Ink smudged all over the print?
- Vian
- Aug 10, 2023
- 1 min read
Updated: Jan 28
Many factors can cause this issue. Based on our experience, here’s what we’ve learned:
1. Printing on the wrong side of the Film
With DTF PET film (especially double-sided frosted), it can be tricky to tell which side to print on, as both sides look similar.
Fix:
Scratch a small area on each side of the film; the side with residue is the correct printing side.
If you accidentally print on the wrong side, gently wipe off the print, flip the film, and print again, there’s no need to discard it.
Printhead Touching the Film
Sometimes the printhead can touch the film during printing. This can happen if the surface underneath is uneven, dirty, or has any obstruction.
Fix:
Make sure the film lies flat and the area beneath it is clean to prevent contact.
3. Short ink curing time: If the ink doesn’t cure properly, prints may appear blurry or distorted.
Fix: Allow enough drying time before powdering and adjust the printer’s pre-heat plate temperature for proper curing.
4. High ink saturation: Using too much colour ink can cause problems.
Fix: Adjust the balance between colour and white ink to find the optimal ratio.
5. Dried ink: Dried ink on the printhead, capping station, flushing box, or wiper blade can cause clogs and print problems.
Fix: Keep the printhead and parts well-maintained.
To clean the capping station, flushing box, and the wiper blade, please refer to our blog link below;
We provide a selection of capping stations, dampers, and wiper blades tailored for Epson printheads utilized in DTF printing. For more details, please visit the link below:
