Noma-Dryer: High-Efficiency Drying Upgrade for Inomata Dry Food Stocker

Introduction: The Quest for the "Holy Relic" of Filament Management

If the name "Inomata Kagaku Dry Food Stocker 6.0" rings a bell, you are likely a comrade-in-arms in the nightly battle against filament moisture.

In FDM 3D printing, moisture control is our lifeline. Whether it’s PETG, TPU, or even PLA, we all want our materials "bone-dry" before hitting print. For many makers, especially in the Japanese community, the Inomata Stocker has become a "holy relic"—the perfect balance of size, price, and airtightness.

I have personally operated four units for over a year, following the excellent groundwork "Filament Drybox Inomata-K Mk2"  created byKazmar @Kazmar_192412

The Vision: Reimagining the "PolyDryer" Experience

The Polymaker PolyDryer is a fantastic system that seamlessly integrates storage, drying, and feeding. However, the cost of entry for multiple units (approx. $80–$100 USD / ¥13,000–¥15,000 in Japan) can be a significant barrier for those of us managing a large filament library.

I asked myself: "Can I replicate that high-end convenience using the Inomata Stockers I already own?" By utilizing the dead space at the top (or bottom) of the stocker and integrating an affordable dual shoe dryer, the "Noma-Dryer" was born.

Key Features

• Cost-Effective: A "budget-friendly PolyDryer" concept using a sub-$30 shoe dryer.

• Dual Drying: The two-pronged dryer design allows you to dry two stockers simultaneously.

• Convertible Design: Can be mounted on either the Top or Bottom of the stocker.

• Non-Destructive: No drilling or screws required for the dryer unit itself. You can easily revert it to its original use as a shoe dryer.

• Safe Thermal Design: Operates at a constant 55°C. It includes 3, 6, and 9-hour timers with auto-shutoff, ideal for steady, long-term drying.

Required Hardware

• Shoe Dryer: SOTHING Shoe Dryer ZERO-PRO (or similar models with a 71mm diameter).

• Adhesive: Super glue (for attaching the base panels).

Print Settings & Material Warnings

[CRITICAL] Material Choice: > Since the dryer operates at 55°C, do NOT use PLA, as it will deform during use. I highly recommend PETG, PETG-GF, or other high-temp materials.

• Nozzle: 0.4 mm

• Layer Height: 0.28 mm (Standard/Draft is fine)

• Walls: 2 layers

• Top/Bottom: 3 layers (0.6 mm)

• Infill: 10% Grid

• Supports: None (Support-free design)

Assembly Instructions

1. Print: Download and print two sets of the housing, slot_cover and foot panels. You can choose between the "Compact (Bottom-only)" or "Convertible (Top/Bottom)" versions.

2. Glue: Attach the foot panels to the bottom of the housing using super glue. Note: These feet are essential to ensure the air intake is not blocked.

3. Insert: Place the dryer unit into the housing, routing the cable through the designated slot.

4. Secure: Press the dryer into the housing until it "clicks."

5. Finish: Snap the slot cover over the cable to secure it in place.

Feedback & Community

As of March 2026, this design is freshly released. While my initial tests are promising, I look forward to hearing your feedback to help refine the "Noma-Dryer" further.

Be safe and enjoy!