> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://wiki.polymaker.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://wiki.polymaker.com/printing-tips/common-printing-issues/cardboard-spool-ams-issues.md).

# Cardboard Spool AMS Issues

## Polymaker Cardboard Spool AMS Optimization & Adapter Guide

Over 14 years in the 3D printing industry, we have seen spool design and user expectations evolve significantly. Polymaker adopted cardboard spools early to reduce plastic waste. However, as refillable spool ecosystems and automated multi-material systems such as the Bambu Lab AMS and AMS 2 Pro became more common, their roller mechanisms could cause cardboard spools to slip, jam, or feed inconsistently. We improved our spools with high-density rigid cardboard and reinforced, rubber-coated edges for better traction and durability. However, under extreme operating conditions such as worn AMS rollers or spools that have been dented or strained during transit and heavy usage, a spool adapter provides an extra layer of reliability. We tested popular community-designed adapters in PLA, PETG, PC, and TPU. This guide summarizes the results and recommends the best combinations for each operating condition. Test

<figure><img src="https://3491278982-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCp7LK0pgIUpVwJdO2wqk%2Fuploads%2FQA38TVNdRfmhGyu4yilk%2Fpanchroma.PNG?alt=media&amp;token=ef3145ca-8b43-4c0b-b8a1-48cb182db06b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### <mark style="color:blue;">1.</mark> Recommended Adaptor Models & Print Materials

Based on tests across Bambu Lab units, spool conditions, and environments, here are our recommendations.

* **Ambient conditions or a 45°C, 12-hour AMS 2 Pro PLA drying cycle:**
  * For a lightweight, quick-printing adapter, use Model A printed in PolyLite™ PLA Pro.
  * For spools with shipping damage, severe edge wear, or rim deformation, use Model B printed in PolyLite™ PLA Pro.
* **High-Heat AMS Pro Mode**
  * For a 65°C, 12-hour drying cycle:
    * Print Model A in PolyMax™ PC.
    * Print Model B in Polymaker™ PETG or PolyMax™ PC.

<figure><img src="https://3491278982-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCp7LK0pgIUpVwJdO2wqk%2Fuploads%2FHL5Wni2RYXPOLcM0eURE%2Fspool%20adapters%201.PNG?alt=media&amp;token=e3e84361-2bd0-46a5-8829-18ba88f8b538" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### <mark style="color:blue;">2.</mark> Why Cardboard Spools Fail on Multi-Material Systems

Unlike traditional spool holders that support a spool from a central spindle, the Bambu Lab AMS and AMS 2 Pro use motorized bottom rollers. These rollers press against the outer rim to rotate the spool forward during feeding and backward during retraction. For continuous, smooth rotation, this mechanism requires three key physical factors: a uniform contact patch, consistent surface friction, and true circular geometry (concentricity). Shipping, handling, or drops can dent or flatten a cardboard rim. Continuous roller contact can also produce paper dust or cause slipping, especially when the spool is nearly empty (less than 100 g of filament) or exposed to elevated temperatures. Polymaker spools address these issues with high-density rigid cardboard and reinforced, rubber-coated rims. However, if a spool is severely deformed or the AMS rollers are worn, a 3D-printed adapter can reinforce the rim, restore concentricity, and reduce slipping.

### <mark style="color:blue;">3.</mark> Experimental Methodology & Baseline Screening

We tested popular community-designed adapters in the Bambu Lab AMS and AMS 2 Pro.

#### <mark style="color:blue;">3.1</mark> Evaluation Matrix

Each model was evaluated against seven criteria:

1. **Attachment & Fit (Pass / Fail):** Must attach smoothly and securely to a standard Polymaker cardboard spool without excessive force.
2. **Chamber Height Clearance (Pass / Fail):** The AMS lid must close and latch with the adapter installed.
3. **5-Cycle Feed/Retract Reliability (1 Pt):** Five cycles of adapter installation, spool loading, auto-feeding, auto-retraction, spool removal, and adapter removal. All five must finish without jams, feed errors, or damage to earn 1 point.
4. **Low-Mass Traction (1 Pt):** The same five-cycle test using a spool with less than 100 g of filament. All five must finish without slipping or hopping to earn 1 point.
5. **Wear & Debris Control (1 Pt):** After one hour of continuous operation, no paper dust or plastic shavings may accumulate around the rollers or AMS base.
6. **Mechanical Integrity (1 Pt):** After testing, the adapter was removed and flexed by hand:
   1. **1 point:** Retained its original shape and structural integrity.
   2. **0.5 points:** Deformed slightly but remained fully functional.
   3. **0 points:** Fractured, snapped, or failed completely.
7. **Deformed Spool Tolerance (1 Pt):** Tested on intentionally dented or distorted cardboard rims:
   1. **1 point:** Operated smoothly and was unaffected by the deformation.
   2. **0.5 points:** Deformed slightly when mounted but remained functional in the AMS.
   3. **0 points:** Could not be installed on the deformed spool.

<figure><img src="https://3491278982-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCp7LK0pgIUpVwJdO2wqk%2Fuploads%2FDStZ1EbwN7l6pTwSgf8I%2Fspool%20adapters%202.png?alt=media&amp;token=ca9a3064-325f-4864-ae09-a9c689416006" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### <mark style="color:blue;">3.2</mark> Baseline Compatibility Results

We printed several community-designed adapters in Panchroma™ Matte PLA to establish baseline mechanical compatibility. Three models delivered the best overall performance:

* [**Model A**](https://makerworld.com/zh/models/177047-polymaker-cardboard-adapter?from=search#profileId-220768)**:** POLYMAKER Cardboard Adapter, @AU3D:&#x20;
* [**Model B**](https://makerworld.com/zh/models/499865-polymaker-carboard-spool-adapter-with-silica-box?from=search#profileId-414767)**:** Polymaker Cardboard Spool Adapter with Silica Box, @Swaegner
* [**Model C**](https://makerworld.com/zh/models/127925-p1-x1-ams-cardboard-spool-adaptor?from=search#profileId-138458)**:** P1/X1 AMS Cardboard Spool Adapter, @grwang41

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th width="103.45452880859375"></th><th width="91.6363525390625"></th><th></th><th width="116.1817626953125"></th><th width="93.45458984375"></th><th width="89.8182373046875"></th><th width="116.1817626953125"></th><th width="110.727294921875"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><br></td><td><strong>Attachment &#x26; Fit</strong></td><td><strong>Chamber Clearance</strong></td><td><strong>Five-Cycle Reliability</strong></td><td><strong>Low-Mass Traction</strong></td><td><strong>Wear &#x26; Debris Control</strong></td><td><strong>Mechanical Integrity</strong></td><td><strong>Deformed Spool Tolerance</strong></td><td><strong>Total</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Model A</td><td>Pass</td><td>Pass</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3.0 / 5</td></tr><tr><td>Model B</td><td>Pass</td><td>Pass</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0.5</td><td>3.5 / 5</td></tr><tr><td>Model C</td><td>Pass</td><td>Pass</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0.5</td><td>3.5 / 5</td></tr></tbody></table>

### <mark style="color:blue;">4.</mark> Material Optimization & Thermal Testing

Although all three models passed the initial screening, each had design trade-offs:

* Models A and B were functionally reliable, but their thin, continuous rings were prone to cracking or separating along the layer lines when flexed during removal.
* Model C had the thickest walls and greatest durability, but its axial width sometimes exceeded the limited clearance in the AMS bay, causing sidewall rubbing or lid interference.

To address these issues, we tested engineering filaments selected for their mechanical and thermal properties. We also reduced Model C's axial profile on both sides to improve clearance inside the AMS bay.

#### <mark style="color:blue;">4.1</mark> Material Strategy

[**Model A**](https://makerworld.com/zh/models/177047-polymaker-cardboard-adapter?from=search#profileId-220768)**:**: Printed with PolyLite™ PLA Pro, Polymaker™ PETG, and PolyMax™ PC to improve Z-axis strength. PolyLite™ TPU 95A was also tested as a flexible option.&#x20;

[**Model B**](https://makerworld.com/zh/models/499865-polymaker-carboard-spool-adapter-with-silica-box?from=search#profileId-414767): Evaluated with PolyLite™ PLA Pro, Polymaker™ PETG, and PolyMax™ PC.&#x20;

[**Model C**](https://makerworld.com/zh/models/127925-p1-x1-ams-cardboard-spool-adaptor?from=search#profileId-138458)**:** Slimmed on both sides and printed in PolyLite™ PLA to evaluate the modified design's structural performance.

#### <mark style="color:blue;">4.2</mark> Active Drying Validation in the AMS 2 Pro

All assemblies underwent two active drying cycles in the AMS 2 Pro:

* **Low-heat cycle:** 45°C for 12 hours (PLA preset)
* **High-heat cycle:** 65°C for 12 hours (PETG/engineering preset)

After each cycle, we inspected the adapters for dimensional creep, softening, warping, and feed/retract performance.

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th></th><th width="102.54541015625"></th><th width="99.8182373046875"></th><th width="85.272705078125"></th><th width="119.818115234375"></th><th width="105.272705078125"></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><br></td><td><strong>5-Cycle Reliability</strong></td><td><strong>Low-Mass Traction</strong></td><td><strong>Wear &#x26; Debris Control</strong></td><td><strong>Mechanical Integrity</strong></td><td><strong>Deformed Spool Tolerance</strong></td><td><strong>Total</strong></td><td>45°C for 12 hours</td><td>65°C for 12 hours</td><td>Total mass (g)</td></tr><tr><td>Model A- PolyLite™ PLA Pro</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>4.0 / 5</td><td>Pass</td><td>Fail</td><td>9.64</td></tr><tr><td>Model A-Polymaker™ PETG</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0.5</td><td>0</td><td>3.5 / 5</td><td>Pass</td><td>Pass</td><td>9.80</td></tr><tr><td>Model A-PolyMax™ PC</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>4.0 / 5</td><td>Pass</td><td>Pass</td><td>8.84</td></tr><tr><td>Model A-PolyLite™ TPU 95A</td><td>1<br></td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1<br></td><td>0</td><td>3.0 / 5</td><td>Pass</td><td>Pass</td><td>9.48</td></tr><tr><td>Model B- PolyLite™ PLA Pro</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0.5</td><td>4.5 / 5</td><td>Pass</td><td>Fail</td><td>83.74</td></tr><tr><td>Model B-Polymaker™ PETG</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0.5</td><td>4.5 / 5</td><td>Pass</td><td>Pass</td><td>85.61</td></tr><tr><td>Model B-PolyMax™ PC</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0.5</td><td>4.5 / 5</td><td>Pass</td><td>Pass</td><td>77.22</td></tr><tr><td>Model C-PolyLite™ PLA</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0.5</td><td>3.5 / 5</td><td>Pass</td><td>Fail</td><td>94.28</td></tr></tbody></table>

Based on the mechanical and thermal test results, we recommend the following combinations.

**Standard Ambient & Low-Heat Mode**

Ambient conditions or a 45°C, 12-hour AMS 2 Pro PLA drying cycle

* **Lightweight & Fast-Printing Choice: Model A + PolyLite™ PLA Pro**
  * Uses only 9.64 g of material, making it fast and economical to print.
  * PolyLite™ PLA Pro provides the impact resistance and ductility needed to prevent the tabs from snapping during repeated installation and removal.
* **Full-Coverage Option for Deformed Spools: Model B + PolyLite™ PLA Pro**
  * Best for spools damaged by rough shipping, severe edge wear, or rim crushing.
  * Model B uses approximately nine times more material than Model A (83.74 g versus 9.64 g), but its full-rim design fits dented or warped spools that Model A cannot accommodate. It also helps restore concentricity and protect the rim.

**High-Heat AMS 2 Pro Mode**

At 65°C, standard PLA materials can soften and creep under roller pressure. Recommended configurations:

* **Model A:** PolyMax™ PC
* **Model B:** Polymaker™ PETG or PolyMax™ PC

These materials maintain dimensional stability and resist softening under continuous heat.

### <mark style="color:blue;">5.</mark> Adapter-Free Alternatives: Creality CFS and PolyDryer™

Although rim adapters are effective in the Bambu Lab AMS, some feeding and drying systems support cardboard spools directly. To evaluate adapter-free options, we tested standard Polymaker cardboard spools in the Creality CFS and Polymaker PolyDryer™.

<figure><img src="https://3491278982-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCp7LK0pgIUpVwJdO2wqk%2Fuploads%2FOjoDzmehU5t0r8SvpTxi%2Fpolydryer%20panchroma.png?alt=media&amp;token=7a780a06-e085-4a23-b4bb-b842ffb56dda" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

| <p><br></p>           | **5-Cycle Reliability** | **Low-Mass Traction** | **Wear & Debris Control** | **Mechanical Integrity** | **Deformed Spool Tolerance** | **Total** |
| --------------------- | ----------------------- | --------------------- | ------------------------- | ------------------------ | ---------------------------- | --------- |
| Creality CFS          | 1                       | 1                     | 1                         | N/A                      | 0.5                          | 3.5 / 4   |
| Polymaker PolyDryer™. | 1                       | 1                     | 1                         | N/A                      | 1                            | 4.0 / 4   |

If you prefer not to print or manage spool adapters, the Creality CFS and Polymaker PolyDryer™ provide out-of-the-box compatibility with standard cardboard spools.


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