Troubleshooting Common Issues with Commercial DTG Printing
Commercial direct-to-garment (DTG) printing offers businesses numerous advantages, such as on-demand printing, customization, and vibrant colors. However, as with any printing process, certain issues may arise that can hinder productivity and quality. This article aims to guide you in troubleshooting common problems encountered in commercial DTG printing.
Print Quality Issues
Blurry Prints: Inspect the garment’s surface for wrinkles or unevenness. Ensure the print head is aligned correctly and the substrate is adequately tensioned.
Streaked or Uneven Prints: Check the ink levels and replace empty cartridges. Clean the print head and perform nozzle checks to resolve any clogging. Verify that the print settings match the garment material and ink type.
Faded or Weak Colors: Examine the ink and ensure it is fresh and stored at the appropriate temperature. Calibrate the printer and adjust the ink flow settings to increase color saturation.
Garment Issues
Ink Bleeding: Test the garment for moisture content by using a moisture meter. If the garment is too damp, ink will spread and bleed. Allow the garment to dry thoroughly before printing.
Fabric Shrinking or Stretching: Select garments that are pre-shrunk or have a low shrinkage rate. Adjust the print settings accordingly to minimize distortion and ensure proper fit after laundering.
Print Pilling or Cracking: Use high-quality inks specifically designed for DTG printing. Optimize print parameters to avoid excessive ink thickness, which can cause pilling or cracking.
Equipment Issues
Printer Malfunctions: Perform a self-test on the printer to diagnose any internal issues. Check for loose cables or connections that may cause communication errors. Contact the manufacturer for technical support if necessary.
Clogged Print Heads: Clean the print heads manually or through the printer’s automatic cleaning cycle. Use the appropriate cleaning solutions and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent nozzle blockages.
Inkjet Nozzle Misalignment: Perform a nozzle alignment test and adjust the print head alignment settings accordingly. Misaligned nozzles can result in streaks, banding, or missing details.
Other Considerations
Curing Errors: Ensure that the printed garments are properly cured to fix the ink permanently. Use a heat press with accurate temperature and time settings. Overcuring can damage the fabric, while undercuring can compromise print durability.
Environmental Factors: Control the printing environment to minimize dust and moisture, which can affect ink adhesion and print quality. Use an air purifier or humidifier as needed.
By addressing these common issues effectively, you can optimize your commercial DTG printing operation, ensuring consistent high-quality prints and satisfied customers.
