Each dtg manufacturer should be able to provide you with a written list of what items need to be cleaned / maintained on a regular basis. Usually this information can be found in an Owner’s Manual or on a user forum. I recommend you create a schedule / signature log that requires the operator to sign off that the scheduled maintenance was done. This log should have the daily, weekly and monthly maintenance procedures listed out and a place where someone can sign/date showing it was done. This will help keep your business on track with keeping your machine in top printing shape. In some cases, you will even find other users have created their own maintenance procedures that go beyond what the manufacturer recommends. Here is an example of a post like this - http://www.t-shirtforums.com/direct-garment-dtg-inkjet-printing/t32835.html.
Some dtg manufacturers have started incorporating some features into the dtg printers that help with the maintenance procedures. For example, some dtg printers now have buttons on the side of the printer that allow you to run a cleaning cycle with the push of one button or where you can set it to run an automatic cleaning cycle every so many of hours / days. Other printers have added features like an ink agitator to help prevent the ink from settling.
White Ink Agitator from DTG Digital
Just make sure that you understand any cost associated with running these auto features (i.e. ink used during an auto cleaning cycle) and incorporate this into your pricing structure.
Common Maintenance Procedures
Below are some of the common maintenance procedures that are typically done to most dtg printers. It is important that all dtg owners follow the instructions and recommendations of their dtg manufacturer as each printer might have some unique differences.
Maintenance To Do List:
- Clean the maintenance station and wiper blade with cleaning solution.
- Use a cleaning swab to wipe around the nozzle plate under the print head. Do not wipe over the nozzles of the print head.
- Clean both sides of the encoder strip with a lint-free pad
- Make sure that any items (i.e. rails,…) that need to be lubricated are done so on a regular basis.
- Check to make sure that the waste bottle is not full.
- Wipe up any ink splatter on the inside of the printer.
Here is a link to post that goes over some of the things a dtg owner should think about when it comes to maintenance - http://www.t-shirtforums.com/direct-garment-dtg-inkjet-printing/t41796.html.
Advanced Maintenance Procedures
Throughout the internet, you will find information about how some dtg owners have been able to do some unique cleaning methods (i.e. soaking a print head, putting dampers through an ultra sonic cleaning,…) to get their machine working properly. I strongly encourage you speak with your dtg manufacturer first to make sure that you don’t cause additional harm to your dtg printer before trying any advanced maintenance procedures. Here is a link to a post that talks about some of these procedures - http://www.t-shirtforums.com/direct-garment-dtg-inkjet-printing/t25918.html.