Inkjet starvation/dropout can look the same. If wide-format digital inkjet starvation/dropout occur, the following variables need to be considered when seeking a solution:
Environment
Ensure that the printing area is within Environmental Operating Parameters:
- Temperature:
- 66 ˚ F – 80 ˚ F [19 ˚ C – 27 ˚ C]
- Humidity:
- Optimum: 40% - 60% (non-condensing)
- Operational: 30% - 70% (noncondensing)
Print Head Wear & Tear
The wide-format machines Nazdar Tech Services commonly deals with use Epson DX4/5/7 print heads, which have an estimated life of 6 billion shots fired. Most machines have a feature that displays shots fired on the machine's menu and/or a printout. The print heads are communicating to the machine's firmware board, meaning that automated commands are happening in the background. When a new head is installed, procedures must be taken to reset the voltage to a starting point. Over the course of its life, the voltage will continue to increase until it has reached its limit, after which the head will only degrade as the piezo becomes weaker.
Consumable Parts
Dampers act as a secondary reservoir, as well as a filter. O-rings are gaskets that help seal the plastic tubing with brass connectors. Cap-tops seal the print head when the carriage is in its home position, as well as when the pumps are pulling ink from the print head during a cleaning or ink fill. If any one of these parts fail then the system is broken. (Note: Print heads are also considered to be a consumable part.)
Manual Maintenance
Ensure the cap top, wiper blades, and bottom of the print head plate are clean of built-up ink. Every machine is maintained differently, therefore it is best to follow manufacturer recommendations.
Clean/Flushing
A refillable bulk system will have pigment settling and contamination over time; this will occur with any ink used, whether OEM or third-party. Because of this, it is crucial to schedule cleaning of the main ink tanks and refillable carts every six months. Nazdar's suppliers of bulk systems also suggest periodically replacing machines' refillable carts, particularly float carts.
Static
Static can cause poor ink adhesion to substrates, leading to sub-par ink performance. Specialized devices can measure the static off of a surface; Nazdar Tech Services has access to these devices available when conducting consults on printing issues.
Ink
Find more information on specific inks, visit Nazdar Digital Inks or browse Nazdar Technical Data Sheets. If you or your customer are having ink related issues, please contact Nazdar Tech Services.