In the world of 3D printing, maintaining optimal filament conditions is key to achieving high-quality prints. We're thrilled to feature this detailed review of the SUNLU AMS Heater, an innovative upgrade designed specifically for Bambu Lab printers with AMS units like the X1 and P1 series. This review, originally published on Creative Bloq, highlights how our AMS Heater addresses common challenges like damp filament, enabling drying while printing for seamless multi-color projects.
Below is the reprint of the article, written by Beth Nicholls, Ecommerce Writer at Creative Bloq. For the original source, visit [Creative Bloq].
If you own a Bambu Lab 3D printer, this SUNLU AMS upgrade is a must-buy
SUNLU AMS Heater review
In the 3D printing community, a ongoing debate centers on the need to dry filament spools before printing. While some dismiss moisture in filament as a myth, my hands-on testing with top-tier 3D printers confirms it's a genuine problem that can compromise print quality.
Fortunately, effective remedies exist for filament humidity, including SUNLU's new AMS Heater—an upgrade tailored for Bambu Lab printers with AMS systems, such as the X1 and P1 models. Currently available for pre-order, shipments are slated to begin in October and November.
First impressions
- Nice design
- Very easy to install
- Simple touchscreen controls
Key Features of the SUNLU AMS Heater
The SUNLU AMS Heater boasts a double blower system that evenly distributes hot air across all four filament spools in the AMS chamber. It reaches a maximum temperature of 70°C and can run for up to 99 hours of drying time. The intuitive touchscreen interface includes material-specific temperature presets and real-time monitoring, making it user-friendly for both beginners and experienced 3D printing enthusiasts. Additional highlights include automatic humidity control – it shuts off below 20% humidity to save power and reactivates if levels exceed 50% – plus an adjustable air vent for convenient filament storage.
Installation is straightforward, requiring just four screws and the included Allen key, ensuring a secure seal with your Bambu Lab AMS to block out external moisture.
Pros and Cons: What Stands Out
This Bambu Lab-compatible filament dryer shines in several areas:
Easy Installation and Use: A simple setup process and quiet operation (just a low buzz) make it hassle-free.
Affordable Pricing: Available at an early bird price of $109.99 / £99.99, it's a cost-effective alternative to pricier options like Bambu Lab's AMS 2 Pro.
Multi-Spool Drying: Unlike most standalone dryers that handle only one or two spools, this upgrade dries all four at once, enhancing efficiency for multicolour 3D printing.
On the downside, it lacks individual control for each spool, meaning all filaments dry together. The prototype's design had minor aesthetic issues, like a sticky wrap, but the final version promises improved build quality.
Performance
- Max temps up to 70C
- Intuitive interface
- Affordable upgrade for Bambu owners
Performance and Verdict
Users report exceptional drying performance, with the heater effectively reducing humidity and maintaining optimal conditions for filament. It's particularly praised for allowing simultaneous printing and drying – a feature that elevates the Bambu Lab experience without breaking the bank.
Overall, the SUNLU AMS Heater is hailed as an excellent, budget-friendly upgrade for Bambu Lab owners looking to enhance their 3D printing setup. As one reviewer put it, "this price is a steal" compared to competitors.
This summary is based on the original review by Beth Nicholls, Ecommerce Writer for Creative Bloq. For the full article, visit Creative Bloq's review.
SUNLU AMS Heater quick review
There's also an air vent at the top of the heater, which can be opened or closed. I thought this was a great touch, allowing users to store filament inside the chamber even while drying is not active. The seal around the edge of the lid fits snugly with the original Bambu Lab AMS chamber for a secure seal, keeping out any outside moisture.
I think the SUNLU AMS Heater upgrade is an excellent option for Bambu customers who want to upgrade their existing AMS unit for a lower cost, but what's the damage? Right now, it retails for an early bird price of $109.99 / £99.99, though it will usually cost around $119.99 / £109.99 when it officially rolls out.
I think this price is a steal if I'm honest, considering that most standalone 3D filament dryers (excluding Creality's SpacePi X4) can only dry one or two spools of filament at a time for a similar price. This doesn't necessarily align with Bambu Lab's AMS, which is primarily needed for multicolour 3D printing. Being able to print and dry at the same time is a luxury that not all 3D printers offer, but this SUNLU upgrade makes it a possibility for a lot less than opting for Bambu Lab's AMS 2 Pro unit.
This review underscores the value of the SUNLU AMS Heater as an affordable, efficient solution for enhancing your 3D printing setup. If you're dealing with filament moisture issues or looking to optimize your Bambu Lab printer, check out the [SUNLU AMS Heater] today.
Reprinted with permission from Creative Bloq. Original article by Beth Nicholls.