Preparing your Mimaki for an Extended Break
Planning a break or closing your business for an extended period? Make sure your Mimaki is correctly prepared for downtime to ensure a smooth and stress-free restart when you return.
If your Mimaki will be taking a break for the holidays, now’s the perfect time to learn about how to prepare it for an extended rest.
Whether you’re closing for a few days or longer, following the correct procedures will help ensure your printer is ready to pick up right where it left off. At Hybrid, we always recommend taking a few simple steps ahead of any downtime, so your machine stays in top condition and is ready to get back to work when you are.
When not using a machine for an extended period of time you should do one of two things:
- Leave the machine on standby. Only turn off the machine at the front panel, and leave the power switches at the side of the machine turned on as this is better for circulation. It is also advised to turn off any heaters (if available on the machine) because they are unnecessary and could turn into a hazard without appropriate supervision.
Or
- Perform Custody Wash as described in the operation manual. For all machines, there is a section in the operation manual “When the machine is not used for a long time (Custody Wash)” which can typically be found in Chapter 4 – Maintenance.
It is important to ensure there is plenty of ink in the machine to allow the cleanings to take place and that you empty the waste tank in advance.
If your Mimaki printer hasn’t been used for a week or more, please complete the following procedure:
- Wipe over printer covers, and table/bed ensuring no dust or debris remains.
- Check the condition of any consumable filters and replace them if necessary.
- Empty the Waste Ink.
- Check Ink Dates – replace if required.
- Perform “Disway Wash” as described in the User Guide.
- Perform “Daily Maintenance” as described in the User Guide.
- Finish with a “Normal Clean”.
- Print a Test Draw. If any nozzles are missing, please carry out appropriate actions as outlined below.
| Step | Symptom | Clean Type | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 or 2 nozzles missing | Normal | Test Draw |
| 2 | More than 2 nozzles missing, or Step 1 failed to resolve | Hard followed by Soft | Test Draw |
| 3 | Many nozzles missing | Subtank / Overflow Maintenance followed by Normal Clean | Test Draw |
| 4 | Step 3 failed to resolve | Nozzle Wash (30 min), then repeat Step 3 | Test Draw |
| 5 | Step 4 failed to resolve | — | Email your reseller with a photo of the Nozzle Test and the steps you’ve completed. |
Should you have any questions, you should contact your reseller or Hybrid’s Technical Services team.