Just like any mechanical device, such as a car, bicycle, or computerised machining centre, a Roland UV printer requires regular maintenance to ensure peak performance. Implementing a routine UV printer maintenance program is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and producing high-quality output. Moreover, it minimises the risk of unexpected breakdowns that can negatively impact your shop's productivity.
Dust and debris can wreak havoc with the inner workings of a Roland UV flatbed printer, leading to clogged parts that can affect overall print quality, so a clean working environment is essential. Keep the area around your printers free from waste and implement a daily cleaning schedule to make sure the production area stays tidy. Aside from the benefits to your Roland printer, maintaining a clutter free workspace also helps with productivity too.
It's important to make sure you have adequate ventilation in your print shop to avoid a build-up of dust in the air. Additionally, this will benefit in maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels as UV printers are also fairly sensitive to these types of environmental conditions.
Clogging can become a persistent and major issue if print heads are regularly left overnight without cleaning. This can lead to lengthier cleaning processes down the line and a greater risk of damage to the heads. If printheads do clog or foul it can cause uneven ink dispersal and deflection which will result in splatters on your print material and poor-quality print runs.
UV print heads are also expensive bits of kit to replace so it’s vital you manually clean them at regular intervals and particularly before a longer shutdown. However, it’s important not to over-clean, as this can cause unnecessary wear. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning schedule and use only Roland-approved cleaning solutions. Roland printers also feature an automatic cleaning system that can be used in addition to manual cleaning to handle daily maintenance. Just remember, even when you turn the printer off, leave the primary power source on so the automatic system can run.
Ensure your wipers remain in good condition by checking them regularly and replacing them as necessary. Wipers should be inspected for ink buildup, which can cause streaks or smears on prints if not addressed. Different Roland systems have different requirements: for example, some systems require the wiper fluid to be replenished when it gets dirty, while others require the blade and felt to be replaced. Always use genuine Roland parts when replacing wipers to maintain printer performance and avoid voiding warranties.
Just like print heads, the UV lamps need to be kept clear of dust and debris to ensure they cure your inks properly. UV inks won’t dry on their own, so if your lamp is obstructed, you can expect poor quality prints that smudge. It’s also important to periodically check the lamp’s output and replace the lamps according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, as UV lamps degrade over time and lose effectiveness, even if they appear to be functioning correctly.
Setting up a regular Roland printer maintenance programme is essential, but it’s equally important to refer to specific manufacturer operating instructions and cleaning guidelines. Different models of Roland printers may have unique maintenance requirements, and following manufacturer-approved processes will help you keep your printers in optimal condition while safeguarding any warranty. Consider keeping a maintenance log to track routine tasks and any issues that arise—this can be invaluable for identifying patterns or recurring problems.
Maintaining your Roland UV printer doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following a regular maintenance schedule and adhering to manufacturer guidelines, you can ensure that your printer remains in peak condition, delivering high-quality results every time. Remember, proactive maintenance not only extends the life of your equipment but also saves you from costly repairs and downtime.
At Signmaster Systems, we're committed to helping you get the most out of your printing equipment. Whether you need advice on maintenance routines, help with troubleshooting, or access to genuine Roland parts, our team of experts is here to support you.
Get in touch with the team at Signmaster Systems today!