Troubleshooting White Ink Issues in Kornit Vulcan + DTG Printing

Print quality issues with white ink in Kornit Vulcan + Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printers can be a source of frustration for users seeking optimal results. In this technical overview, we address two prevalent problems: the sudden failure of the last row of printheads and the occurrence of overspray, hazing, or misting in specific areas of white prints. We explore potential interconnections between these issues and propose troubleshooting steps to resolve them.

Identifying Issues: Issue 1 - Printhead Failure: The abrupt failure of the last row of printheads, even after replacing them with seemingly healthy ones, suggests a systemic problem. It's crucial to investigate beyond the printheads themselves and explore potential root causes affecting this specific row.

Issue 2 - White Print Overspray: The occurrence of overspray, hazing, or misting in specific areas of white prints indicates a localized problem. To address this, we need to examine factors that may contribute to inconsistent print quality, focusing on the areas where the issue is most apparent.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Printhead Evaluation:
   • Check printhead connections and ensure proper seating.
   • Inspect for any physical damage on the printheads.
   • Consider performing a nozzle check to identify specific problematic nozzles.
2. System Components:
   • Inspect dongle boards and logic boards for potential issues.
   • Verify that the replaced boards are fully functional and compatible with the Kornit Vulcan + model.
3. Print Height and Choke Settings:
   • Conduct tests at different height configurations between printheads and pallets.
   • Experiment with various choke settings, both maximum and minimum, to assess their impact on print quality.
4. Highlight Adjustment:
   • Perform tests with different highlight settings to determine their influence on the occurrence of overspray and hazing.
5. Environmental Factors:
   • Consider environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, as they can affect ink behavior. Optimal conditions ensure consistent print quality.
6. White Ink Circulation:
   • Evaluate the white ink circulation system for potential clogs or irregularities. Ensure proper maintenance and cleaning protocols are followed.

Troubleshooting white ink issues in Kornit Vulcan + DTG printers requires a systematic approach. By evaluating printheads, system components, settings, environmental factors, and ink circulation, users can identify and resolve the root causes of both printhead failures and print quality inconsistencies. Regular maintenance and adherence to recommended procedures are essential for sustained optimal performance.

For further insights and visual aids, you can follow BCH Technologies' YouTube Channel for helpful tutorials and visit their Tech blog. Local assistance is available in Greensboro, North Carolina.