If you own a 3D printer, maybe you don't know how to correctly calibrate the tension in the belts- Today I will show you BCN3D Belt Tensioner, a printed tool that helps you measure and adjust the belt tension of your printer. This tool is very useful to keep your printer in good shape and avoid common printing issues related to the belt tension, such as layer shifting or ghosting.
In this post, I will explain how to print, use and adjust the BCN3D Belt Tensioner for your 3D printer. You can download the STL file and the instructions from this article: BCN3D Tensor de correa
How to print the BCN3D Belt Tensioner
To print the BCN3D Belt Tensioner, you will need:
- PLA filament
- A 0.4mm hotend
- A PLA 0.2mm Standard Quality profile in your slicer
The printing process is very simple:
- Download the STL file from this article: BCN3D Tensor de correa
- Import the STL file into your slicer. Leave it at the default orientation.
- Make sure you’re using the PLA 0.2mm Standard Quality profile, and the 0.4mm hotend.
- Save the g-code and print it.
How to prepare the BCN3D Belt Tensioner
Once you have printed the tool, you will need to do some post-processing:
- Wait for the printing surface to cool down before removing the tool to prevent deformation.
- Carefully remove the piece, taking extra care not to damage the thin parts specified by arrows in this image:
- Using a felt-tipped marker, color the top of the scale lines for easier reading.
How to use the BCN3D Belt Tensioner
To use the BCN3D Belt Tensioner, you will need to follow these steps:
- To hold the device, put your index finger in the hole, and grip the sides with the rest of your fingers.
- Confirm that the movement of the tool is smooth and that the device returns to the 0 position. If not, it is because of viscoelastic creep. Let the device sit until it returns to the 0 point. Do not pull it back into position, as this will change the device’s home position.
- Check and adjust the belt tension for each axis (X and Y) putting the device on the belt and adjusting the tension until on the center lines fits with the lines of the letter.
Note: Never keep the device on the belt for more than 5 minutes at a time. This viscoelastic creep reduces the accuracy of the device.
How to adjust the belt tension
To adjust the belt tension, you maybe will need some tools:
- Allen key 2.5mm
- Allen key 2mm
- Socket wrench 5.5mm
The procedure to adjust the belt tension depends on your printer model. Some 3D printers need to loose screws to manually adjust the tension, other printers have an screw to adjust it. Just need to check how to do it in your model before proceding with this method.
Tips:
- With dual X belts, make sure that both are adjusted equally. Once the tension is correct, re-tighten the lower screws.
- With the Y belts, make sure that the external faces of the idler and the frame are parallel before finishing the adjustment.
Conclusion
The BCN3D Belt Tensioner is a handy tool that can help you improve your print quality and avoid problems caused by loose or tight belts. It is easy to print, use and adjust, and it can make a big difference in your 3D printing experience.
I hope you found this post useful and informative. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to leave a comment below or contact me on my Instagram profile: Frikarte3D Happy printing! 😊
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