Can an Epson ET-8550 Be Converted for Sublimation Printing?

Question:
I purchased two Epson ET-8550 printers with the goal of converting them into DTF printers, but both attempts were unsuccessful. One of the printers has never had ink installed. Since it supports wide-format printing (13" x 19"), can I now use that printer for sublimation printing instead?

Answer:

To your question, the Epson ET-8550 can indeed be converted into a sublimation printer-as long as it has never had regular pigment or dye ink installed. Since you mentioned that one of your units is still brand new and unused, this is a very good candidate for sublimation conversion. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Why an Unused Printer Is Crucial

   • Sublimation requires special sublimation ink, and it cannot be mixed with standard Epson ink. If even a small amount of OEM ink remains inside the printhead or ink lines, it can cause color contamination, clogs, or permanent damage.

   • Since your second ET-8550 has never had ink, you're starting with a "clean slate," which makes conversion possible without needing to flush or replace components.

2. Conversion Process

   • Install sublimation ink directly into refillable cartridges or compatible ink bottles designed for the ET-8550.

   • Once the sublimation ink is in, the printer is essentially dedicated to sublimation use. It should never be switched back to standard ink.

   • You will also need sublimation paper and a heat press to complete the transfer process.

3. Limitations to Be Aware Of

   • While the ET-8550 supports large-format media (up to 13" x 19"), Epson does not officially endorse sublimation conversions. This means you are proceeding at your own risk, and warranty coverage may be voided.

   • Some users encounter firmware updates that cause ink recognition or chip-reading issues. Be cautious when updating the firmware after converting.

4. Why DTF and Sublimation Are Different

   • DTF printing involves special film, adhesive powder, and pigment-based inks designed to print directly onto films.

   • Sublimation, on the other hand, uses heat to infuse dye into polyester-coated substrates like shirts, mugs, or metal plates. Attempting DTF with an ET-8550 can be very difficult, but sublimation is much more straightforward-provided the printer is unused.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Because of high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take several weeks before we can process your printer for drop-off. Our services cover either full printer repairs or specific part replacements, with clear instructions included. That said, our rates aren't the lowest, so we strongly recommend exploring self-help options through online resources. A great place to start is our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search bar next to "About" to quickly find videos on conversions, sublimation, or troubleshooting. YouTube's algorithm may also recommend related videos from other creators that can provide additional guidance.

Thank you again for reaching out with this question. Your support and engagement mean a lot to us, and we hope this helps you move forward successfully with sublimation printing.