Assembly Manual Tap
Assembly Manual Tap
VORON TAP
We build space shuttles with gardening tools
so anyone can have a space shuttle of their own.
VERSION 2022-12-16
INTRODUCTION WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
In the comfort of your own home, you are about to assemble a robot. This machine
can maim, burn, and electrocute you if you are not careful. This machine can start a
fire.
Please do not become the first VORON fatality. There is no special Reddit flair for that.
Please read the entire manual before you start assembly. As you begin wrenching,
please check our Discord channels for any tips and questions that may halt your progress.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
Printing Guidelines 4
Welcome to Tap 8
BOM 15
Assembly 18
Toolhead Install 34
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PRINT SETTINGS WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
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BEFORE WE BEGIN WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
FILE NAMING
The STL files for our parts are available in our Github repository. The parts use this naming convention:
These files will have nothing at We have added “[a]” to the front Part names will have a revision
the start of the filename. of any STL file that is intended to number at the end (e.g., “r1”).
be printed with accent color. The It is normal for revision numbers
parts are marked with a heart in to not match up: not all parts are
the manual. changed for every revision.
Always see the Github repository
for the latest parts.
HOW TO GET HELP
If you need assistance with your build, we’re here to help. Head on over to our Discord group, Forum, or to Reddit and post
your questions. We have a great community that can help you if you get stuck.
https://discord.gg/voron
https://forum.vorondesign.com/
https://www.reddit.com/r/VORONDesign
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WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
REPORTING ISSUES
Should you find an issue in the documentation or have a suggestion for an improvement, please
consider opening an issue on GitHub (https://github.com/VoronDesign/Voron-Tap/issues). When raising
an issue, please include the relevant page numbers and a short description. Annotated screenshots are
also very welcome and helpful. We periodically update the manual based on the feedback we get.
https://github.com/vorondesign
DOCS https://docs.vorondesign.com
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AN ASSEMBLY MANUAL? WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
We need to write an assembly manual?
…AND DONE.
This is all you need to see, really.
But, just in case though, read
through this document carefully.
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INTRODUCTION: WELCOME TO TAP WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
WHAT IS TAP?
Tap is a nozzle-based z-probe for the V2 and Trident printer designs. The entire toolhead moves to trigger an optical switch.
Tap offers many advantages over other z-probes; Here are a few examples:
EXTREME PRECISION
A well constructed Tap, when in service on a well-constructed printer, will be able to measure your Z position reliably with a precision of 0.4 µm
(0.0004 mm). This precision will help you better use and maintain your printer.
NO COMPLICATED MACROS
For consistent probing temperatures, Tap uses a single ‘activate_gcode’ macro in the [probe] config. Tap is always ready to probe and requires no
docking or undocking moves.
Z ENDSTOP ELIMINATION
There is no need for a separate Z endstop. Once the offset is configured, it will hold without appreciable drift. It is normal to need slightly different
offsets when switching between filament types.
CRASH PROTECTION
With Tap installed, the nozzle and bed are protected from minor crashes (such as accidentally setting your Z to 1 mm below the build surface, or
running into a curled up print). In extreme crashes, Tap can break away completely, saving you from a hidden break elsewhere in your printer.
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IMPORTANT WARNINGS! WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS:
YOU MUST USE THE MGN12H X-AXIS
You must already be using the MGN12 based X-Axis.Tap does not fit on the older MGN9 based X-axis.
If you want to know if Tap is right for you, tap your finger on the bed firmly. If the bed moves, Tap is not right for
you.
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SERIOUSLY…HOW DOES THIS THING WORK? WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
TOOLHEAD ON A RAIL
With Tap, the entire toolhead (including Extruder) can move in the Z direction on a short MGN9 rail with a MGN9H carriage. In normal printing
operation, the toolhead is held in place by a pair of magnets, acting on a pair of screws. During probing the toolhead lifts up slightly, activating a
photointerrupter switch concealed in the mechanism.
CENTER (RED)
Houses magnets, retains belts, and is connected
to the MGN12H X-axis. Up top, there’s a plastic
tab that triggers the optical sensor.
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SIDE VIEW WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
Magnetic and gravitational forces keep the toolhead from shifting during printing. If the
nozzle contacts something solid (like the bed), the black section of Tap and toolhead move
TAP REPLACES THE X CARRIAGE
up, and the optical sensor will trigger. There are stops built in to prevent it from moving too
Tap is a drop in replacement for the X Carriage.
far, unless you really want the front to fall off.
The toolhead and extruder mount to Tap, which
is mounted to the MGN12 X axis.
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SENSOR OPTIONS WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
CHOOSE TO USE EITHER THE WIRED OPTICAL SENSOR OR THE PCB-BASED SENSOR
WIRED OPTICAL SENSOR:
Tap was designed to use and Optek OPB991 sensor (see BOM for part numbers)
Pre-release versions of Tap used OPB990 sensors. We switched to 991 because some MCU’s were shown to be sensitive to having +5v on a signal pin.
These sensors are pre-wired, but you will have to add a 220 Ohm resistor to the wiring as a current limiter. The exact resistance is not critical, it can be +/- 10% of 220 Ohms, and should be rated for ¼
watt or higher. Soldering this resistor is no harder than adding the diode for the old inductive sensors…but soldering isn't for everyone. See next page for details on soldering this together.
PCB-BASED SENSOR:
Recognizing that soldering is difficult for some builders, Voron engineers designed a PCB-based sensor. This mounts an Optek OPB666N or OPB971N sensor. This PCB has the advantage of having
an indicator light on the board. The files for making this may be found on the Voron Github. https://github.com/VoronDesign/Voron-Tap/tree/main/OptoTap
~10-15 mm
220 Ohm ¼ watt resistor (+/-
Black/Green: To MCU 0V
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PRINT THESE FOUR PARTS WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
+
WIRED SENSOR:
Use Tap_Upper_Wired_r1.stl if you use the wired
sensor. Notice the wiring channel in blue.
CENTER
[a]Tap_Center_r1.stl
LEFT MAGNET HOLDER
Tap_Magnet_Left_r1.stl. Note
the left has 2 dots marked in
blue below
D2HW-C203MR SWITCH
Use Tap_Upper_D2HW_r1.stl if you use the
mechanical switch.
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BILL OF MATERIALS (BOM) WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
Qty Description Notes
1 50 mm MGN9 rail See cutting guide in this manual for details.
1 MGN 9H carriage Medium preload (Z1) is preferred, light or no preload will also work. Carriage must be removable from rail.
2 6 mm x 3 mm magnet 6 mm diameter by 3 mm tall cylinder. N52 strength is preferred , N35 or higher strength is required.
11-12 M3 heat-set insert These are standard Voron inserts, 5 mm diameter 4 mm long. 11 for optical versions, 12 for the D2HW version.
1 M3 hex nut ISO 4032 / DIN 934
6 M3 washer ISO 7089 / DIN 125 7 mm outer diameter, 0.5 mm thickness
2 M3 x 20 SHCS ISO 4762 / DIN 912 socket head cap screw
2 M3 x 16 SHCS ISO 4762 / DIN 912 socket head cap screw
1 M3 x 12 SHCS ISO 4762 / DIN 912 socket head cap screw
3 M3 x 8 SHCS ISO 4762 / DIN 912 socket head cap screw
1 M3 x 6 SHCS ISO 4762 / DIN 912 socket head cap screw
2 M3 x 6 FHCS ISO 10642 / DIN 7991 flat head cap screw MUST BE MAGNETIC, NO STAINLESS!
2 M3 x 10 BHCS ISO 7380-1 button head cap screw
10 M3 x 6 BHCS ISO 7380-1 button head cap screw
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HARDWARE REFERENCE WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
MAGNETS
FLAT HEAD COUNTERSUNK SCREW How do they work?
(FHCS) These are round 6mm in diameter by
Metric fastener with a cone shaped head and 3 mm tall. Shorter ones are OK.
a flat top. (down to 2.7 mm)
MUST BE MAGNETIC, NO STAINLESS! N52 are preferred, but N35 can work
ISO 10642
Lower strength might cause ringing
at high acceleration.
AW, NUTS!
Actually, its just the one nut. HEAT-SET INSERT
We don’t like nut pockets either, but These are made of brass , threaded on
sometimes its the right move. the inside and and has ridges on the
Metric fastener. Only used in M3 size. outside. Heat them up to approx 250C
with a soldering iron and push them into
ISO 4032
the plastic.
As the plastic cools, it solidifies around
WASHER
the knurls and ridges on the insert for
Usually stamped from sheet metal, this
excellent resistance to both torque and
type of spacer is not as consistent in
pull-out.
thickness as the shims are. Only used in
M3 size.
DIN 125
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TOOLS WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
SOLDERING IRON
PRINTED CUT GUIDE
We use this for setting heat-set inserts into
If you have to cut your MGN9 yourself,
parts. Depending on your sensor choice,
this can help you mark the places to cut.
you might be soldering some wires
Remove the tool before cutting, or you
together.
will melt it to the rail.
ANGLE GRINDER/DREMEL
If you can’t find a pre-cut 50 mm MGN9
SUPERGLUE
rail, you’ll need to cut down a longer one.
Yes, we consider this a tool. Superglue is
Leave your grandfather’s trusty hacksaw
useful as a plastic safe threadlock, and
in the toolbox: rails are usually hardened
magnet glue. Cheap, single-use gel tubes
steel.
are fine.
VISE
A vise is handy if you have to cut your
MGN9 rail. A vise may also be helpful
when putting magnets in their holders. MGN9 ASSEMBLY TOOL
We love this thing. Print it. You will need
WIRING CRIMPER it.
You’ll need this to wire up the sensor.
Or maybe theres a turnkey solution out Marvel at its simplicity and wonder why
there you can buy, check Discord. If you you never thought of it before.
got this far without learning how to crimp,
we don’t judge.
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WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
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MGN9 CUTTING GUIDE WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
ENDS CAN BE +/- 1 MM OFF FROM THIS
DRAWING
Just make sure you have 3 holes spaced
like so. One in the center, and the other
two ~ 5 mm from the ends.
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REMOVE SUPPORTS WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
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MAGNETS WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
MAGNET PRESS
(2) 6x3 magnets 1. Place magnet on a flat surface (polarity doesn’t
2 drops RTV or Superglue matter)
2. Place a drop of CA glue on top of the magnet
3. Place magnet holder on magnet.
4. Using a strong flat tool, firmly press magnet holder
down over magnet.
DO YOU SMELL…GLUE?
Yes, yes you do. Specifically superglue, but you could also use RTV silicone, just a drop. Is all that is needed.
Despite our best efforts, the magnets can still come loose without it.
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HEAT-SET INSERTS WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
HEAT-SET INSERTS
This design relies on heat-set inserts.
Make sure you have the proper inserts
(check the hardware reference for a
close up picture and the BOM for
dimensions).
https://voron.link/m5ybt4d
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HEAT-SET INSERTS AND M3 NUT WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
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WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
CORRECTLY INSERTED
There is a cone-shaped access hole to allow you
to insert these heat-sets to the correct depth.
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WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
2.5 mm
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WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
OPTICAL SENSOR SCREWS INTO PLASTIC, BE
GENTLE
Note that OPB991P or OPB991L wired sensors
will only have one M3x8 here, while the wired
OPB991T and all PCB-based sensors have two
screws.
(1 or 2) M3x8 SHCS
Optical Wired
FUN FACT
This part has thin voids inside it (blue). When the part
is sliced, these produce internal ribs which strengthen
the part. If your slicer closes these up, recheck your
slicer settings for hole size compensation. Default
slicer profiles are available for Voron printers in the
github repository.
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ASSEMBLE CENTER WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
M3x10 BHCS
+ M3 washer
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ASSEMBLE CENTER WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
M3x6 SHCS
M3x8 SHCS
M3x12 SHCS
+ heatset
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INSTALL X-SWITCH/ HALL MAGNET (OPTIONAL)
WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
IF YOU USE THE STANDARD XY ENDSTOP POD FROM V2, SKIP THIS PAGE
These steps are only for printers that use either a carriage mounted X switch or
need a magnet for the x-axis hall effect endstop
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INSTALL CENTER WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
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INSTALL MGN9H CARRAGE WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
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INSTALL FRONT WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
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TOOLHEAD INSTALL WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
EXTRUDER INSTALL
The extruder motor plate should fit tightly on top of Tap.
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WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
CHECK TOOLHEAD CLEARANCE
The toolhead rear rests on the lowermost 2 screws, but must clear the four
screws that secure the front of Tap. Some toolheads may need to be carved
back to avoid hitting these screws.
CUTAWAY VIEW
In blue are the four screws and the surface that may need to be trimmed back.
CORRECT INSTALLATION
Toolhead is flat against Tap, and can be
firmly secured.
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FINAL ASSEMBLY: RELEASE THE MAGNETS WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
With the magnets aligned and screws tightened, you should be able to
push up on the entire toolhead, and it will move 1-2 mm before hitting
it’s stop. If your sensor has an indicator light and is connected, it should
change state when you push up on the toolhead by hand.
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MORE RESOURCES WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
The software setup and other initial setup steps with your new printer can also be found on our
documentation page. We recommend starting with the Tap-Klipper Instructions on our Github.
DOCS https://docs.vorondesign.com
https://github.com/VoronDesign/Voron-Tap
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WWW.VORONDESIGN.COM
https://discord.gg/voron
https://forum.vorondesign.com/
https://www.reddit.com/r/VORONDesign
REPORTING ISSUES
Should you find an issue in this document or have a suggestion for an improvement please consider opening an issue on GitHub
(https://github.com/VoronDesign/Voron-Tap/issues).
When raising an issue, please include the relevant page numbers and a short description. Annotated screenshots are also very
welcome and helpful.
We periodically update the manual based on the feedback we get.
38