Inexpensive piezoelectric diaphragms can be used as sensors to facilitate both nozzle 1 height setting and build platform leveling in FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication) 3D printers. Tests 2 simulating nozzle contact are conducted to establish the available output and an output of greater 3 than 8 Volts found at 20 o C, a value which is readily detectable by simple electronic circuits. Tests 4 are also conducted at a temperature of 80 o C and, despite a reduction of greater than 80% in 5 output voltage, this is still detectable. The reliability of piezoelectric diaphragms is investigated 6 by mechanically stressing samples over 100,000 cycles at both 20 o C and 80 o C and little loss of 7 output over the test duration is found. The development of a nozzle contact sensor using a single 8 piezoelectric diaphragm is described. 9