1. Introduction
DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing technology has gained attention as a digital printing method. It uses high-performance printheads for precise, consistent output. Daily use may cause issues with the printheads. This can affect print quality and device performance. Thus, timely diagnosis and resolution of printhead problems is critical.
2. Common Printhead Issues and Solutions for DTF Printers
2.1 Ink Dripping from the Printhead

Cause:
This happens when DTF ink or moisture overflows onto the DTF print head. It can also happen if the wiper blade is dirty or broken and fails to clean effectively.
Solution:
Step 1: Clean the wiper blade.
- Step 2: Use a lint-free cloth soaked in nozzle cleaning liquid to clean the bottom of the DTF print head. Then, perform a print test. Print several test patterns in a row. The suction fan must be on. When it is printing, do not touch the transfer film.
2.2 Mixed ink in the DTF print head

Cause:
The DTF print head may be dirty or contain nozzle cleaning liquid.
Tips: If you use the printer every day, please do not do manual cleaning every day. Just using print head cleaning in the software is enough.
Solution:
Use a lint-free cloth soaked in nozzle cleaning liquid to gently wipe the bottom of the printhead. Then, print more test patterns; the issue should gradually improve.
2.3 White and Color Layers That Don't Line Up



Cause:
This is usually due to insufficient print precision.
Solution:
Clean the encoder disk and strip. Then, print an InkSonic test pattern to check alignment.
2.4 Skewed or misty sprays from the DTF print head

Cause:
Misty edges or splatters on prints are often caused by a partially blocked DTF print head or a gap that is too large between the print head and the film.
Solution:
Step 1: Clean the DTF print head using the software. Then, print a test pattern to check the working status of the printer.
Step 2: Lower the printhead to an optimal distance from the DTF transfer film and print again. If the issue persists, raise the suction platform. This will bring the film closer to the printhead. Then, retest. By the way, if necessary, free to contact the InkSonic support team.
Step 3: Deep clean the printhead (Video Tutorial). Attach an external cleaning kit to the printhead, insert the kit into a bottle of cleaning liquid, and hold the cleaning button for 3–5 seconds to flush the head. Let the cleaning liquid soak for 30 minutes, then restart and repeat the cleaning process. Reinstall the five-color ink reservoir and print test images.
- Step 4: For manual cleaning (Following the below 2.5-section video), connect one end of an ink tube to the top of the printhead. Use a syringe to inject cleaning liquid through the tube, then reinstall the printhead and perform driver cleaning. Conduct a print test afterward.
2.5 Clogged the DTF print head

Cause:
It is a common issue, particularly happening on white ink channels. You can explore our exclusive blog, Why Your Printer Doesn’t Print White Ink, for detailed insights.
Note: Avoid performing more than three consecutive cleanings, as it may damage the printhead.
Solution:
Using the print a nozzle check function of driver software to identify which color channels are clogged.
Extract ink from the corresponding ink damper until they are full. Simultaneously extract about 10ml of waste ink in stages.
Perform driver software to do a nozzle cleaning (ink flush) and test print quality.
Deep clean the printhead using the printer moisturizing device as described above, letting the cleaning liquid soak for 30 minutes before restarting.
Manually clean(following the video ) the printhead by connecting an ink tube to the top, injecting cleaning liquid, and reinstalling it. Perform driver cleaning and test again.
2.6 Ink damper leaks

Cause:
!!! Quickly clear up, as ink leaks can short-circuit the printhead. They may damage it or the motherboard.
Solution:
Reinstall the ink damper securely if it's new or recently replaced.
Replace the ink damper if it hasn’t been changed in three months.
2.7 DTF print head excessive ink spraying

Cause:
This indicates a damaged print head.
Solution:
Replace the print head promptly to ensure uninterrupted production.
2.8 Scratches on the printed pattern

Cause:
This often results from curled transfer film or improper operation during printing.
Solution:
1. Check if the suction fan platform is turned on.
2. Ensure the platform is free of debris, the pressure rollers are clean and free of objects, and the transfer film is secured in the correct position. And if you need help, just free to call the InkSonic team.
3. Use a lint-free cloth to clean the bottom of the printhead(following the video), then perform a print test. If the issue persists, proceed to the next steps.
4. Clean the wiper blade and ink pad of the cleaning unit.
5. Use the driver software to perform a printhead cleaning and then conduct a print test.
2.9 No color in test patterns or printed images.
Cause:
Because the DTF print head has no ink.
Solution:
First, extract ink from the dampers. Ensure to do this in increments until the dampers are full.
Then, approximately 10 ml of waste ink from the waste ink tube will be extracted in stages. After that, print a nozzle check pattern. If colors appear and it is complete, the issue is resolved, and if not, please go to the next steps.
If the nozzle check pattern shows no color, proceed with a series of printhead cleaning steps. Refer to the "2.5 Clogged the DTF print head - Steps 4 and 5" section mentioned earlier.
🐼 Ensure the setting of printing software is right before troubleshooting. And if your printer does not print white ink, please explore this blog: why my printer does not print white ink.
3. Conclusion
The printhead is the key part of DTF printers. Its function affects print quality and efficiency. With accurate diagnosis and appropriate solutions, most printhead problems can be resolved. Proper operation and regular maintenance extend equipment life. They also cut costs. For additional technical support, feel free to contact the InkSonic team. We’re here to assist you!
4. Welcome to the InkSonic Blog!
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