[3D Printing News] 3D Printing Tips: How to Preserve PVA Cables

[3D Printing News] 3D Printing Tips: How to Preserve PVA Cables

PVA support material is used in 3D printing of objects with complex geometry, holes, or protrusions.
PVA supports the shape of the model during 3D printing and then dissolves in water. However, due to its chemical properties, it is very sensitive to humidity, and its quality will decrease over time during storage.
Let's take a look at some ways you can preserve and maintain PVA materials to achieve the best results.
Ultimaker PVA cable formulations are more sensitive to humidity than other PVA cables, but there are still ways to care for them correctly.

How to save PVA spools

Preserving PVA under optimal conditions is key to high-quality 3D printing.
If not stored properly, PVA will absorb moisture from its surroundings (you'll notice it becomes soft, pliable, or even sticky) or become too dry (making it brittle).
This can all lead to extrusion problems and print quality issues.

If the problem is related to moisture, you might see air bubbles in the PVA filament caused by moisture, which will produce a popping sound when printing. Print quality will be reduced.
A poor PVA support layer may cause printing failures.
This can also cause clogging of your BB print nozzles ( read the message on how to fix clogged print nozzles ).

PVA is printed correctly. If the PVA is damaged, discoloration and poorly printed layers may occur.

One of the best ways to avoid any problems is to store PVA in a sealed container when not in use. If you have Ultimaker PVA, we recommend reusing the resealable bag and desiccant from the original packaging, which should keep it in good condition when you intend to use it.
Some third-party manufacturers offer alternative solutions, such as specialized cable storage boxes, or you can use other types of airtight containers.

The optimal temperature for storing PVA is between 0°C and 30°C, and the recommended relative humidity for the storage area is below 50%. Direct sunlight should also be avoided.

What if your PVA loses its good quality?

If your PVA does absorb moisture, it can still be dried again.

Dry the PVA filament on the Ultimaker 3 printing platform.

The simplest way to dry filament is to use the heated platform of the Ultimaker 3D printer. Place the spool inside a carton (such as an Ultimaker filament box) and place it on the platform, heat it to 55°C, and wait several hours while the filament dries.

To do this using the Ultimaker 3 menu, go to System > Print Platform and manually change the print platform temperature.


Original source: https://ultimaker.com/en/blog/52493-3d-printing-tips-how-to-store-pva-material