Incorrect Nozzle Colour on Epson 1500W

[Justin]

Bit of a strange problem i've nebver seen before.

One of my Epson 1500W printers shows the attached nozzle check. The magenta channel (2nd from right) clearly shows same as adjacent channel which is cyan.

If I do a couple of head cleans the magenta comes back fine but after a day or two cyan returns. I was using for sublimation but since swapped onto another CIS to see if the problem persists which it does. This would indicate an issue with the printer.

Could this be a faulty head?

IMG_20210802_114842.jpg IMG_20210802_114847.jpg

[InkExperts]

Hi Justin,

Unfortunately this is the dreaded head perforation.

The channel separations between each colour are incredibly thin, and over time can wear.
When this happens ink from a neighbouring channel can filter into the nozzle causing discolouration, and eventually takes over the entire nozzle.

I'm afraid there is no fix short of completely replacing the print head.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news on this one.

Finding a new print head may prove a challenge, and with the printer being discontinued you'll only be able to find 2nd hand ones now.

For a direct replacement I would recommend the L1800, but it's a bit pricey compared to what the 1500's used to retail at.

Hope this helps.

[Justin]

No problem at all, completely makes sense thank you. Took a punt on this printer for £50 so not too worried, bought another for £40 as well which is perfect ;-)

I'll keep my eyes open for a head, appreciate the response.

[pw66]

Hi Justin,

Unfortunately this is the dreaded head perforation.

The channel separations between each colour are incredibly thin, and over time can wear.
When this happens ink from a neighbouring channel can filter into the nozzle causing discolouration, and eventually takes over the entire nozzle.

I'm afraid there is no fix short of completely replacing the print head.

One of my 1500w's is developing the same problem, between the yellow and black.

Colour aside, will head perforation affect the print quality? If not then I am thinking of filling it with all black ink - I print black onto enough Hi viz and fluorescent sports tees to justify a dedicated black printer. If nothing else it will take some of the work load off of the remaining printers.

[Justin]

Mine is still printing perfectly so I would have thought all black would work.

[pw66]

Mine is still printing perfectly so I would have thought all black would work.

I hope so - preferable to throwing it out.
Still using the printer today (with the normal inkset) to print an all black design. Everything seems fine, though I can't tell how it would be on a colour image. I have 270 a3+ sheets to print, so I will probably answer my own question by the end of the day.
I'd usually use two printers for a larger job, but there doesn't seem much point in putting miles on the other printer.