Why Enclosures Matter
By Inno Uncle
ABS, ASA, nylon, and some engineering blends shrink as they cool. If the ambient air is too cool, the part contracts unevenly and warps off the bed or splits between layers. An enclosure traps heat around the print, slowing cooling and keeping the chamber at a steady temperature. Even a simple box can raise the internal temperature by 10-20°C, which is often enough to turn a failed print into a success.
Build Options from Cheapest to Best
- IKEA Lack table: Cheap, compact, and widely documented. Stack two tables and add acrylic panels.
- Aluminum extrusion frame: More rigid and customizable. Add polycarbonate or acrylic panels.
- Storage tote: A clear plastic box with the front cut out and a plastic sheet flap works in a pinch.
- Custom cabinet: Best for noise, heat, and filament storage. Use an external spool holder to keep feed smooth.
Safety and Ventilation
Enclosed printing with ABS or ASA releases fumes and ultrafine particles. Do not run the printer in a small bedroom with the door closed. Add a small exhaust fan with a carbon filter if you print these materials regularly. Keep a smoke detector nearby and never leave an enclosed printer running unattended for very long prints.
What to Put Inside
Include a temperature sensor so you can see what the chamber is doing. Add a small circulation fan to prevent hot spots, but keep it away from the print path. Consider a filament dry box mounted on top so the filament feeds directly into the printer without picking up moisture. Our drying box fits this role well, and our accessory collection has other upgrades to improve your printing environment.