How to Maintain, Store, and Recycle 3D Printing Materials

Maintaining your 3D printing materials is just as important as maintaining your 3D printer. Materials can become a big waste of money if stored improperly or misused, and ordering them can be a real hassle. When you run out, it’s not like just ordering another ream of printer paper! Not to mention, using expired or degraded materials can cause damage to your 3D printer. But, with proper knowledge and preparation, you can get the most out of your 3D printing materials while reducing waste.

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Get The Most Out Of Your 3D Printing Materials

First things first, don’t throw away the manual when you order 3D printing materials! The manufacturer may have specific directions on how the materials must be maintained and stored. For example, some 3D printing materials may need to be stored in a canister facing a particular direction, and some may need to be kept in the mylar bags they arrived in. Make sure you read the directions and only order as much 3D printing material as you need for a specific project. Having too many excess 3D printing materials on hand will lead to some expiring before you even get the chance to use them. 

Choose the Right Storage

3D printing materials are not your average everyday plastic. These specialized materials can degrade quickly if stored improperly. Though different materials may have different instructions for storage, here’s a general rule of thumb to properly store 3D printing materials. 

Make sure you store your materials…

  • In a cool, dry environment
  • With a way to control the ambient temperature
  • With low or no UV exposure
  • Sometimes with desiccants to reduce moisture absorption

Since 3D printing materials can expire, it is necessary to use a “first in, first out” rule for storage. The first materials received are the first materials used. If you follow these simple parameters, you will prevent materials waste from damage and expiration. 

Click to learn more about storage solutions and shutting down your 3D printer.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

There are three main types of 3D printing materials: thermoplastics, thermoset plastics, and elastomers. Thermoplastics, used in FDM, are not cured and thus can be melted down and recycled into new 3D printed parts. Thermoset plastics, such as polyurethane and silicone, are molded and then cured, so unfortunately, most of these are not recyclable. Also not easily recyclable are elastomers, like natural or synthetic rubber, but these are not widely used. Waste should always be considered at the beginning of your project, not just at the end. Creating a design to reduce waste from the start is the best way not to have to recycle anything at all!

Do you know which 3D materials you should use with your 3D printer? Call us today, and we can answer all your questions.