What to do if your DTF printer gets air in the ink lines

This is a common issue many people face with their DTF printers, especially after replacing dampers or printheads. The steps outlined below are specifically for a Binterjet printer. If you're using a different model, consult your owner's manual for the appropriate procedure (if you have one 😜).

Let’s say you’ve just replaced your dampers, powered up the printer, and your print and nozzle check look terrible. What should you do next?

• First determine which lines you replaced the dampers or where you are having issues with your nozzle check.
• Then trace the cap station line back to the caphead
• now disconnect the tubing from the coupler leaving the tubing to the pump.
• take a syringe and put in the tubing.
• very slowly pull back on the plunger pulling some ink and air bubbles out of your tubing.
• replace the capline back into the capstation line.

Another way to accomplish this specifically on the Velox / Binterjet:

• Go to your control panel on your printer
• hit menu / head cleaning
• scroll until Fill cycle
• This will run all four lines, consuming more ink and taking a bit more time. However, it avoids the risk of accidentally spilling ink near your cap station or in your printer.

About the Author

Zach Young is a Technical Support Specialist at DTF Tech Gurus, where he works directly with customers to troubleshoot DTF printing systems, perform equipment diagnostics, and help operators maximize the performance of their production equipment. With a strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience servicing commercial DTF printers, Zach has become a trusted resource for customers looking to reduce downtime and improve print consistency. Zach is also G7 certified, which is an industry-standard color calibration and management methodology.

At DTF Tech Gurus, the mission is simple: provide honest, technically accurate education without the distraction of a sales pitch. Every article is written to share real-world knowledge, practical troubleshooting techniques, and best practices that help print shops make informed decisions, whether they operate an Imperial DTF system or another commercial DTF printer.