Converting a standard inkjet printer to sublimation printing involves replacing the regular ink with specialized sublimation ink and ensuring the printer's ink delivery system is properly prepared for this new ink type.
The primary step in converting a printer for sublimation is to introduce sublimation ink into the printer's ink delivery system. This often requires preparing the ink cartridges or tanks to ensure they are filled correctly and the ink lines are primed.
Preparing the Ink System for Sublimation Ink
Properly filling and preparing the ink system is crucial to prevent mixing old ink residue with the new sublimation ink and to ensure a smooth flow for printing. Based on common procedures for tank-based or refillable cartridge systems, here are the steps involved:
- Initial Ink Addition: Add about 50mL of sublimation ink into the relevant ink cartridge or tank.
- Flush & Discard: Using a priming syringe or similar tool, suck out the resulting ink/fluid mixture from the cartridge or tank. This mixture, which contains residual standard ink or flushing fluid mixed with the initial sublimation ink, should be carefully discarded.
- Full Fill: After flushing the initial mix, fill the cartridge or tank completely to its full capacity using only sublimation ink.
- Prime Lines: Perform the printer's initial fill or ink charging procedure. This is a function built into most printers that pulls ink from the cartridges or tanks through the ink lines and into the print head, preparing the system for printing. This step is essential to fill the lines completely with the new sublimation ink.
Note: This flushing and filling process ensures that the print head receives a pure supply of sublimation ink.
Why Printer Choice Matters
While the ink is the key difference, not all printers are suitable for conversion. Printers with piezoelectric print heads (commonly found in Epson models) are generally preferred for sublimation conversion as they handle the characteristics of sublimation inks well. Thermal print head printers (like many HP or Canon models) are typically not recommended as the heat can damage sublimation ink pigments.
Choosing a printer model known to be compatible with sublimation conversion, often one designed for refillable tanks or easily refillable cartridges, simplifies the process.
By carefully following the steps for preparing the ink system and using a suitable printer model, you can effectively convert an inkjet printer for sublimation printing.
