Media Shifting on Mimaki CG160FX

[EvergreenTinter]

My plotter can cut traditional vinyl and static cling films without a problem. However, I am trying to cut a 0.36mm thick polycarbonate sheet (which is thicker than those previous films), but when I am feeding it into the plotter, it starts walking and shifts slowly. It is not due to the blade, as I fed it without cutting it, and it started shifting to the right slowly. What could be the problem? this is urgent

 

[Smoke_Jaguar]

Check roller tension and make sure media is feeding straight. Also, try paying out enough media from the roll for the cut job in advance and see if that reduces the drift.

 

[EvergreenTinter]

We tried to do that but it still shifts slightly. I'll link a youtube video so you can see more in-depth.

 

[Smoke_Jaguar]

How old are your rollers? Also, tried dialing back your speeds? At 1:10 in the video it looks like there's something wrapped around a pinch roller. Tapered/damaged rollers or contamination on them can make the roller asymmetric and give it weird tracking properties.

 

[EvergreenTinter]

Those are rubber bands attached to the pinch rollers at 1:10. Without them they shift even more. I've had this plotter around 7-10 years. Would you recommend anything else?

 

[Smoke_Jaguar]

Pinch rollers are consumables on most cutters, might be worth sourcing new ones.

 

[EvergreenTinter]

I see. Do you suggest loading in the material a different way? I called Mimaki and they said they've had complaints of heavier material shifting, so I'm trying to find an at home remedy before I have to order a whole new plotter.
Thank you so much for your advice so far. If you need any more videos, let me know

 

[Smoke_Jaguar]

Roller force, bad rollers, or junk built up on the main grit roller can cause this. Can also adjust speeds, feed out material from the roll to keep the moving mass down, and maintenance like oiling roller shafts can help a lot.

 

[unclebun]

You need new rollers. They are not expensive and they are easy to change.