What is the purpose of a filament dryer in FDM printing?

The purpose of a filament dryer in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printing is to remove moisture from the filament. Filament materials, especially those like nylon and PLA, are hygroscopic, meaning they can absorb moisture from the air. When this moisture is present in the filament, it can lead to issues during printing such as popping or hissing sounds, uneven extrusion, and even defects in the printed part. By using a filament dryer, the moisture content is reduced, ensuring that the filament extrudes smoothly and consistently, which enhances the overall quality of the print. This process is vital for achieving optimal results in 3D printing.