Transform Your Epson 1390 Printer into a DTF Powerhouse with BCH Technologies

The Epson 1390 printer, with the right modifications, can be transformed into a versatile and powerful tool for Direct to Film (DTF) printing. This guide walks you through the key steps of modifying and maintaining the printer to ensure optimal performance. We'll cover the essentials of tubing systems, drag chain placement, ink management, and cleaning procedures, leveraging innovative solutions from BCH Technologies. For a more detailed walkthrough, check out the video below.

Understanding the Tubing System Setup

A critical aspect of modifying the Epson 1390 printer for DTF printing is the tubing system. This printer requires a specific setup due to its unique design:

• Drag Chain Placement: Unlike the Epson L1800, the 1390’s longer carriage necessitates placing the drag chain at the back. This positioning not only accommodates the design but also improves overall tubing management.
• Tubing Details: The system uses seven tubes—five C2 tubes and two C3 tubes. The C2 tubes handle color dampers and maintenance, while the C3 tubes manage white ink. This setup ensures efficient ink flow and prevents clogging, making your printer more reliable.

To streamline this process, BCH Technologies offers high-quality tubing solutions tailored for these modifications.

Installing the Drag Chain and Booster Plate

Proper installation of the drag chain and booster plate is essential for stability and functionality:

• Booster Plate: Adding a booster plate to the printer carriage is necessary because the drag chain sits higher than the carriage. This plate provides the needed elevation and support.
• Drag Chain Installation: Secure the drag chain directly onto the rail. Use clips in the middle of the chain to stabilize it and prevent unnecessary movement during operation.

These adjustments are vital to achieving a smooth ink flow and reducing wear and tear on the system.

The Role of Ink Management Assembly (PMA)

Efficient ink management is the cornerstone of any successful DTF printing setup. BCH Technologies’ Print Management Assembly (PMA) organizes and balances the flow of ink and waste:

• White Ink System: Two C3 tubes transport white ink to the dampers and the ink tank. The tank’s built-in mixer ensures consistent ink quality, preventing sedimentation.
• Color and Maintenance Lines: The C2 tubes are responsible for transferring color ink and handling waste management. One tube connects to the maintenance tank, while four go to the color dampers.

By maintaining consistent pressure and flow, the PMA reduces the risk of clogs and ensures vibrant, high-quality prints.

Proper Maintenance for Longevity

Maintenance is critical for extending the lifespan of your modified printer. Here are some best practices:

• Daily Cleaning: After completing your print jobs, clean the printhead and cap station thoroughly. Use a syringe to remove residual ink from the dampers and refill with water or cleaning solution as needed.
• Cap Station Cleaning: Employ a TMS (Tube Management System) to flush the cap station with water after each session. This step is essential to prevent ink buildup that could damage the printhead.
• White Ink Handling: When handling white ink, ensure the stirrer is installed correctly, and the ink tubes do not touch the bottom of the tank to avoid contamination from sediment.

Following these steps ensures consistent performance and minimizes downtime.

Tips for Priming and Printing

Priming the system correctly is key to avoiding printing errors. Here's how to do it effectively:

• Use a 5ml syringe to prime the ink lines. Slowly draw ink to remove air bubbles and ensure a smooth flow.
• For white ink, fill the damper halfway; overfilling can cause ink to spill during operation.
• Perform a cleaning cycle through the printer's software to finalize the priming process.

By carefully priming the system, you set the stage for a flawless printing experience.

Efficient Workflow Practices

To maximize productivity, implement these workflow strategies:

• Regular Cleaning During Printing: Run a cleaning cycle every four designs to prevent drying and maintain the printhead.
• End-of-Day Procedures: After completing all jobs, replace the white dampers with water-filled dampers and flush the lines to remove any residual ink.
• Weekly Maintenance: Even if the printer is unused for several days, follow these steps to ensure it is ready for the next project.

With proper workflow management, your printer remains in excellent condition, even with heavy usage.

Advanced Troubleshooting and Adjustments

BCH Technologies also provides solutions for advanced troubleshooting:

• Cab Station Issues: If you encounter resistance when priming, it may indicate a clogged cap station. Clean it thoroughly or replace it if necessary.
• White Ink Circulation: The white ink mixer ensures continuous movement of ink, reducing sedimentation risks. Check the mixer regularly to verify it’s functioning correctly.

By addressing these issues promptly, you avoid interruptions in your printing schedule.

For more details on the products and tools used in this modification, visit BCH Technologies’ website. All the tools mentioned are readily available to simplify your printer upgrade and maintenance process.