DTF (Direct-to-Film) nozzle checks can miss portions or lines for several reasons, typically related to issues with the print head or ink flow.
-
Clogged or Partially Blocked Nozzles
If the print head nozzles are clogged or partially blocked, the ink flow to specific parts of the nozzles may be disrupted, resulting in missing portions during a nozzle check. A print head that is worn/damaged, or clogged may struggle to eject ink properly, leading to incomplete nozzle checks. This can occur due to dried ink or debris that blocks the nozzle openings. -
Drying or Deterioration of Ink
If ink is left in the print head for too long or not properly maintained, it can dry up, causing blockages or uneven ink distribution. This can lead to missing lines or portions in the nozzle check.
The maintenance station, which includes the wiper and capping system, plays a key role in keeping the print head clean and free of dried ink. If the maintenance station is not functioning correctly, such as having dirty or worn pads, it may not properly clean the print head after each print job, leading to missing portions in the nozzle check.
If you’re experiencing issues with missing portions or lines during the nozzle check, or noticing signs of print head breakage, follow the steps below:
-
Launch the PrintExp / Hosonsoft program to begin.
Run a regular cleaning on both heads (Select 2 Head All) if it’s the start of your production day. This will help clear out the wet-capping liquid from your ink stack pad, which should be part of your daily wet-capping routine.
After completing the first cleaning on both heads (Select 2 Head All) and ensure that the maintenance station pads are empty. Once confirmed, proceed with the following steps:
-
Go to the Settings tab in the PrintExp / Hosonsoft program.
Locate the Load Ink section to proceed with the next steps.
-
Depending on which print head you are having breakage on, you will select the settings below:
- If both print heads show breakage, you will select 2 head-ALL
- If your color print head is having issues, select Head 1
- If your white print head is having issues, select Head 2
-
Allow the ink load to run until it reaches 60. Once the ink load reaches 60, stop the ink load in Hosonsoft and move the print head to the left using the arrows. Ensure that the maintenance pads are filled with ink.
If the pads are properly filled with ink after the ink load, proceed by performing a strong cleaning on all the heads where the ink load was applied, then run a nozzle check to assess the results. If you notice improvement but the nozzle check still shows issues, repeat the process one more time and check the results again.
If the pads are not evenly or properly filled, you may need to attempt to unclog the print head nozzles.
-
Follow the steps below to recover missing nozzles if a simple ink load does not resolve the issue: Start the Wet Capping Process
Begin the wet capping process by filling the maintenance pads with a moisturizing liquid or, for a stronger clean, a cleaning solution. (If using the cleaning solution, make sure to run the wet capping for 20 minutes at a time to avoid damaging the print head). During this process, the print head will be sealed against the capping pads, allowing the wet-capping liquid to break down any dried ink or obstructions.
-
Choose the wet capping liquid and set a timer to 20 minutes.
After the timer is done, please proceed to follow the steps to the ink loading process again and check if the pads are properly filled with ink after the ink load. If so, proceed by performing a strong cleaning on all the heads where the ink load was applied, then run a nozzle check to assess the results.\
If the results do not improve after the ink loading or 20-minute wetcap, perform an overnight wetcap and repeat the steps over 48 hours.
Need additional help?
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for further assistance via email at service@ricoma.com or by visiting our support page at www.ricoma.com/US/support.