Why Only One Ink Color Works on My XP-15000 DTF Printer Conversion — Troubleshooting Capping Station & Ink Flow Issues

Question: I’ve converted my Epson XP-15000 to DTF and am getting close to making it work, but right now, only one ink color is functioning. What could be wrong, and how do I fix it?

Answer:

Understanding the Issue

When only one ink works after converting your Epson XP-15000 for DTF (Direct to Film) printing, it's likely due to insufficient ink flow through the printhead for the other colors. This usually comes down to issues with the capping station, air bubbles, or clogged ink channels. DTF ink is thicker than standard dye or pigment ink, so extra care is needed during priming.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Step 1: Park the Printhead Properly

Turn the printer on and let the printhead automatically return to the capping station. This ensures it's correctly seated and seals against the capping pad. It's important not to force this process manually when the power is off, as the head may not seal properly.

Step 2: Use a Syringe to Prime the System

Attach a syringe and tubing to the printer’s waste ink line from the capping station. This will let you gently draw ink or air through the printhead:

1. Draw 1.5 ml of air slowly.

   • At this point, you should feel a slight resistance. If you only draw air, either:

     • The printhead is not adequately sealed against the capping station, or

     • There's an air leak in the system.

2. Observe for total resistance.

   • If you feel complete resistance and can’t pull anything, the capping station might be clogged. This will prevent ink from moving and needs to be cleaned or replaced.

3. Look and listen for feedback.

   • You might hear a "crinkle" sound from the membrane in the damper. That’s a sign the nozzles are opening and ink is starting to move.

4. Draw up to 2 ml and hold.

   • Continue drawing gently until you hit the 2 ml mark, ensuring the black plunger on the syringe passes the mark. Hold this suction for 10 seconds to prime the printhead.

Final Steps

After priming:

• Run the printer's built-in cleaning cycle.

• Avoid multiple back-to-back cleanings—this can overheat the head or flood the waste pad.

• Do not thoroughly clean within the first 12 hours after priming to allow the system to settle.

This method encourages ink flow for all channels and ensures that your printhead is correctly drawing ink from all tanks, not just the one currently printing.

Important Reminder:

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. It may take a few weeks to get your printer to drop it off. Our services are structured to repair the 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 reaching out and for your continued support. Your questions help us improve and share better solutions with the community. This lets you get your XP-15000 back on track for DTF printing!