iSys V12 Thermal Printer - Manual (Page 28)

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6.2 REGULAR MAINTENANCE
The V12 thermal plotter is designed to require minimal preventative maintenance. If the thermal
printhead and platen roller are cleaned regularly, and the plotter is kept free of debris, extra
maintenance and repairs will be kept to a minimum.
This preventative maintenance is the owner/operators responsibility. Damage to the plotter that
has in The Imaging Systems Group's opinion resulted from neglect or misuse, will not be
covered under warranty.
CAUTION: No parts of the V12 require lubrication. All bearings are sealed and self-lubricating.
Bearings must be replaced in pairs if one fails.
Cleaning the thermal printhead
After prolonged use, the thermal printhead picks up fibers from the paper passing under it.
These fine fibers collect and compact on portions of the printhead, blocking the contact it makes
with the paper during a plot and causing faded patches. Poor contact between the printhead
and paper may also cause the affected heating elements (nibs) to fail prematurely because of
improper heat dissipation to the paper.
Clean the printhead every time a new roll of paper or film is installed.
1. Turn the plotter power off.
2. Moisten (do not soak) a soft, lint-free cloth with 99% isopropyl alcohol. Rub gently along the
length of the printhead.
3. Allow the alcohol to evaporate completely before using the plotter.
CAUTION: Do not touch the printhead with your fingers or other object. The oil on your skin
contaminates the printhead, which lessens plot quality and shortens the print head’s life span.
Cleaning the platen roller
After prolonged use, the platen roller picks up fibers from the paper passing above it. These fine
fibers collect and compact on portions of the platen roller, creating bumps. The uneven surface
of the roller may cause the printhead to contact the passing paper unevenly, producing a
blotchy or faded plot.
Clean the platen roller when it appears dirty, or after approximately three rolls of paper or film
have been plotted.
1. Turn the plotter power off.
2. Moisten (do not soak) a soft, lint-free cloth with 99% isopropyl alcohol. Rub gently along the
length of the roller turning the roller as necessary to remove paper fragments and dust.
3. Allow the alcohol to evaporate completely before using the plotter.
In highly dusty or dirty environments, further cleaning by use of compressed air to keep the
plotter clean is recommended. Always clean the head and platten roller with isopropyl alcohol
after blowing dust out of the plotter.