What is a key requirement for printing parts with PLA in FDM printers?

A key requirement for printing parts with PLA (Polylactic Acid) in FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers is the need for dry storage conditions. PLA is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the environment. When PLA filament absorbs moisture, it can lead to printing issues such as bubbling, stringing, and poor layer adhesion during the printing process. To ensure optimal print quality and to avoid these issues, it is essential to store PLA filament in dry conditions, often in sealed containers with desiccants or in a controlled environment with low humidity.

While other factors such as temperature settings and cooling may also play a role in the printing process, maintaining dry storage for the filament is crucial for achieving the best results with PLA in FDM applications.