Retrofit Solution for Bambu AMS - SUNLU AMS Heater
Author: Robert Stein
Source: 3ddrucklife.de
The SUNLU AMS Heater adds a heating function to the Bambu Lab AMS system, ensuring that filament stays dry during printing. The heating module warms all four filament spools simultaneously, making handling easier. However, this limits flexibility for different materials. The article explains the design, functionality, and future prospects.
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Product Features
The SUNLU AMS Heater is placed directly on the AMS housing and uses the existing power supply. It heats filament spools to approximately 55 to 65 °C to reduce moisture. Unlike the Eibos Tetras, which uses four separate chambers with independent temperature control, the SUNLU Heater regulates the temperature of all spools to a single temperature. While this saves on control components, it does not allow for independent adjustment for materials such as PLA or ABS.
Technical Implementation
Installation is simple as no additional control box is required. The module replaces the AMS cover and is connected via a plug-in contact. Inside is a heating foil controlled by the AMS mainboard. There are no details regarding active moisture removal via a fan, although some community members add external fans to improve airflow.
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Comparison with Eibos Tetras
The Eibos Tetras divides the AMS into four separate heating chambers, each with its own temperature controller. This allows each spool to be dried individually. The SUNLU Heater, on the other hand, features a limited control system, meaning compromises must be made when using different materials in the AMS. Eibos operates independently, while the SUNLU Heater is only compatible with AMS version 1. Owners of older AMS models can perform an upgrade, but they lose fine-grained control.
Practical Implications
With mixed filament setups (e.g., PLA and nylon), a medium temperature must be chosen. Filaments with tight temperature tolerances, such as TPU, only partially benefit from the system. Third-party spools may have different diameters and thus cause errors if the AMS sensor does not clamp the filament correctly. Community adapters can solve this problem, but they do not offer an official warranty.
Community Feedback
Users are requesting a version for Creality's CFS system, which Sunlu does not currently offer. DIY enthusiasts replace the AMS cover with a sealed module and install external fans. Although this improves drying, it voids the warranty. Critics point to the lack of airflow control and predict long-term damage due to uneven heating.
Summary
The SUNLU AMS Heater offers AMS-1 owners an affordable expansion. It simplifies the drying process but requires a uniform temperature for all spools. Those who only use one type of filament in their AMS and are looking for a budget-friendly option will find it effective. However, users with mixed filament types and high requirements for airflow control may opt for premium modules or customized solutions.
