Troubleshooting White Ink Printing: GT381 Printer Woes Demystified

A user of a GT381 printer, equipped with two white ink heads replaced in February 2019, encountered a problem where the white ink heads stopped printing after processing approximately 110 shirts requiring white ink underlay. Despite routine maintenance procedures such as cleaning cycles and replacing ink filters, the heads refuse to print.

Diagnosis and Troubleshooting

Upon encountering the issue, the user engaged in various troubleshooting steps to resolve the problem. These steps included:

1. Cleaning Cycles: The user initiated multiple cleaning cycles to address any potential clogs or blockages within the ink heads.
2. Using Wash Liquid and Foam Swabs: Wash liquid, along with sterile foam swabs, was utilized to clean the print heads thoroughly, ensuring optimal ink flow.
3. Replacement of Ink Filters: The 20um ink filters were replaced to prevent any potential obstruction of ink flow due to particulate matter.
4. Checking Ribbon Cable: A functional ribbon cable was substituted to ensure proper connectivity with the print heads.
5. Firmware Update: The printer's firmware was updated to the latest version to rule out any software-related issues affecting print head functionality.
6. Tubing Inspection and Redoing: The tubing connected to the waste ink module was inspected and redone to ensure proper ink circulation and waste disposal.

Persistent Issue Analysis

Despite the meticulous execution of troubleshooting measures, the white ink heads persistently refuse to print. Notably, the cleaning cycles and maintenance solutions pass through the heads and waste ink module without any evident issues, indicating that the problem may lie elsewhere.

Potential Causes and Further Steps

Given the comprehensive nature of the troubleshooting efforts, it's essential to consider potential underlying causes beyond routine maintenance tasks. The following additional steps may aid in diagnosing and resolving the issue:

1. Head Alignment Check: Verify the alignment of the white ink heads to ensure they are correctly positioned for printing.
2. Nozzle Check: Perform a detailed inspection of the print heads to identify any potential nozzle blockages or inconsistencies.
3. Printhead Calibration: Recalibrate the white ink heads to optimize ink deposition and printing accuracy.
4. Professional Inspection: Consider seeking assistance from a certified technician or contacting the manufacturer's support team for in-depth diagnosis and resolution of the issue.

Recommendations

The inability of the white ink heads to print despite extensive troubleshooting efforts suggests the presence of underlying technical issues requiring further investigation. By systematically addressing potential causes and seeking professional assistance if necessary, users can effectively resolve printing issues and ensure the optimal performance of their GT381 printer.

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