Full Version: Morning Problem #1
From: gt350ed [#41]
1 May 2006
To: Stunt Engraver (DGL) [#40] 1 May 2006
PROBLEM SOLVED!!! As it turned out, a thorough manual cleaning of the printhead through each separate nozzle was called for. My weapon of choice was/is distilled water. I had done a cleaning early on but, apparently, not sufficiently.
Having been doing sublimation for a long time at this point, I must say that the particular banding ("horizontal lines") I was experiencing was considerably different than what I have experienced in the past. So much so, that I was thrown in other directions in search of a solution.
Ultimately, the Stunted Engraver came forward suggesting that I might narrow the focus (pun) if I switched from a 4-color test pattern, to a 6-color pattern in light of the fact that my printer prints 6-color inks.
In doing so, I discovered that the "lines" showed up in all colors, not just Cyan, as had been the case with a 4-color pattern. I'm not sure why this was the case, it just was.
By switching out the dye-sub inks, replacing with Epson inks, I was able to determine that the issue was definitely related to partial clogging of the printhead. This was concluded because the Epson inks "flowed" and printed perfectly. It was the old "viscosity" issue between Epson inks and dye-sub inks.
In any event, it took about 5 separate cleanings of each nozzle, using 1 M/L of distilled water with each cleaning. I do it with a small syringe with a 3" piece of clear micro-tubing which I push over the nozzle. I also utilize a 1" x 8" piece of paper towel put under the printhead to absorb excess water that is not drawn back through the syringe with each cleaning. By the way...with the cartridge carriage undocked, the printer is unplugged during this procedure, among other things, so that the print carriage can be moved left and right freely.
The bottomline is that it worked perfectly and I'm back in business.
One last thing...it's actually been a very long time since I've had ANY dye-sub printer or ink problems. It just comes with the territory. The printer is a great printer and the inks are fine these days, as well. Although I have a bulk system, it has caused too many problems. I've abandoned it in favor of self-filling spongeless carts. Since the conversion, hardware-wise all is well....as long as the printhead is clean.
In addition to my own continuing education, I'm hoping that others "out there" might have benefited from this thread as well. Dye-sub is a great addition to any business involved in awards, decorating and personalized gifts. A lot of money can be made. So much so that cleaning, or even replacing a $300 printer should not slow one down for very long.
Thanks again to ALL.
From: Stunt Engraver (DGL) [#42]
1 May 2006
To: gt350ed [#41] 1 May 2006
Ed,
I love a success story! :-)
The good point you make, is, ink jet dye sub is definitely a mine field, but once the mountain is climbed and the school of hards knocks is in recess, it's a process that can be very lucrative and fun.
At times. (devil)
EDITED: 1 May 2006 by DGL
From: gt350ed [#43]
1 May 2006
To: Stunt Engraver (DGL) [#42] 1 May 2006
From: JHayes55 [#44]
1 May 2006
To: gt350ed [#43] Unread
From: Harvey only (HARVEY-ONLY) [#45]
1 May 2006
To: gt350ed [#41] Unread
I would highly suggest using Fantastic rather then distilled water. There is more then just sub particles that build up. Fantastic will dissolve or soften many of them therefore making the junk wipe off much more easily. Some people use alcohol or ammonia to help with no ill effects. I stick with Fantastic since from experience because it works well and I guarantee no ill effects.
The other thing that would work extremely well is DMSO, but it is dangerous to use without rubber gloves. It will truly dissolve the sub particles, but also many other organic chemicals and will make them absorbable rapidly right through the skin.
From: RALLYGUY (RALLYGUY1) [#46]
1 May 2006
To: ALL
Glad you got it figured out ED.......
Harvey,
My understanding is that DMSO was an ingredient in the original SG forumula...I seem to remember having an MSDS with that on it somewhere.......
From: Mick [#47]
2 May 2006
To: RALLYGUY (RALLYGUY1) [#46] 2 May 2006
Brian
I think maybe in the patent rather than MSDS
From: RALLYGUY (RALLYGUY1) [#48]
2 May 2006
To: Mick [#47] 2 May 2006
Ahhhh, I believe you are right.........I know I have a copy of it somewhere in their information.
I believe I stand corrected.
Thanks Mick,
Brian
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