PLA, or Polylactic Acid, is a frequently employed thermoplastic material in 3D printing. This material, while relatively easy to print with, is highly susceptible to absorbing moisture from the surrounding environment. Moisture absorption can significantly degrade the printing quality, leading to issues like stringing, popping, and reduced layer adhesion. For example, a spool of PLA left exposed to humid air for an extended period may exhibit noticeable printing defects.
The importance of moisture removal from PLA stems from the need to maintain consistent print quality and structural integrity of the finished product. Properly dried PLA ensures a smoother printing process, minimizes defects, and enhances the overall strength and appearance of the printed object. Historically, the significance of this process was often underestimated, leading to inconsistent results. However, with increasing awareness of the material’s hygroscopic nature, drying procedures have become a crucial step in achieving optimal 3D printing outcomes.
