When it comes to filament packaging, the choice between cardboard and plastic spools plays a significant role in sustainability. At our store, we opt for cardboard spools 90% of the time for our in-house filament, and here’s why:
Plastic recycling and waste is not managed well within Australia, with only 14% of waste recycled compare to Cardboard at higher rate of 58%. (Source: The Australia Institute , DCCEEW). In additional cardboard is made from renewable resource compare to ABS/PC where recycled materials can be used but in most case some new raw materials is still required.
We understand that cardboard spools are not as popular among AMS or similar material systems that use rollers. In our experience, this issue mainly affects users who print large multi-colour models.
In our own production, where we primarily use AMS for filament management but rarely utilise the colour change feature within the same print, we have found cardboard spools to be adequate, with a failure rate similar to plastic spools. Most failures occur when the material is nearly empty, or in the case of lower-density materials, there may be some retraction issues, but no problems once printing has started. The near empty light spool can address with added weight which required for near empty plastic as well. This is not issues with centre spool mount AMS such as AMS Lite from Bambu or filament dryer such as single EIBOS X which mostly still utilised in our production as external feeder holder/dryer.
For damaged spools, as plastic ring or filament clamp may be required, which we offer bunch of suitable and tested plastic adapter here: https://support.dremc.com.au/support/solutions/articles/51000342355-dremc-filament-printable-addons. Similar to drying at higher temperatures, the glue that holds the filament together can soften. It is recommended to use a filament clamp to prevent the spool from splitting. While cardboard can withstand higher temperatures compared to most plastic spools, the glue typically used is not rated for high temperatures and begins to lose strength around 65-70°C.
While we prefer cardboard, some specialised filaments require plastic spools for added temperature resistant and those is much better dried at higher temperatures up to 100c compare to our cardboard spool is only rated up to 70c. However, whenever possible, we stick to cardboard to support a more sustainable future.
Why no Re-Fill Spools?
- Higher production failure rate – Factories account for this in the final pricing during the transfer and zip tie process.
- Minimal weight reduction – A cardboard core and packaging are still required.
- Lack of industry standards – Different "master spool" designs create compatibility issues.
- Storage challenges – Requires a separate master spool for remaining filament, or require some sort of zip tie to secure spool before removing from master spool.
- Risk of spool damage – Some master spools can fall apart if dropped, leading to time-consuming respooling, often making it more efficient to purchase a new spool.
