It’s called the “Masterspool”
The masterspool is a concept by 3D Solutech, a company that sells PLA and other types of filament for the 3D printer. The concept is simple… print a reusable spool and save some money on filament. The average cost of PLA on amazon is somewhere around $19. You can buy filament for the masterspool for only $15 (a few bucks cheaper). It comes wound on a cardboard tube and is held together with cable ties.
Ecofriendly
The masterspool is environmentally friendly because it can be reused over and over again. This is great news, because your typical spool isn’t even recyclable. It goes to the trash, unless you can find another purpose for it.
It’s not perfect. A few negatives…
In a more perfect world, everyone would be using reusable spools, and filament would be sold for that type of platform by default, but unfortunately, that is not the case… at least not yet. I’m not entirely sure why, because it seems like a really good idea, and in more ways than one.
The problem I think is due to these two issues (mainly the first one):
- There are limited color & material options for the masterspool.
- Transferring filament to the masterspool can be a bit tricky.
The first item mentioned, in my opinion, is the BIG issue. Several weeks ago you could buy filament for the masterspool in over six different colors. This week I see only three. I hope this is not some kind of trend and will reach out to 3D Solutech regarding this question.
The second item is not really an issue… if you are careful. When you transfer the filament to the masterspool and remove the cable ties, the filament will relax outward. It’s intentionally wound tighter in order to fit the spool. Because of this, there is potentially for the filament to wedge.
Despite these negatives, I still think a reusable spool is a good idea and that more people should be aware of the option. I’m just hoping that the lack of supply right now is only due to the high demand; that 3D Solutech just needs to restock their shelves.
See how I printed my own…
Link to Masterspool Filament:
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