Exploring Sublimation Ink and Ecotank Printer Compatibility

Question: I often read online that Ecotanks clog with sublimation ink because it's thicker than the standard Ecotank ink. However, considering the variety of inks used in Ecotanks, including pigment and dye inks, I'm skeptical about the claim that sublimation ink (which is dye-based) is significantly thicker. The Safety Data Sheets (SDS) indicate that both inks have a viscosity of less than 5 cP. So, I wonder, is the clogging issue with sublimation ink more related to its consistent high-quality printing as opposed to the ink's physical properties? Is sublimation ink indeed thicker, and does this cause clogs in Ecotanks?

Kevin: In the sublimation printing industry, a concept known as "colorant/pigment overloading" in sublimation ink is quite prevalent. This term colorant is more accurate than "pigment overloading," as we are dealing primarily with dye-based inks. Standard dye inks are formulated for straightforward applications on smooth, white backgrounds. In contrast, sublimation inks are designed for a more complex process: transitioning into gas and adhering to a variety of substrates, many of which have uneven surfaces that cause reflection and diffusion. This necessitates a higher concentration of colorants in sublimation inks.

So, while both regular and sublimation inks fall within the same viscosity range and are dye-based, sublimation inks push the boundaries of what a printhead can handle due to their heavy colorant load. As a result, sublimation inks do require more frequent printhead cleaning compared to regular dye inks.

Now, regarding the clogging issue: sublimation inks do tend to clog more often than dye inks, but they're also easier to unclog compared to pigment inks. Frequent usage of the printer plays a significant role in preventing clogs. For example, I regularly use sublimation ink in my Ecotank printer for printing packing slips three times a week, and I've never encountered a clog, even after 20,000 pages. My experience suggests that Ecotank printers can handle sublimation ink well without necessitating daily printing or special maintenance.

However, it's important to note that infrequent usage, like printing only once every two weeks, can lead to clogging in any inkjet printer, regardless of the ink type. I always say "you cannot break a printer by using it. You WILL break a printer by NOT using it." Interestingly, while sublimation ink might clog more frequently than dye ink, it's generally easier to unclog. Most people can resolve clogs in sublimation ink with a few head cleanings, making it seem like the printer isn't clogged at all. In contrast, clogs in pigment inks can often be permanent and more challenging to address once they are noticed.