dessicant in the holder overnight, I was able to get down to 10% humidity! I am currently printing with one spool in the holder and hanging out at 10%. We will see how long it can go.

Phase 2 is increasing thermal performance. I have partially installed that metallic bubble wrap insulation material on most of the inside of the spool holder. It's not finished so I have not taken any data. Hoping this works. Other ideas are to try a thin foam layer under or in place of the metallic bubble wrap stuff, or even wrap the outside in something.

I do think that the snapdryer is ultimately underpowered or outputs heat at inappropriate temperatures for their respective settings for such a large volume. That can be improved by using a higher setting than recommended for your filament type, but heat loss is clearly an issue too.