Printer Parts

Ink Cartridge

The ink cartridge (Ink Tank) is a key component in the ink supply system of inkjet printers. Its main function is to store and supply ink, ensuring that the printhead can work continuously during the printing process. Ink cartridges are generally divided into main cartridges (primary tanks) and sub-cartridges (secondary tanks). Main cartridges: used for large-capacity ink storage and supply. Sub-cartridges: responsible for supplying ink to the printhead as an intermediate buffer, ensuring stable ink delivery and continuous operation.

Functions of the Ink Cartridge

Ink Supply: Stores sufficient ink to ensure stable ink delivery to the printhead during printing.

Filtration and Protection: High-quality ink cartridges are usually designed with built-in filters or specialized ink channels to prevent large particles from entering the printhead, thereby reducing the risk of nozzle clogging.

Negative Pressure Control: Many ink cartridges are equipped with a negative pressure function, which balances air and liquid pressure to ensure consistent ink output during printing, preventing issues such as ink leakage or overflow.

Extended Lifespan: A well-designed ink cartridge can reduce the workload on the printhead, indirectly extending its service life and reducing maintenance frequency and costs.

Structural Features

Different devices have varying requirements for ink cartridges, resulting in a wide variety of cartridge types on the market. In general, they can be differentiated and understood from the following aspects:

Material Differences: Common materials include transparent plastic and metal. Plastic cartridges are lightweight with high transparency, making it easy to monitor ink levels; metal cartridges, on the other hand, are more durable and pressure-resistant, suitable for industrial-grade equipment capable of withstanding long-term, high-intensity operating conditions.

Valve Design: Depending on the machine model and application needs, cartridges may feature single-valve, dual-valve, or even multi-valve structures. Some models are also equipped with solenoid valves to achieve more precise ink flow control. Valve design directly impacts the stability and safety of ink supply.

Capacity Specifications: Ink cartridges can range from tens of milliliters to several hundred milliliters. They are generally divided into main cartridges and sub cartridges. Main cartridges have large capacity, suitable for mass production, and are usually positioned at the back or side of the printer, supporting external stirring and circulation systems. Smaller sub cartridges are installed on the carriage, equipped with liquid level sensors and heating functions, which are crucial for stable printing.

Structural Details: High-quality cartridges often include observation windows, negative pressure chambers, and even circulation pipeline designs. Though small, these details significantly improve ink supply uniformity and user experience, preventing issues such as bubbles or ink starvation.

Through this tiered and refined design, the main cartridge ensures efficient, large-capacity ink supply, while the sub cartridge guarantees precise and stable ink delivery at the printhead end. Together, they complement each other and serve as an essential safeguard for the stable operation of printing equipment.

Application Scenarios

Printers/Plotters: Transparent cartridges are common, making it easy to observe ink levels and replace them.

UV Flatbed Printers: Cartridges often include pressure regulation to support long-term printing.

Textile Digital Printing Machines: Ink cartridges integrate circulation systems to prevent sedimentation and ensure stable operation.

Roll-to-roll Printers: Equipped with sub-cartridges that buffer ink before it reaches the printhead, ensuring uninterrupted operation.

Precautions

As a consumable component, ink cartridges require special attention during use:

Regular Replacement: Especially the sponge inside sub cartridges, which loses absorption capacity after long-term use, affecting ink supply.

Avoid Frequent Refilling Without Replacing the Cartridge: This can lead to impurities accumulating in the filter, increasing the risk of nozzle clogging.

Do Not Disassemble When Abnormalities Occur: If alarms appear, ink stops flowing, or no ink is ejected, contact a professional for service to avoid damage caused by improper self-disassembly.

Although the ink cartridge is just one component of the printer, its role goes far beyond simply “storing ink.” It ensures stable ink supply and is one of the key factors that determine print quality. If you’ve ever experienced issues such as ink interruption, nozzle clogging, or ink leakage during daily use, it may be worth checking whether the cartridge is the cause. If you still have questions about cartridges for different printer models or need to replace one with a compatible option, feel free to contact us anytime.