First, I find it amazing that what should be a daily procedure (nozzle check test print) is so often not performed. I have to assume that the installing dealer simply did not train you on how to run this test, nor at what frequency.
If you have a solvent printer from anyany manufacturer, the nozzle test print should be run daily. This allows you to spot problems with nozzle performance before they become major issues. These problems tend to be:
1) Nozzle Outs - Nozzles that are not firing, ie clogged nozzles.
2) Nozzle Deflections - The nozzle is spraying ink, but not in the proper place on the media. This is most often an issue with the color Black (K), as it is the most dense color, and more often tends to leave residue in the nozzle orifice that causes the deflection.
Now that you are experiencing both nozzle outs and deflections, you are into a remedial mode. I would:
a) Replace your wipers. These are the only things that are supposed to come into contact with the nozzle plate. Wipers should be replaced regularly (quarterly or so).
b) Immerse the offending head(s) in cleaning solution. Follow the procedure that High Impact described above for this, for 30 minutes.
c) Run a cleaning from the control panel. Then run the test print again.
It is really pretty common to have nozzle performance issues on the black, on Roland machines. The best thing is to keep your wipers fresh, perform weekly physical cleanings, and use your machine regularly, to keep the ink moving within the ink train. Good luck.
Bob
