Printer problems-ink dried on heads?

[GoonerGary]

Some of those newer Epson printers require installation using the original set up inks. It can take forever for the sublimation ink to come though the ink lines. So you may not have 100% sublimation ink in there.

What temperature and time are you pressing the ornaments?

Those ornaments aren't a great way to practice sublimation. They require a silicone sheet over the top due to the unevenness of the surface...you will get patchy results if trying to press normally. Do you have a mug press?

[pw66]

Have you checked that your heat press is reaching the temperature displayed on the thermostat?
Have you checked that the thermostat is set to celsius not fahrenheit?

[InkExpress]

Some of those newer Epson printers require installation using the original set up inks. It can take forever for the sublimation ink to come though the ink lines. So you may not have 100% sublimation ink in there.

If an ET Epson printer is set up from brand new it does not need the original standard inks installing. Just pour iun the sub ink power up and press and hold the ink drop button to charge it. Exactly the same as if you had standard Epson inks inside the ink tanks.

We have been selling the ET2600 this way for a while. But you are right, if a printer has been previously setup with standard inks its a nightmare to flush out and ensure its working soley on dye sub ink.

Alex

[InkExpress]

Have you checked that your heat press is reaching the temperature displayed on the thermostat?
Have you checked that the thermostat is set to celsius not fahrenheit?

Very good call, had this issue a few times where customers are press in F but think its C. Reaction time for most sub inks is 170c so if this were F it would lead to a very poor reaction and transfer of ink.

[babbles]

Thanks guys for all the replies. I've been away so won't get back on to the printer until tonight. I'm sure my heat press is fine and I'm definitely using C but will triple check that tonight.

[babbles]

I'm using these blanks:[link removed by Admin} and using the times/temps they say. 4minutes, 180 C, medium pressure.

[Mikejohno1]

4 minutes sounds a bit too long to be pressing it at medium pressure and 180 C


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[John G]

What type of heat press are you using?

[babbles]

I'm using a generic chinese heat press, clam shell type. I tried again last night and results are very poor. I can see the image but it is very, very faded. I'm beginning to wonder whether it is the heat press. I was doing some reading on this site and some mentioned a digital non contact laser gun thermometer which I have now ordered.
I'll wait until it arrives and then test the press.

[babbles]

Just a quick update. I tested my heat press and it wasn't reaching the set temperature. After playing around with temps I've finally managed to sub on to ceramic and acrylic-I'm so happy! I'll be saving up for a new heat press (though this one was new and has only be used a max of fifteen-twenty times but is now out of warranty). Thanks everyone for all your help.