Solving Ink Flow Problems with Prestige DTF Printer A3+R: Expert Tips

Question:

Thank you for this. I tested the motherboard as shown in your video, and the parts seem to be working fine. I own the Prestige DTF Printer A3+R and replaced the Epson print head, which worked perfectly for one day. However, the next day, I’m not getting any prints or ink. I checked the FFC cable, and there’s no damage. I’ve done head cleans, nozzle checks, filled the dampers, and ensured the ink bottles are 3/4 full. The mechanical parts move as usual when I print, but no ink comes out. What else should I check for?

Answer:

From what you’ve described, it’s good news that your motherboard and FFC cable seem to work correctly. If the printhead works on day 1 then fails after that, it's likely the capping station. In addition, the capping station seals the nozzles and draws ink to keep printhead health in good condition during cleaning cycles. If it’s clogged or not sealing right, it could keep ink from flowing. Here’s how to check it:

Inspect the Capping Station:

For safety, turn off your printer, unplug it and wait a minute. Manually move the printhead to the side to access the capping station by opening the printer cover. Check the rubber seals where your printhead sits for dried ink, debris or blocks. If there is too much ink build-up, this could hold back the nozzles and cause ink flow issues.

Inspect the Sealing of the Capping Station:

With the printhead removed, connect a syringe to the waste ink tube on the capping station. Smoothly draw air through the tube. If you encounter a lot of resistance, or if you don't smell any ink, there's a very real chance that your capping station is clogged and not sucking ink correctly.

Clean or Replace the Capping Station:

If you find a clog, take a lint-free cloth and some isopropyl alcohol to thoroughly clean the capping station. If you still have no flow, you may have to change the capping station as an option. After cleaning, run a printhead cleaning cycle through the printer’s menu to see if the station can pull ink effectively.

For more detailed guidance, I recommend watching this video tutorial on inspecting and maintaining the capping station: How to Check the Capping Station (https://youtu.be/RVtQLe2wTsk).

Fixing printer problems such as these usually needs hands-on troubleshooting. Sorry, but we cannot facilitate remote repair assistance. We do offer our in house repair service as well to our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) however due to high demand all repairs are scheduled on a first come first served basis and there may be a wait.

The self-help tools are good as well, including our Youtube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). If you are on the channel homepage, use the search field to look for any videos relevant to your model or the issue you are facing.