The shelf life of 3D printer filament depends on the type of material and how it is stored. Generally, most filaments can last for a year or more if kept in a cool, dry, and dark place. However, some filaments are more sensitive to moisture, temperature, and sunlight than others, and may degrade faster or lose their quality over time. In this article, we will explore the factors that affect the longevity of 3D printer filament, how to tell if your filament is still good, and how to store your filament properly to extend its life span.
There are many types of 3D printer filament available on the market, each with its own properties, advantages, and disadvantages. Some of the most common ones are:
PLA (Polylactic Acid): PLA is one of the most popular and widely used filaments for 3D printing. It is biodegradable, easy to print with, and comes in a variety of colors and finishes. PLA is also relatively cheap and has good dimensional accuracy. However, PLA is not very durable or heat-resistant, and can become brittle or lose its color over time. PLA is also prone to absorbing moisture from the air, which can cause it to swell, bubble, or crack during printing. PLA filament should be stored in a sealed bag with a desiccant packet, and used within 6 to 12 months of opening.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): ABS is another common filament for 3D printing. It is strong, flexible, and resistant to heat and impact. ABS is also suitable for post-processing, such as sanding, drilling, or painting. However, ABS is more difficult to print with than PLA, as it requires a heated bed, a well-ventilated area, and a high extrusion temperature. ABS is also sensitive to UV light, which can cause it to fade or yellow over time. ABS filament should be stored in a dark and dry place, and used within 12 to 18 months of opening.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol): PETG is a newer filament that combines the best of both PLA and ABS. It is strong, flexible, and durable, as well as easy to print with and resistant to heat and UV light. PETG is also recyclable and has a glossy finish. However, PETG is more expensive than PLA or ABS, and can be sticky or stringy during printing. PETG is also hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which can affect its print quality and performance. PETG filament should be stored in a sealed bag with a desiccant packet, and used within 12 months of opening.
Nylon: Nylon is a synthetic polymer that is known for its strength, flexibility, and abrasion resistance. Nylon is also resistant to chemicals, oils, and solvents, making it ideal for industrial or mechanical applications. However, nylon is very hygroscopic, and can absorb up to 10% of its weight in water. This can cause it to warp, bubble, or degrade during printing. Nylon filament should be stored in a vacuum-sealed bag with a desiccant packet, and dried before use. Nylon filament can last for several years if stored properly.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): TPU is a flexible and elastic filament that can bend, stretch, and twist without breaking. TPU is also resistant to abrasion, impact, and weathering, making it suitable for wearable or outdoor products. However, TPU is very soft and flexible, which can make it difficult to feed into the extruder or adhere to the bed. TPU is also sensitive to heat and sunlight, which can cause it to degrade or lose its elasticity over time. TPU filament should be stored in a cool and dark place, and used within 6 to 12 months of opening.
These are just some of the most common types of 3D printer filament, but there are many more, such as wood, metal, carbon fiber, or glow-in-the-dark. Each type of filament has its own shelf life and storage requirements, so it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations before using or storing your filament.
How to Tell If Your 3D Printer Filament Is Still Good
The best way to tell if your 3D printer filament is still good is to print a test object with it and check the results. Some signs that your filament may be bad or expired are:
The filament is brittle or snaps easily. This means that the filament has lost its flexibility and strength, and may break during printing or cause clogs or jams in the extruder.
The filament is discolored or faded. This means that the filament has been exposed to sunlight or heat, and may have lost its original color or quality.
The filament is swollen or bubbly. This means that the filament has absorbed moisture from the air, and may cause extrusion problems or poor surface quality.
The filament is inconsistent or uneven. This means that the filament has been stored improperly or has degraded over time, and may cause variations in diameter, flow, or temperature.
The filament smells bad or produces smoke. This means that the filament has been contaminated or burned, and may release harmful fumes or damage your printer.
If you notice any of these signs, you should discard your filament and replace it with a new one. Using bad or expired filament can ruin your prints, waste your time and money, and damage your printer.
The best way to store your 3D printer filament properly is to follow these steps:
Keep your filament in its original packaging until you are ready to use it. Most filaments come in sealed bags or boxes with desiccant packets that keep them dry and fresh.
Store your filament in a cool, dry, and dark place. Avoid exposing your filament to direct sunlight, heat, or humidity, as these can degrade your filament or affect its properties.
Use a filament container or holder that protects your filament from dust, dirt, or moisture. You can buy a filament container or holder online, or make your own with a plastic bin, a spool holder, and some silica gel packets.
Label your filament with the date of purchase and the type of material. This will help you keep track of your filament inventory and avoid using expired or incompatible filaments.
Use your filament within the recommended time frame. Depending on the type of filament and how it is stored, your filament may last for a few months to a few years. However, it is better to use your filament sooner rather than later, as the quality and performance may deteriorate over time.
By following these steps, you can store your 3D printer filament properly and extend its shelf life. This will help you save money, reduce waste, and improve your print quality and reliability.
Conclusion
3D printer filament is an essential component of 3D printing, but it is not immortal. The shelf life of 3D printer filament depends on the type of material and how it is stored. Generally, most filaments can last for a year or more if kept in a cool, dry, and dark place. However, some filaments are more sensitive to moisture, temperature, and sunlight than others, and may degrade faster or lose their quality over time. To tell if your filament is still good, you can print a test object with it and check the results. To store your filament properly, you can keep it in its original packaging, use a filament container or holder, label it with the date and type, and use it within the recommended time frame. By doing so, you can ensure that your filament is always in good condition and ready for your next 3D printing project.
