UV Curing

[NZOC]

Recently we have been having issues with the UV inks not fully curing and the ink setting off if handled too soon after printing, or not drying at all.

UV bulbs recently changed and only made a minor improvement. We have noticed there is some clouding on one of the quartz glass that could be reducing the effectiveness of the curing. We have tried cleaning using IPA and flush as well as scraping but its well and truly baked on.

First question: Is there a more effective way to clean this?

Second question: After discussing it with the technician he jokingly said remove the quartz glass altogether, would this work? Would it still be safe? Also wouldn't this just cause ink to get onto the UV bulbs drastically shortening its life?

Apparently the the cost of replacing the quartz is quite high.

 

[Boudica]

Specifically, What printer? And how old is it?

 

[NZOC]

Specifically, What printer? And how old is it?

Its a Fujifilm Acuity Advance 4006 and a little over 3 years old.

 

[Pauly]

You could remove it, but not recommended.

If the clouding is on the outside (from the ink)
Soak it with isopropyl. scrub it with steel wool.

 

[NZOC]

You could remove it, but not recommended.

If the clouding is on the outside (from the ink)
Soak it with isopropyl. scrub it with steel wool.

Yes, on the outside. Have tried the IPA and scrubbing which has removed the majority of it but not enough. I will try soaking it in flush overnight and see if that helps.

 

[Pauly]

Yes, on the outside. Have tried the IPA and scrubbing which has removed the majority of it but not enough. I will try soaking it in flush overnight and see if that helps.

Don't use flush.
Use paint thinners or Gunwash. It's far cheaper and will remove it from the glass.
Put it in a container and soak it.