Could a heated cleaning solution (30-40°C) lead to a severe clog? If so, why?

I used two new XP600 printheads for a few weeks and performed routine cleaning. Following a technician friend's advice, I heated the cleaning solution to help break down ink residue.

At first, the ink flowed well, but over time, the flow weakened especially in one printhead until it became almost completely blocked. When I disassembled the heavily clogged printhead, I found the black membrane intact with no visible damage to any components, as shown in the attached photo/video. This led me to suspect that heat was the issue.

The heated cleaning liquid caused the DTF ink to cure into a rubber-like state. While this initially improved flow, it ultimately led to severe blockages. My second printhead still has three clogged nozzles that soaking and flushing couldn't clear.

Key takeaway: Do not heat the cleaning liquid, as DTF ink cures with heat and may cause irreversible clogging.

Other reasons not to heat cleaning solution

1. Nozzle Damage; Sudden temperature changes can expand or deform delicate nozzle components.

2. Chemical Reactions; Some cleaning solutions may become less effective or even react unpredictably when heated.

Using room-temperature cleaning solution is the safest method to prevent further damage and effectively clear blockages.

Recommended Practices for Cleaning DTF Ink from Epson Printheads

• Always select cleaning solutions specifically designed for your printer's printhead and ink type for optimal performance and safety.

• Soak Method

Place the printhead so that only the nozzle plate is in contact with a small amount of cleaning solution for several hours or overnight. This allows the solution to break down clogs without the risks of using heat.

After soaking, manually flush each nozzle with distilled water to remove any residue. Ensure the printhead is completely air-dried before reinstalling.

• Regular Maintenance Schedule

Ideally, clean your printhead after every print job or immediately when you notice poor print quality and in the end of the your printing job.

Key Takeaways

Use safe, effective methods and avoid heating cleaning solutions. Follow daily routines to manage your printhead to achieve vibrant, high-quality DTF prints. Proactive care ensures the best results.