To fill a fountain pen with an ink cartridge, insert the smaller, open end of the cartridge firmly into the pen's section until you feel it pierce, releasing ink.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the process:
- Identify the Pen Section: The pen section is the part of the fountain pen you grip when writing. It's usually located near the nib.
- Identify the Cartridge Orientation: Ink cartridges are typically sealed and have a smaller, open end designed to be inserted into the pen. This end is sometimes covered with a thin seal that will be pierced upon insertion.
- Insert the Cartridge: Hold the pen section firmly and carefully insert the smaller, open end of the ink cartridge into the opening in the section. Apply gentle but firm pressure.
- Pierce the Cartridge: You should feel the cartridge pierce as you push it in. This action breaks the seal and allows ink to flow. You may hear a small click or popping sound.
- Initiate Ink Flow: Once the cartridge is pierced, ink will begin to flow from the cartridge, through the pen's feed (the component that delivers ink to the nib), and finally to the nib by capillary action.
- Prime the Pen (Optional): To speed up the process, you can gently squeeze the ink cartridge a few times to encourage the ink to saturate the feed. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, as this can cause ink to leak. Alternatively, gently flicking the pen nib-down can help prime the feed.
- Wait: Allow a few moments for the ink to fully saturate the feed. You can test the ink flow by gently touching the nib to paper. If the ink doesn't flow immediately, wait a bit longer or gently squeeze the cartridge again.
Troubleshooting:
- No ink flow: If ink doesn't flow after a reasonable amount of time, ensure the cartridge is properly pierced. You might need to push it in a little further.
- Leaking: If the pen is leaking excessively, the cartridge might not be properly seated, or it could be cracked. Remove the cartridge and inspect it for damage.
By following these steps, you can successfully fill your fountain pen with an ink cartridge and enjoy a smooth writing experience.
