A year after SUNLU successfully launched the FilaDryer S4, the company is introducing the FilaDryer E2, a two-spool solution designed for engineering-grade materials like ABS, PA(Nylon), CF(Carbon Fiber), and other higher-temperature filaments. This new device also features a second novel function: an annealing mode for post-processing, which boosts 3D printed parts properties. In this article, we review FilaDryer E2, test various settings, measure operating temperatures, compare to the other devices on the market, and conclude with a list of pros and cons.
Table of Contents
- Specifications
- Unboxing and Design
- Drying Mode
- Annealing Mode
- Teflon Tubes and Setups
- Other Tests
- Compare to Other Filament Dryers
- Product Launch Pricing
- Conclusion and Pros & Cons
SUNLU FilaDryer E2 Specifications:
- E – Engineering, 2 – Two Spools
- Size: 400mm x 300mm x 220mm (15.75″ x 11.81″ x 8.66″)
- Temperature: Up to 110°C (230°F)
- Annealing Feature for Printed Parts
- Number of Spools: 2x 1KG, 1x 2KG, 1x3KG
- Fast Heating Up Speed
- Filament feed from the sides and top
- Compatibility with all engineering filaments:
- ABS, ASA, PC, PA, CF, and others, including common materials.
- Intelligent Protection System
- Airtight Design
Unboxing and Design
My FilaDryer E2 arrived in a bigger box than usual, as it included an extra eight filament spools. I was informed that my device comes with the first batch of machines and that there will be some product optimizations where needed.
Boxed FilaDryer E2 and Filament
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
– What’s in the Box. The package should include the power cord, PTFE tubes, annealing tray, and heat-resistant gloves. However, the gloves were missing from my batch. I must say that gloves are essential for quickly handling spools and prints without waiting for them to cool down, as some spools become too hot to handle safely.
SUNLU FilaDryer E2 and Accessories
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
– Damaged During Handling/Transportation. Upon close inspection, I noticed that my FilaDryer E2 is damaged: one of its feet is pushed in. I have already contacted the SUNLU team to provide feedback, helping them address the issue and add extra protection or reinforcements where necessary.
Damaged – Feet Pushed In
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
E2 with Bottom Lid Unscrewed
To ensure that no electronics were damaged, I removed the bottom lid to inspect the device. Given that this is a high-temperature device with sensitive electronics, it’s always better to be cautious. To my relief, the area where the legs were pushed in contained no electronics. If the impact had occurred on the electronics side, there could have been potential rubbing against the wires. Update: I glued the broken feet using super glue after my initial testing. We will see for how long it will last.
– Design. Like the other devices in the SUNLU FilaDryer family (S4 and S1), the FilaDryer E2 has a sleek, transparent design with a bright green LED indicator that stops moving and lights up once the chamber reaches the assigned temperature.
SUNLU Filament Dryers – E2, S4 and S2
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
– Airtight. Compared to the S4 and S1, the E2 is the most airtight, thanks to its rubber plugs and sealed lid. According to the manufacturer, placing a desiccant dehumidifier in the designated area allows it to function as a storage dry box. Another benefit of sealing is that the operating fans are less noisy.
– Touchscreen. The E2 touchscreen may not match the quality of those on newer generation 3D printers. But, it still allows for easy navigation through functions and complements the overall design of the FilaDryer series. All presets and settings were straightforward to adjust using the [SET] button along with the up and down buttons.
SUNLU FilaDryer E2 Touchscreen and Settings
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
– RH 10%. The only aspect I couldn’t understand and wished was more precise is the humidity reader, which was always at RH 10%. However, the SUNLU site provided an explanation: If the product set working temperature ≥ 80 ℃, humidity detection module will be in a protective state (display humidity RH 10%) is a normal phenomenon when the drying box temperature is reduced to 70 ℃, about 20H, humidity detection module automatically restore the original precision.
– Instructions. The included operation instructions are quite handy. I got a quick sneak peek at the annealing mode settings directly from them. They also include helpful tips, such as: ‘For optimal drying, keep the silicone plug open during drying.’
Operating Instructions
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
– Safety. Safety is paramount with this 500W heating device, as high temperatures can rise quickly. According to the manufacturer, an alarm will sound, and heating will stop if temperatures become abnormally high. In my own tests outside the enclosure, temperature readings stayed within acceptable ranges. Needless to say, the device is made from fire-resistant materials. While I can’t offer a comprehensive assessment yet, after several hours of use, external temperatures remained within normal limits. See the thermal footage below.
Drying Mode
In our previous guides, we thoroughly explained the importance of keeping filaments dry and using filament dryers. To put it briefly, it’s essential for improving the quality of 3D prints.
One of the main features of the SUNLU FilaDryer E2 is its high-speed heating and higher drying temperature limits. By pressing [SET], you can cycle through the preset filament drying modes, such as PA(Nylon), CF(Carbon Fiber), ABS, and others.
As a quick test, I started a print on the Creality K1 using SUNLU’s Easy PA(Nylon) filament. While the model I chose wasn’t intended for engineering purposes, it produced an interesting result.
Creality K1 and SUNLU FilaDryer E2
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
I was pleased to see the Creality K1 pull the filament smoothly without extra PTFE tubes despite entering the 3D printer at nearly a horizontal angle.
While the PA(Nylon) setting heated the chamber to 100°C (212°F), readings from an infrared thermometer revealed temperature variations across different areas, as hot air flowed in a counterclockwise loop from right to left.
Infrared Thermometer Measuring FilaDryer E2 Parts
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
Another device, a TopDon thermal camera, offered a more visual view of the overall heat distribution. You can see the live thermal camera view in our short YouTube video featuring SUNLU FilaDryers.
FilaDryer E2 – Thermal Camera View
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
The functional, themed sticky note holder printed very well in Easy-PA (Nylon) with a nozzle temperature of 270°C and a heated bed at 80°C. However, upon cooling, the thin wall in the holder area bent quickly. The print would have failed if it hadn’t been placed in the chamber for post-processing in annealing mode. See images below.
Annealing Mode
Annealing in 3D printing means heating a printed part below its melting point to relieve stress, improve stability, and enhance its properties.
I had a great example of a model that printed well in regular and exotic PLAs but showed an interesting bend in the holding area when printed in Easy-PA. I must admit I hadn’t used this material before, so there might be specific cooling settings to avoid this issue. Nevertheless, it was perfect for my task. I tested E2 annealing mode right on this model to see if it could fix the problem.
Nylon Print with the Bent Base
Themed Note Holder on Printables
©3DWithUs – Print and Photo: Max Funkner
Annealing mode presets on the E2 range between 2 to 6 hours and temperatures of 80°C (176°F) to 100°C (212°F). In my case, I left my print in the chamber for about 10 minutes, during which it became soft and flexible. I could then carefully ‘massage’ the bent area back into its designed position, significantly improving the bend.
3D Prints Annealed in SUNLU FilaDryer E2
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
Physically manipulating different types of plastics is possible with a heat gun, but the results are often uneven. One side of the printed part might even get damaged before the other side has fully warmed up. In contrast, an annealing chamber ensures the entire model is heated evenly.
As a fun test, I placed a Benchy printed in white PLA into the chamber, and within about ten minutes, it became soft enough to squeeze with just two fingers. Poor Benchys – I have a feeling many more will become test “victims” of this device!
Importance of the Teflon Tubes and Setups
As instructions suggest, the Teflon tubes should be installed, especially if there is a sharp filament travel curve.
In my previous FilaDryer S4 review, I tested various setups with different printers and positions. However, the PTFE tubes provided with the E2 are quite short. I would recommend that SUNLU include longer PTFE tubes or offer custom-length options as an add-on for a more sustainable solution. For reference, here’s an example of the FilaDryer S4 setup on the Snapmaker Artisan.
SUNLU FilaDryer S4 on Snapmaker Artisan Enclosure
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
The two PTFE tubes feeding filament to the Snapmaker dual extruder are over a meter long. When using such long tubes, it is important to use high-quality filaments with consistent diameters. Additionally, it’s a good practice to check for excessive filament feeding resistance. My XYZ Cube test print was completed without issues, as shown in a short YouTube video.
I like this setup and would love to have custom brackets to hold the S4 on top of the Artisan enclosure. Placing the E2 on the enclosure feels excessive and would complicate the use of the annealing mode.
Other Tests
As my SUNLU FilaDryer E2 testing continues, I’ve geared up with some very interesting engineering-grade filaments from SUNLU, including Easy-PA, PC-ABS, PA6-CF, and PA12-CF. I’ve also prepared filaments from Inslogic, such as ASA, PETG Pro, TPU 95A, and Matte PLA. Additionally, my shelves still hold ABS, PETG, and a variety of PLA. Slowly but steadily, I will cover these materials in various reviews and add the results here. If you’d like me to test annealing or drying with specific materials or prints, please share the details in the comments below. I may speed up the process…
Other Filament Dryers
On 3DWithUs, we have a detailed filament dryer comparison guide where products from brands such as EIBOS, Creality, Eryone, Sovol, and others are listed for price and feature comparisons.
- SUNLU FilaDryer S4 (Review)
- Polymaker PolyDryer (Review)
- Filament Drying Solutions for Snapmaker 3D Printers (Guide)
Other filament dryers, such as the EIBOS Polyphemus and FIXDRY, are also designed to hold two spools or a single 3KG filament spool. PolyMaker’s PolyDryers offer a convenient, integrated storage solution with their PolyDryer Box.
In comparison, the SUNLU FilaDryer E2 belongs to a different, engineering-grade category, standing out as a two-in-one device that combines a high-temperature airtight filament dryer with an annealing feature.
Performance Comparison with Other FilaDryers
Image: SUNLU
The comparison with other SUNLU FilaDryers, S2 and S4, is covered in detail in this guide. While the S2 and S4 are suitable for consumer-grade filaments, the E2 is designed for engineering-grade filaments and includes an additional annealing function.
SUNLU FilaDryers E2, S4 and S2
©3DWithUs – Photo: Max Funkner
Conclusion and Pros and Cons
The SUNLU FilaDryer E2 stands out as an innovative and versatile device, despite a minor issue with a pushed-in leg. Its ability to quickly reach high-temperature limits makes it an excellent addition for professionals working with engineering-grade materials. This filament dryer simplifies the maintenance of advanced filaments, making it easier than ever to handle materials like PA, PC-ABS, and carbon fiber blends.
The annealing post-processing feature is a game-changer, providing users with the ability to experiment with filaments and prints in a controlled environment. Gone are the days of relying on kitchen ovens for annealing parts or drying desiccant dehumidifiers.
Although the FilaDryer E2 is two to three times more expensive than other filament dryers on the market, its 2-in-1 functionality unlocks previously unavailable possibilities for 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals alike. This device offers a glimpse into a future where advanced material handling and post-processing are more accessible and streamlined.
SUNLU has steadily built its reputation as a specialist in 3D printing materials, and the FilaDryer E2 is a testament to their pioneering spirit. This innovative product addresses the evolving demands of the 3D printing community, delivering both functionality and inspiration. We eagerly anticipate the new discoveries and advancements that will arise from the accessibility of this remarkable device.
Pros:
- Heating Up Very Quickly
- Affordable on Proffesional Level
- Dual-Chamber Design
- Annealing Feature
- Airtight
Cons:
- Annealing Tray Could be Better Optimized
- Limited Space for Annealing
- Price
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- Retrieved from: SUNLU FilaDryer E2 Review: Filament Drying and Annealing 2-in-1