Reusable spool for Bambu refills

Update

(2025/3/5) I've updated the spool model to include a much requested lock ring. The model was tweaked so it could still be used on the AMS Lite without issue. Additionally, I've made 3 options for the lock ring. There's just the standard ring, but there's also an option for a desiccant holder, and an option for a weighted version, which utilizes 7 AA batteries for the added weight. 

Included is a model for a tool which can be used to tighten and loosen the lock ring. It prints in 3 pieces and utilizes 3 M3x8mm self tapping screws to secure the model together. 

The main spool screws together in a clockwise fashion, and the lock ring screws in counter-clockwise, securing the two halves together. 

Description

A reusable spool for use with Bambu's filament refills!

I really like Bambu's refills, and mostly used their spools. they aren't perfect though, and can be a little tedious at times. Despite there being numerous designs out there for reusable spools, I thought perhaps I could do it a little better.

Being a heavy user of Bambu's refills, I did find them kind of tedious to work with after awhile. There's variations within the winding, and the overall width can be slightly different. To make sure you don't have jams, you really have to work the filament to get it to fill the gaps once in the reusable spool.

With mine, I use a screw type design so that the width of the spool has some variability. This helps a lot with the Bambu refills. You don't have to work the filament nearly as much because you can just clamp it down. Additionally, my spool includes a groove for the filament so no filament clip is needed. A lock ring version is now available too, giving the options to lock the two halves together. 

Filaments & Hardware

(Full disclosure, I am part of the Amazon Affiliate Program. All amazon links are affiliate links. I earn a small commission from these links without any added cost to you. These links help to support me so I can bring more content for free!

I recommend printing them in ABS, especially if you intend to use a filament dryer. I've been printing mine in Bambu ABS White!

3 M3x8mm self tapping screws are needed for the tool that is used to secure the lock ring in place. I built the tool in 3 pieces so it could be strong where it needed to be and allowed me more freedom with the shapes without having to rely on overhangs or supports. You can use Bambu's screws (Like those included in the Maker's Beginner Kit), or you can purchase them from Amazon too, if you find that easier. I recommend an assortment like this from Amazon US.

The desiccant holder is meant to hold 50gram pouches, like these from Amazon US. You can put loose desiccant in there for sure, but I've found it can grind up the desiccant like that, so having it in a pouch is more ideal. 

Exclusively Yours

This model will be exclusive to the Bambu platform and Makerworld. It is targeted specifically at Bambu refills after all. I can offer no guarantee that it'll work with other manufacture's refills or whatever.

A work in progress

Annndddddd, version 2 is here! 

This model is a work in progress. I've been using it extensively, and have found it to work well for me. Despite using threads to attach the two halves together, things have stayed very snug and I haven't had any issues with the two halves coming loose. With that being said, there's some extra stuff I'd like to do, and would consider this “Version 1”. I wanted to get the model out there in the world though, get some more extensive testing going on, as I consider what Version 2 might look like. Rest assured though, when a version 2 does come, it'll be updated here.

What's to come

Nothing new planned yet! Version 2 incorporates all the features I had planned previously. 

Shout Outs

The idea for how the filament clips into the side of the spool is inspired by Henlor's Bambu Lab A1 Mini Spool. Make sure you check out Henlor's work.

Use/Manual

There's not much to it really. Insert the refill onto the spool holder as you normally would. There's a notch that's key for the cardboard cores, just like the standard Bambu reusable spool. Screw the other side in, but don't tighten it down too tight yet! First you want to remove the strips of plastic that keep the refill together, and then you want to tighten/clamp the whole thing down as much as you can. Lastly, you'll screw in the lock ring (counter clockwise) and tighten it down with the tool.