Skip to content
Education

Changing an Existing DTG Printer with Inks Over to Another Ink Set

by |Published

CISS-Carts-in-Printer-1200pxWe’ve been reviewing the process for people who are changing over to the Image Armor inks, or any other ink,  from another brand of inks and have found several key factors that must be observed to ensure a more hassle free change over experience.

Many DTG systems are not maintained properly, so we’ve released our technical bulletin below to make the change over easier. The point of this is to ensure that the entire ink delivery system is as clean as possible.

  • It is required that all inks are changed over at the same time. The 35 second cure time is not compatible with the longer cure time of other ink sets.
  • The DTG Printer must be flushed with an approved CLEANING solution. Before doing, please make sure:
    • Dampers should be replaced or re-conditioned AFTER flushing with the CLEANING Solution. Dampers are designed to collect “stuff” in the ink. The change over procedure may cause some of this “stuff” to move within the system which is undesirable. So, changing the DAMPERS after the flushing is optimal.
    • If using CISS system, inspect, replace or recondition as necessary. A new CISS system removes any doubts.
  • Do nozzle checks with CLEANING Solution to ensure all nozzles are firing. Some find clear acetate sheets or a light colored copier paper may help you see the nozzles easier.
  • If everything is CLEANED properly, you can then introduce the new ink set.

Success of your change over is dependent upon your maintenance habits. In a “clean” or new system you should not have any issues with introducing the Image Armor Inks.

See below for general maintenance that should be followed to help reduce future issues, keeping you printing and making money.

We don’t want anyone to have a bad experience, and following these bullet points will make the changeover easier and more pleasant.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE TIPS

Capping-Station-1200-pxMaintenance is key and needs to be performed on a regular basis – especially on the white ink.

  • The most attention will need to be with the white ink deliver system from bottle/bag to printhead – the CMYK generally will NOT cause you issues.
  • Good idea to put some CLEANING Solution in capping station at least every week. This will help keep this back end of your system operating correctly. Add about 5 cc’s of fluid.
  • Clean the Wiper Blade – make sure it is clean!
  • Dampers should be changed out, cleaned, back washed every 3-6 months.
  • CISS Carts should be flushed and reconditioned or insert new carts.
  • Buildup of ink on the print head surface must be removed. This “ring around the head” should be maintained weekly. Keep any buildup off the print head surface.

 

You may also like