Place the dryer so the filament follows a smooth route to the printer without tight bends, rubbing or tension at the toolhead’s travel limits. The shortest route is not useful if it pulls on the moving printer.
Trace the path in four sections
- Spool to outlet: check rotation and whether the filament catches a flange.
- Outlet to tube: use the specified fittings and tube dimensions.
- Tube to printer: avoid kinks and pinch points.
- Moving section: verify clearance throughout the printer’s documented motion check.
The PolyDryer manual includes its own outlet and PTFE setup. Use that model’s instructions for its fittings; this route checklist does not authorize modifying outlets or defeating seals.
For a one-roll purchase, the original Space Pi versus fan-equipped S2 comparison applies these station-layout checks to two actual candidates. Use it after sketching your loading space and filament route.
The print works from an open holder but not the dryer
Compare the added parts of the route: spool contact, outlet angle, fittings and tubing. Do not immediately increase extruder pressure to overcome a restriction that appeared with the new setup.
I need a longer tube
Check the printer and dryer requirements, including filament diameter and the permitted feed arrangement. Route it with broad curves and sufficient movement allowance. Do not assume every PTFE tube sold for printing has the same internal dimensions.
| Before starting | Confirm |
|---|---|
| Lid closed | No rubbing or trapped filament |
| Printer movement | No tube pulling or contact with hot/moving parts |
| Initial extrusion | No new slipping or hesitation |
If resistance remains, return to the feed diagnosis. A dryer’s heating ability and its suitability as a feed station are separate checks.
