How to Fix White Ink Issues on the Uninet DTF 1000 (Epson 1390 Model)
- By Kevin Day
- On Nov 06, 2024
- Comment 0
Question: My Uninet DTF 1000 (Epson 1390) prints CMYK fine but struggles with white ink. I flushed the lines and printhead and cleaned the capping station, yet it's starved of white ink. Could it be a capping station issue, or do I need a new printhead? Also, do you carry mainboards or capping stations for this model?
Answer:
Thank you for contacting us. We understand the frustration printer issues bring, and we’re here to provide the most detailed support possible. At BCH Technologies, we genuinely appreciate your engagement and feedback, which helps us continually improve our technical resources.
To address your issue, it’s wise not to rush into ordering a new printhead. Many assume replacing the printhead will fix everything, but it’s often more complex. Here’s what we recommend checking to narrow down the cause of your white ink starvation.
Addressing printer issues can be challenging, especially when hands-on troubleshooting is required. Unfortunately, we can't provide remote troubleshooting or repair support, but we offer an in-person diagnostic and repair service through our local repair facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, service is first-come, first-served so that repairs may take a few weeks. We can repair entire printers or specific components with mail-in or local drop-off options. However, our service fees may be higher than some local shops, so we encourage self-help options like our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies), where you can find numerous troubleshooting videos.
Thank you once again for your trust in BCH Technologies. We’re committed to supporting you and keeping your business running smoothly!
Answer:
Thank you for contacting us. We understand the frustration printer issues bring, and we’re here to provide the most detailed support possible. At BCH Technologies, we genuinely appreciate your engagement and feedback, which helps us continually improve our technical resources.
To address your issue, it’s wise not to rush into ordering a new printhead. Many assume replacing the printhead will fix everything, but it’s often more complex. Here’s what we recommend checking to narrow down the cause of your white ink starvation.
Step 1: Check the White Ink Line and Ink Mixing System
White ink requires a more extensive tubing line, preferably C3 (you can search our website, where all tubes are clearly marked as C2, C3 size tube), to ensure smooth ink flow. If your printer’s white ink lines are too small, it could contribute to ink starvation. In addition, if you haven’t already, consider adding a mixing system. White ink can settle and separate more quickly than other colors, so a mixing system is essential for consistent print quality. Also, I suggest always use fresh rolled ink for your printing.Step 2: Evaluate Printhead and Capping Station Connection
With the Epson 1390 setup, ensuring the printhead and capping station are making proper contact is critical. Here’s a test to verify the connection:- Start by parking the printhead naturally on the capping station (by turning the printer on).
- Once parked, use a syringe to slowly draw 2 to 3 ml of air from the waste tube. Ideally, you should feel a slight resistance, which indicates a secure connection between the printhead and the capping station. No resistance likely means a poor seal, possibly indicating that the capping station may be clogged or misaligned.
Step 3: Printhead Compatibility with Your Printer’s Main Board
The Uninet DTF 1000 uses an Epson 1390 base, but its configuration may vary, particularly with the printhead. Many models have a board that converts it to an L805 printhead, although it’s initially compatible with an L1800. If you decide to replace the printhead, you must choose between these two models based on your printer’s configuration.Step 4: Troubleshoot Other Potential Issues
If you’re noticing lines and ink starvation with the white ink, these additional areas may also help:- Dampers and Circulation Pumps: These are clear since you’ve already flushed the white lines and replaced the dampers and the white ink circulation pump. However, keep an eye on ink settling over time.
- Capping Station Condition: Since it’s getting messier than your previous one, the capping station could be due for replacement. We carry compatible capping stations for the Epson 1390 model, which might alleviate some of these issues.
- Invest in a Priming Pad: You have to take the outside cover to use this but the cover is just there for the show. There is a video on this page, which shows you how to use it to get white ink ready: https://bchtechnologies.com/products/priming-unclogging-tool-for-l1800-1390-l805-1430-printers-with-spaces-on-the-left-of-vaccum-platform
Addressing printer issues can be challenging, especially when hands-on troubleshooting is required. Unfortunately, we can't provide remote troubleshooting or repair support, but we offer an in-person diagnostic and repair service through our local repair facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, service is first-come, first-served so that repairs may take a few weeks. We can repair entire printers or specific components with mail-in or local drop-off options. However, our service fees may be higher than some local shops, so we encourage self-help options like our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies), where you can find numerous troubleshooting videos.
Thank you once again for your trust in BCH Technologies. We’re committed to supporting you and keeping your business running smoothly!