In July of 2020, SUNLU launched its Filadryer S1 filament dryer on Kickstarter, marking the debut of the first filament dry box from a well-established brand. As pioneers in drying oven products, SUNLU currently commands the largest share of the filament dryer market. Building on the success of their previous two filament dryers, SUNLU has developed a substantial filament dryer box tailored to 3D printer enthusiasts who possess multiple 3D printers.
Today, SUNLU introduces their latest innovation in filament drying – the S4. This new release aims to surpass the achievements of its predecessors and offer a robust solution for drying multiple spools concurrently.
Given that many 3D printing filaments are prone to absorbing moisture from the air, which can lead to printing complications, having a dependable filament drying system becomes paramount to achieving successful prints. Let’s delve deeper into the features and benefits that the SUNLU S4 brings to the table.
Design and Construction
The SUNLU S4 boasts an elegant rounded square design featuring eight air vents that facilitate optimal airflow. There are four air vents on the top and an additional four on the front and rear of the device. It comes equipped with four spool holders, enabling the drying of four spools simultaneously. This represents a significant upgrade from SUNLU’s previous dryers, which were limited to a single spool capacity. Moreover, the upper covers are detachable, allowing for personal replacement with 3D printed parts.
At the heart of the S4 lies a 350W PTC heater, delivering a remarkable 50% increase in heating efficiency compared to prior models. The PTC heater self-regulates its heat output, tapering down as the desired temperature is reached to prevent overheating. The unit incorporates three built-in fans that effectively circulate hot air to uniformly and efficiently dry filaments.
The S4 is also equipped with dual sensors to monitor temperature and humidity levels. The included touchscreen simplifies operation, featuring pre-set drying profiles for common filament types. An intelligent dehumidification mode maintains low interior humidity during operation, effectively preventing continuous heating.
Performance and Convenience
During testing, the S4 achieved its target temperature of 70°C in less than 5 minutes, thanks to the upgraded heater and enhanced fans. This temperature was consistently maintained throughout the drying chamber, resulting in even drying of filaments and restoration of printing performance.
The combination of preset profiles, a spacious touchscreen, and the ability to accommodate multiple spools makes the S4 an incredibly convenient drying solution. Users simply need to load up to four spools, select their material type, and allow the S4 to handle the rest. The automatic dehumidification mode eliminates the need for manual drying between uses. With its capacity for four spools, it proves especially suitable for multi-color 3D printing, efficiently expediting tasks similar to Hueforge painting 3D printing.
Additional Features
Although designed primarily for filament drying, the S4 can also serve as a drying solution for other items like dried fruits and jerky. Its adjustable temperature settings lend versatility beyond the realm of 3D printing – you can even use it to warm your shoes and gloves.
Notably, the S4 is lightweight and portable, easily movable and storable when not in use. The spool holders are designed to lock in place, preventing spills during transport.
The SUNLU S4 simplifies the process of keeping multiple filament spools dry and primed for printing. With its enhanced heater, dual sensors, preset profiles, and automatic dehumidification, it offers dependable and hassle-free performance. While price may be a factor for some buyers, the S4’s capabilities and ability to dry multiple spools make it a valuable investment for the convenience it delivers. For individuals seeking an efficient dry box capable of handling a range of materials, the SUNLU S4 stands out as an exceptional choice well worth considering.
