Why Your DTF Printer's Capping Station Overflows With Ink - Causes, Missing Spring Issues, and Fixes (Q&A Guide)

Question: Why is my DTF printer's capping station gushing or overflowing with ink, and what is the purpose of the small spring shown in the video? My printer did not come with this spring.

Answer:

Understanding Why Ink Overflows From the Capping Station

When a DTF printer's capping station begins gushing ink or pushing ink backward (often called backflow), the root cause is usually related to suction imbalance or mechanical tilt inside the capping assembly. Here are the main causes:

1. Clogged Pump or Suction Path

If the pump is partially blocked or weakened, it cannot remove ink efficiently during cleaning cycles. Instead of pulling ink down the waste line, pressure builds up and pushes ink upward-resulting in overflow.

2. A Tilted or Uneven Capping Station

(Your issue likely falls here)**
The capping station must be perfectly level so the printhead seals correctly. If it tilts even slightly, the vacuum pressure becomes uneven, causing:

• Insufficient downward suction

• Ink pooling in the cap

• Ink pushing back up into the printhead

In the video you referenced, the small spring is essential because it acts as a counterbalance to keep the capping station level. Without it, one side droops, and ink flow becomes inconsistent.

3. Damaged or Hardened Gasket

A worn or deformed rubber seal prevents proper vacuum, allowing ink to collect in the cup rather than being drawn out.

4. Blocked Waste Ink Tube

If the waste hose is kinked or clogged, the pump cannot push waste ink through, so it backs up into the cap.

So What Does the Small Spring Actually Do?

The spring in the video is part of the support and leveling mechanism for the capping station. Its functions include:

• Maintaining the correct height of the cap relative to the printhead

• Keeping the cap level during cleaning cycles

• Ensuring uniform suction pressure across the printhead

• Preventing the cap from sagging on one side

If your printer did not come with a spring, it means the capping station is missing a stabilizing component that most DTF printers rely on for proper function.
Yes-you definitely need to install one.
A missing spring will almost always lead to suction problems and ink flooding.

What You Should Do Next

Here are the recommended steps:

1. Install the missing spring

This is the most likely fix for your overflow issue.

2. Inspect the capping station for tilt

Press gently on each corner. If one side compresses more easily, you have uneven support.

3. Check the waste line

Make sure the hose is not blocked or kinked.

4. Ensure the pump is functioning

A weak pump fails to pull ink, causing pooling or backflow.

5. Make sure the gasket is soft and sealing correctly

If hardened or cracked, replace it.

Addressing printer problems can be tricky due to how hands-on and mechanical these systems are. Because of this, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, repair suggestions, or technical intervention. We do offer in-person diagnostic and repair services at our local facility, which you can find here: BCH Technologies Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, repairs are handled on a first-come, first-served basis, so there may be a wait time before drop-off. Our service can address either full-printer repairs or specific component repairs with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, our repair rates may not be the most economical option, so we strongly encourage self-help whenever possible. You can start by searching on YouTube-or visiting our YouTube channel homepage: BCH Technologies on YouTube (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to "About" on our channel to look up specific issues. With nine years of videos, it's difficult to remember every topic we've covered, and YouTube's own recommendations may also lead you to other useful resources.

Thank you again for your question and for being part of our community. Your engagement truly helps us continue creating content and improving our support materials for DTF users everywhere.