DTF Printing Woes: A Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide
- By Jee Comendador
- On Jan 05, 2024
- Comment 0
Problem 1: Unclean Colors
If you're struggling with unclean or inconsistent colors in your DTF prints, there are a few potential culprits. First, consider the possibility of clogging or low resolution. Even a single clogged nozzle can lead to these issues. Despite clean nozzle checks, soft clogging—a term coined for ink flow issues—might still be at play.
To address this, print solid colors for each ink (CMYK) on a larger scale (6" x 6" or 12" x 12"). Any irregularities in the print could indicate ink flow problems. Additionally, ensure that your CADlink resolution is set to at least 1440x720, as lower resolutions may contribute to the problem.
Problem 2: Powdering After Print
The "dirty" appearance of prints immediately after powdering could be due to excessively wet ink. Allow the print to dry for 3-5 minutes before applying the powder. This gives the ink time to gel, preventing it from absorbing the powder and compromising the print's quality.
Problem 3: Glossiness
If you're aiming for a matte finish but ending up with a glossy result, Teflon paper might be the culprit. Teflon always imparts a glossy finish. Consider switching to different materials or eliminating Teflon altogether. A change in PET film or experimenting with silicon paper could be potential solutions.
Expert Advice and Tips
- Ink Flow Maintenance: Soft clogging can occur even with clean nozzle checks. To maintain ink flow, print large solid color patches regularly. If irregularities surface, investigate potential ink flow issues.
- Preventing Clogging During Standby: Leaving your printer idle for a few days may lead to clogging. Implement a wet cap and shake the tank and dampers daily to mitigate the risk.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Navigating the DTF printing world can be challenging, but armed with these troubleshooting tips, you're better equipped to address common issues. Don't forget to regularly check for ink flow problems, adjust your resolution settings, and experiment with different materials to achieve the desired finish.
For more in-depth discussions and troubleshooting guides, consider following our tech blog or checking out our YouTube channel here. If you're in Greensboro, North Carolina, drop by locally for hands-on assistance. Happy printing!