SUNLU AMS Lite Heater Aims to Keep Filament Dry During Printing
SUNLU has developed a new heater designed to integrate with the Bambu Lab AMS Lite, allowing filament to be dried concurrently with printing to improve print quality.
Chinese 3D printing firm SUNLU has introduced the AMS Lite Heater, a hardware upgrade for the Bambu Lab AMS Lite system. This new device aims to address the issue of moisture absorption in 3D printing filaments, which can lead to inconsistent print quality such as stringing. The core functionality of the AMS Lite Heater is to dry filament while it is being used for printing, eliminating the need to pause print jobs or schedule separate drying cycles.
The heater features a dual-airflow channel design intended to distribute heated air evenly throughout the chamber. This even distribution is crucial for preventing hot and cool spots across the filament spool, ensuring that the entire spool is dried uniformly. Uneven drying can result in some sections of filament being over-dried while others remain too moist, impacting the final print.
To manage moisture effectively, the AMS Lite Heater incorporates a built-in vent to expel moist air and a humidity sensor. Users can set specific humidity thresholds, and the system will automatically begin drying when these levels are exceeded. This automation is designed for convenience, though SUNLU notes that periodic review of the set thresholds is recommended due to varying ambient humidity conditions.
The device can reach a maximum drying temperature of 70°C, which is suitable for materials like PLA and PETG, and within the usable range for ABS, ASA, PA, and PC. This temperature range positions the heater as beneficial for both casual users printing with PLA and those working with more demanding engineering-grade filaments. Safety features include door-open detection, temperature monitoring, and multiple integrated protections, making it suitable for extended, unattended operation.
The SUNLU AMS Lite Heater is scheduled for release on July 20, 2026, coinciding with SUNLU's 13th anniversary. The company is also expanding its US manufacturing footprint. Further details on pricing and availability are yet to be announced.
The SUNLU AMS Lite Heater addresses a critical challenge in FDM printing: filament moisture. By integrating drying directly into the multi-material feeding system, it enhances print reliability, particularly for hygroscopic materials. This development aligns with the broader industry push for automated, integrated solutions that improve material performance and streamline workflows, reducing post-processing and material waste.
Edited by the news editor with AI from the original report — please refer to the original source.