Printer Overspray Issues and How to Fix Them for Accurate Prints

Overspray on prints is a common but irritating problem affecting output quality. Alignment is essential when printing photos, designs, and documents. This post will show you how to prevent printer overspray, usually caused by a misaligned platen or misaligned printer. The guide is also packed with tips and tools for leveling your gear efficiently.

BCH Technologies recognizes the value of high-grade prints and has put together a video on resolving the problem, step by step. Let's dive into the process.

What is Printer Overspray?

Overspray occurs when the ink goes past the area you intended to print, resulting in unwanted marks on your output. In the case discussed, the overspray appeared at the edges of the image—first at the bottom (the chin) and then at the top (the forehead), as the orientation of the image was inverted.

Uneven printers/platen are often the root cause of overspray. Many believe overspray acts only as a software fault when, in fact, it's more of a mechanical alignment error. To prevent this from happening, you need to level your equipment so the ink will spread evenly when printing.

Importance of Printer and Platen Alignment

An unlevel printer or platen can cause the ink to be applied unevenly, resulting in overspray. There are two ways the misalignment can happen:

Left to Right: Often connected to erratic floors or printer positioning.

More from front to back: More varieties have been used less so far, mainly for modifying printers where such roles and features are needed.

It guarantees proper ink distribution across the surface, avoiding excess ink in some areas and preventing overspray problems.

Printer and Platen Leveling Tools

For any printer alignment correction, it is imperative to have Genuine tools, which are essential foruine tools. A laser level is one for accurate alignment readings. These tools are readily accessible at hardware shops like Home Depot and are simple enough for novices.

Other tools you might need:

• For fine adjustments, a trim spirit level.
• For your printer or platen (if applicable), adjustable knobs or screws
• A flat surface for the platen and printer during the leveling process.

How to Level Your Printer and Platen

Step 1: Check your printer's leveling

First, see if your printer is level. Draping a laser level over or around the machine lets you determine if it leans in any direction. To reposition the printer:

• Shims under the legs of the printer.
• Taking the printer to a more level surface.
• Leveling the built-in feet (if your printer comes equipped with them).

Step 2: Level the Platen

You also need to level the platen, the surface on which your print media is placed. Uneven platens can also lead to uneven contact between printhead and media, worsening overspray.

Check the alignment of the platen with a spirit level or a laser level:

Horizontal Alignment: Platen is even within the left to right.

Front Back Alignment: Most important for preventing overspray from the top or bottom edges of your prints

Use the built-in knobs or screws to adjust the plate. If your platen is not equipped in such a manner, spacers and wedges will be used to get the alignment right.

Step 3: Test for Consistency

After leveling both the printer and platen, do a test print. Look at the output for overspray. In case of persistent problems, double-check alignment and verify that all adjustments are secure.

Common Alignment Problems and how to fix them

Overspray Continues to Occur After Leveling:

• Confirm that the printer and the platen are leveled in all four directions.
• Validate that the laser level or spirit level is in good working condition.

Printer or Platen Won't Go Level:

• Put the printer on a more stable surface.
• Place anti-slip mats or pads under the printer or platen;

Tools Are Not Available:

• You can still do well with a standard spirit level if you don't have a laser level.
• Where there are temporary issues, check the alignment visually and adjust it slightly.

Why should the Printer and the Platen be correctly aligned?

This prevents excess spray from being sprayed and increases the quality of printing. Proper alignment ensures:

• There are no bleeds on the edges; we can apply ink better.
• Less waste of ink -- so it's comparatively time-saving and cost-saving.
• It can be used for commercial and personal use.

By dedicating some time to optimal setup, you will have a bullet-proof printer you can count on to complete your everyday printing work or for specialized processes like DTF printing.

Watch Our Video Tutorial, Step by Step

To see a visual tutorial on how to correct printer overspray, view our video below for video. It corrects printer overspray and shows how to use them. Discover more helpful content on our YouTube channel, BCH Technologies.