Bubble Jet Refilling


 

	As reported earlier, Des Pfeiffer gave the C&C group some tips
on refilling cartridges. Des has been in the ribbon reinking,
cartridge refilling business for a number of years, had some expensive
lessons, but now knows most of the tricks of the trade.

	Here are some plagiarised notes from Des:

1.  Inkjet cartridges are very sensitive to drying out. There is no
particular reliable way to store them for any period of time. If you
have used cartridges stored in a drawer, it is likely they will not
work properly if you attempt to refill them. The printhead can be
steamed to clear the blocked jets.

2.  Inkjet cartridges are designed as a disposable item. The print
head contained in the cartridge is not particularly durable. An inkjet
cartridge can be continually refilled until a problem develops with
the print head. This can range from 2 to 10 refills. NOTE ! it is
always a good idea to have a new cartridge as a spare.

3.  A cartridge that is REGULARLY TOPPED UP will generally last longer
tan a cartridge allowed to run out of ink each time. This prevents any
'dry firing' that causes ink to cook and block the jets.

4.  All inkjet cartridges must be considered to be fragile. Always
handle them carefully and avoid touching any electronic part of the
cartridge.

5.  ALWAYS reinstall a refilled cartridge immediately to the printer
and run a 'clean' or 'prime' cycle as for a new cartridge. Your manual
will have instructions on how to do this.

6.  Always clean the equipment you use to refill the cartridge after
use, with water.

7.  The ink used in inkjet cartridges is very strong. It may
permanently stain any porous substance including clothing. Most spills
can be cleaned up with the use of a cleaner containing ammonia.

8.  may of the kits used to refill these cartridges contain syringes
and needles. Although the needles are blunt, it is always advisable to
keep them from the reach of children.

9.  If ink is swallowed, DO NOT induce vomiting. Dilute with milk and
water and seek medical advice.

	Other pieces of information include;

	HP cartridge steaming takes about 2-3 minutes, the cartridge
is quite robust, unlike the Canon cartridges which tend to warp with
steam, and so the steam must be carefully applied to the head. Epsom
cartridges are a bit iffy, best left to the experts.

	 With Canon cartridges, you can often blow them clean.

	Because cartridges are pressurised, some laptop printer
cartridges do not travel well in aircraft, kind of makes a mess of
things.

	Des sells these kits and is prepared to come to your place to
show you how  it is done. It all depends on the cartridge.

	His business card reads "free pick up and delivery" and his
telephone come Fax number is (06) 287 2000

	Thanks to Gordon Urquhart for bringing him along.

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