Introduction
35
Spot Color Inks
Spot color inks may be sedimented (components settling to the bottom of the liquid) due to
ink characteristics. Sedimentation triggers tint unevenness in printing results or clogged
nozzles.
Before using spot color inks, take note of the following cautions.
❏
The printer provides a function (auto ink circulation) that automatically circulates inks in
the print head or tube at periodic intervals to prevent inks from being sedimented.
❏
When using this function, we recommend that you do not turn the printer off. If the
power is turned off, auto ink circulation is not performed at the appropriate times.
This causes irresolvable sedimentation, which results in damage. When not using
the printer for a long period of time, see “Long-Term Storage (Pre-Storage
Maintenance)” on page 189.
❏
To cancel auto ink circulation, press the
W
button while Circulating ink... is being
displayed on the control panel screen. However, it cannot be canceled while ink
circulation is required. If auto ink circulation is canceled to make prints using spot
color inks, tint unevenness may occur in printing results. To avoid cancellation of the
auto ink circulation process, we recommend that you perform Ink Circulation
before starting printing. See “The Maintenance Menu” on page 211.
❏
Spot color ink cartridges must be removed and thoroughly shaken once every 24 hours.
See “Shaking cartridges” on page 163.
❏
Spot color ink cartridges must be stored flat (laid on their sides). If the cartridges are
stored vertically, even shaking the cartridges before use may fail to dissolve the
materials that have sedimented in the ink during storage.
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When tint unevenness is detected in printing results, perform Ink Refresh from the
menu on the control panel. See “Ink Refresh” on page 188.
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Note the following when using ink layering.
❏
Use media at least 2% longer than specified in document size settings.
❏
Note that the auto take-up reel unit may not function as expected, causing a decline
in print quality.
❏
Some media do not support ink layering. For details, refer to the documentation
supplied with the media or contact the manufacturer.