Which Type of Pump Works Best with White Ink CISS Systems for DTF/DTG Printers?

Question
I've been following your YouTube videos and recently purchased a Continuous Ink Supply System (CISS) for my printer. However, the pump has never worked properly for white ink circulation. I just ordered a new pump from your website, but I'd like to know if there's a 24V pump available that works better with my system.

Answer:

We carry 12V and 24V peristaltic pumps and a 24V diaphragm pump, all of which are commonly used in DTF/DTG white ink management systems.

Options Available:

• 12V Peristaltic Pump (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/peristaltic-pump-for-dtf-dtg-printers-white-ink-management-system)

• 24V Peristaltic Pump (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/24v-peristaltic-pump-for-dtf-dtg-printers-white-ink-management-system)

• 24V Diaphragm Pump (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/micro-diaphragm-pump-for-dtf-dtg-printers-white-ink-management-system-24v-3w-100-200-ml-min)

Pump Comparison and Recommendation:

Diaphragm Pump (24V):
This is the strongest option among the three. It provides higher pressure and performs better with high-viscosity white inks, which tend to settle and clog easily. However, due to its strong suction power, you should be cautious about using it while the printer is actively printing. The pressure differential might interfere with your print flow. For best performance, pair this pump with a secondary ink tank (you can search “secondary tank” or “printhead management assembly” on bchtechnologies.com) to regulate the pressure. Many printer brands use diaphragm pumps in a direct setup, but the secondary tank is a safer and more stable option for DIY or converted systems.

Peristaltic Pump (12V and 24V):
These pumps are gentler and have a key advantage: the ink doesn't come in contact with any mechanical moving parts, which helps minimize contamination. They're better for maintaining the purity of the ink path. Their weaker flow rate is the downside, primarily when used with older or thicker ink. For better performance, especially in white ink circulation, the 24V peristaltic is the better choice between the two. However, the 12V model is sufficient and often more cost-effective in many setups.

So yes, if you’re struggling with ink circulation, especially with white ink, upgrading to a 24V pump (peristaltic or diaphragm) is a smart move. Adjust your setup accordingly, especially if you choose the diaphragm model.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we cannot 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). Given the high demand, we operate on a first come, first served basis. So it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer and drop it off. Our services are structured to repair a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

Thanks again for your question and for being part of the BCH Technologies community!