Maintenance Tips For Wide-Format Printers

What Impacts Large-Format Printers Performance?

Workplaces can accumulate a mass of dust particles and debris over time so keeping the printer clean is essential. If dust enters the machine it can potentially build up and create many issues with the printer including impacting the print quality.

With the many different cogs and small areas dust can easily create issues and reduce airflow to these parts causing printer jams and feed problems.

 As essential parts are imperative to keep the large-format printer’s performance, it is advisable to perform a maintenance check daily before major print jobs. Some issues come from hardware or software problems and faulty components.

Keeping The Wide-Format Printer Clean

There are many different types of tools that will help keep the printer dust-free. Many use anti-static brushes which are an effective method of keeping the dust buildup to a minimum. Another tool is a compressed air duster, which is a great tool for removing dust in awkward areas of the printer.

It is a relatively low-cost tool that can be used for other equipment. If you are using a printer with a print bed then daily cleaning of the bed is a must to keep the dust bugs away.

The Correct Print Media

When using a large-format printer the correct size and paperweight need to be checked with the printer’s requirements. Some large format plotter printers are unable to take heavy paperweights and if they are used by mistake it can cause misfiring and potential jamming damage.

Always refer to the manufacturer printer manual for the exact specifications for paper media

Checking Ink and Printheads

A vast range of modern large-format printers have a built-in LCD screen that provides ink-level information. A self-cleaning mechanism performs tasks such as calibrating to ensure nozzles are performing at 100%. The printer will normally perform these tasks regularly, to avoid any blockages from dry ink which impacts print quality.

Printer Position

Not always a factor to consider but where the printer is placed may help improve its longevity performance, especially in a well-ventilated room. A dry cool area will be a suitable position as high temperature and direct sunlight can harm parts in the long run. 

Large-format printers will last longer if located in the right spot with reduced faults. It is best to remove any printers from areas that suffer from excessive heat and a humid atmosphere. 

Professional Help

If the wide-format printer is still faulty, then it is time to arrange for a large-format printer technician, to provide repair services and a diagnosis. Their knowledge and skills will be able to identify issues and efficiently repair the printer ensuring it operates at its highest output.