I am new to 3d printing and got my X1C with AMS last week. I have been wondering if not printing frequently, should I take filament spools out and store them?
The X1C included a Support for PLA spool in a resealable bag. The other 2 included PLA spools were not in resealable bags. This made me wonder if I am printing objects that do not require support filament, should I take that spool out of the AMS and keep it in the original bag?
Yes, you can. Or purchase a resealable cereal container and keep it (and others if you buy a few) in it. You can also purchase some dessicant and a larger plastic tote and store them in there.
The AMS isn’t 100% sealed but PLA and PETG should be ok stored within it. Look around here you’ll find some threads on drying and storing.
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Don’t store this spool in the AMS, store it until you need it.
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You can keep filaments in the AMS long term, as long as you properly handle it.
I typically leave filament in my AMS until I need to switch it out for something else. I usually keep different types of filament in there so I can quickly pick a material I need. Usually PLA for prototyping, ABS or ASA for outdoor prints, and sometimes PC for when I’m looking for that extra strength.
My setup and prep work makes sure that I don’t run into moisture issues while having different types of spools and filament types in the AMS. I make sure ALL of my filament, including PLA, is dried and stored in dry boxes with desiccant. This not only reduces printing issues, but it also makes sure I don’t introduce moisture to any hygroscopic filaments that share the AMS. I also use desiccant holders for the AMS to keep the chamber dry and monitor it via a hygrometer that’s viewable from the front of the AMS.
As @johnfcooley noted, the AMS isn’t 100% sealed, but my setup has been working out well for me and so it hasn’t been a concern.
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I converted my 3 AMS systems into silica dry boxes with digital hygrometers. You are able to print these mods for free and you order the reusable silica gel beads and hygrometers on amazon for really cheap.
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