Where Should a Peristaltic Pump Be Installed in a DTF/DTG Printer: Bottle to Head or Head to Bottle?

Question:
What is the correct placement of a peristaltic pump in a DTF/DTG printer system? Should it be installed from the ink bottle to the printhead, or from the printhead back to the bottle?

Answer:

A peristaltic pump is designed so that ink never touches the internal moving parts of the pump—it is squeezed through flexible tubing. Because of this design, placement is not overly restrictive, but there are best practices to consider.

Most users install the pump directly out of the bottle rather than after the printhead. Here’s why:

• A peristaltic pump is inherently weaker than a diaphragm pump. Installing it near the ink bottle helps the pump “pull” ink into the system more efficiently, rather than struggling with long lines that already pass through the head.

• By pulling ink from the bottle, the pump provides a steady flow while minimizing unnecessary strain.

That said, if you are using an inline filter, such as a DTF Ink Filter with C3 Connections (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/dtf-ink-filter-with-c3-connections-for-high-viscosity-white-and-color-inks?_pos=2&_sid=e78bd00f0&_ss=r), it is generally recommended to place the filter after the pump. The reasons are:

1. Easier suction – The pump can draw ink more easily without having to pull through the filter first.

2. Protection from pump debris – If small fragments from the pump tubing ever break loose, the filter will catch them before they reach the printhead, preventing blockages and damage.

This setup mirrors the same principle commonly applied with diaphragm pumps, where filtration is positioned downstream to protect the printhead.

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 (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) through our local diagnostic facility. Because of high demand, repairs are handled on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before we can take in your printer. We provide both complete printer repairs and part-specific fixes, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, since our rates may not be the lowest, we also encourage customers to try self-help methods through online resources. A great place to start is our YouTube channel’s homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to “About” on the right-hand side to look up specific topics. With over nine years of content, it’s difficult to remember every video offhand. Still, YouTube’s search function will quickly guide you to the right resources, including related videos from other creators.

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