BLTouch Sensors for Level 3D Printing

Accuracy is crucial for 3D printing an effective replica. When trying to create a near-perfect, three-dimensional clone of an object, one issue that continues to come up is leveling. Precise leveling can be tedious, but inventor Paris K. Lee has created an amazing accessory for the 3D printer which can now make your job a much simpler one. Her automatic leveling sensor, dubbed the BLTouch sensor, can be installed on most existing 3D printers that are out there. As with most parts and accessories for 3D printers, this accessory will be difficult to track down at your local tech stores, but you can easily buy the BLTouch sensor for 3D printers online.

What Is the BLTouch Sensor?

The BLTouch sensor measures the tilt of the surface and adjusts the height to move around during printing. The technology comes equipped with a well-designed solenoid and hall sensor, the latter of which will cause the BLTouch to pulse a signal when it senses a magnet. This feature, called the inside interrupt, helps prevent any delay in the printing process. The solenoid and hall sensor also work together to make this automatic-leveling sensor extremely precise. Standard deviation when using this product is at only about 0.005 mm, varying for the type and quality of the 3D printer in your possession, of course. Before you assume you shouldn’t buy the BLTouch sensor for 3D printers online because your equipment isn’t up to speed, keep in mind even lower quality 3D printers have been known to have only between 0.001 to 0.05 mm of standard deviation. Such a low margin for error will provide an accurate reading, and should help produce some quality replications.

Special Features

As far as installation goes, the controls for the BLTouch are comprised of an RC servo and a micro switch. Since this device uses the RC servo motor signal intact, you should be able to remove the servo motor and plug it into the same pins. In depth instructions will come with the BLTouch sensors for 3D printers you buy online, but you can also find videos that show how to attach and install the features as well. Always remember to consult the instruction manual that comes with the product first.

Another nice feature of the BLTouch auto-leveling sensor is its self-testing capability and built in alarm system. When the application is turned on, the push pin will test three times in a row before attempting to carry out its main function. If an issue comes up, either in the test or even during the actual leveling, the alarm feature will cause the LED light to stop and blink rapidly to indicate a change is needed before continuing.

The BLTouch auto-leveling sensor has gained much headway in the 3D printing world over the last few years. Many users have been saying they cannot believe that the automatic leveling system was not a standard piece of equipment on 3D printers everywhere, but thanks to this breakthrough invention, everyone is now able to add that feature when they buy the BLTouch sensor for 3D printers online. Experts warn that you should fully understand your 3D printer and its operating system before trying to install and use any additional features like the BLTouch sensor.

Jonah Smith ​is a writer and an avid reader. When he's not writing about business, marketing, health, pets, or relationships, he's immersed in his latest book.