Create a Spongeless Refillable HP Cartridge: Prevent Ink Mixing and CISS Compatibility Explained

Question:

How do I make a spongeless refillable HP cartridge (models 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, and 68), and won’t the colors mix inside if it’s turned upside down by accident? Is it compatible with CISS? Can you explain the principles behind CISS?

Answer:

Now, let's dive into your question! When creating a spongeless refillable HP cartridge for models like the 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, and 68, one of the key concerns is preventing the colors from mixing, especially if the cartridge is turned upside down. The key to preventing this issue is ensuring that the chambers inside the cartridge are sealed properly. In spongeless designs, the individual ink chambers rely on airtight seals to keep the colors from mixing. A common solution is to glue the middle "T" that separates these chambers. If this seal is not properly secured, the colors can indeed mix if the cartridge is turned upside down or moved around too much.

As for the Continuous Ink Supply System (CISS), it is compatible with these types of refillable cartridges, as long as the system is properly designed to handle the specific cartridge model and the airtight chambers. CISS works by using external ink tanks that feed ink into the cartridges through tubes. The key principle behind CISS is that it maintains a constant flow of ink to the cartridge, eliminating the need for frequent refills and ensuring a steady ink supply.

However, when adapting a spongeless refillable cartridge for CISS, you need to ensure that the ink flow is consistent and that the chambers are not compromised. Proper sealing and the correct tubing are crucial to avoid any ink leakage or mixing issues.

We understand that working with cartridges, especially in a CISS setup, can be tricky, and while we cannot provide remote troubleshooting, we do offer in-person evaluations and repairs at our local diagnostic facility. If you're looking for step-by-step guidance, our YouTube channel is a great resource. You can search for specific videos by using the search icon on our channel’s homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies).