GT-Jet
Engineers Guide
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Declaration of Conformity ..................................................................................................................4
HEALTH AND SAFETY...................................................................................................................6
WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS..............................................................................................6
PRINTING INKS HEALTH AND SAFETY............................................................................6
FIRE RISK ................................................................................................................................7
ELECTRICAL – HEALTH AND SAFETY ..............................................................................8
MECHANICAL SAFETY .........................................................................................................8
ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT SAFETY ...........................................................................................8
GENERAL SAFETY ...............................................................................................................10
Introduction to the Drop on Demand Technology ............................................................................11
DOD Head Types that have been implemented ................................................................................14
Technical Information on the various Print head types.......................................................................15
GT-Jet 72 (based on the Spectra© Nova 256/80 LQ Jetting Assembly) .....................................15
Increasing the resolution by altering the angle of the Print Head (GT-Jet 72).............................17
GT-Jet 64-300 (based on the Spectra© SL - 128 Jetting Assembly) ............................................18
General handling of the Print head ....................................................................................................20
Print Head Settings .......................................................................................................................20
Normal Startup.........................................................................................................................22
Normal shutdown.....................................................................................................................22
Setting up an Empty GT-Jet 72 Print Head...............................................................................23
Setting up an Empty GT-Jet 64 Print Head...............................................................................24
The print head will stand for longer than 5 days ........................................................................25
The print head will stand for longer than 14 days ......................................................................25
Emptying a GT-Jet print head for transportation .......................................................................26
Flushing out the Meniscus line on a GT-Jet Print Head.............................................................27
Operation Dialog ..............................................................................................................................30
GT-Jet 72 Dialog ..............................................................................................................................30
Functions......................................................................................................................................31
Backplane .................................................................................................................................31
Head Controls ..........................................................................................................................31
GT-Jet 64 Dialog ..............................................................................................................................33
Functions......................................................................................................................................34
Backplane .................................................................................................................................34
Head Controls ..........................................................................................................................34
Settings Dialog ..................................................................................................................................35
GT-Jet 72 Settings ............................................................................................................................36
General .........................................................................................................................................37
Lung Vacuum...........................................................................................................................37
Purge Pressure ..........................................................................................................................37
Short Purge ..............................................................................................................................37
Long Purge...............................................................................................................................37
Pump Time ..............................................................................................................................37
Degassing......................................................................................................................................38
Degas loops...............................................................................................................................38
Degas time................................................................................................................................38
Print Frequency ........................................................................................................................38
Print time .................................................................................................................................38
Internal Test Print.........................................................................................................................39
Wait between Test Print ...........................................................................................................39
GT-Jet 64 Settings ............................................................................................................................40
General .........................................................................................................................................41
Lung Vacuum...........................................................................................................................41
Purge Pressure ..........................................................................................................................41
Short Purge ..............................................................................................................................41
Long Purge...............................................................................................................................41
Pump Time ..............................................................................................................................41
Degassing......................................................................................................................................42
Degas loops...............................................................................................................................42
Degas time................................................................................................................................42
Print Frequency ........................................................................................................................42
Print time .................................................................................................................................42
Internal Test Print.........................................................................................................................43
Wait between Test Print ...........................................................................................................43
Head Settings................................................................................................................................44
Ink Type ..................................................................................................................................44
Meniscus Vacuum.....................................................................................................................44
Temperature .............................................................................................................................44
Pump Speed (Old Piston Pump) ...............................................................................................44
Pump Speed (New Diaphragm Pump) ......................................................................................45
Fire pulse ......................................................................................................................................45
Printing Frequency ...................................................................................................................45
Voltage .....................................................................................................................................45
Firepulse Length .......................................................................................................................45
Leading slew rate ......................................................................................................................46
Trailing slew rate ......................................................................................................................46
GT Jet 72 and 64 Software Dialog.....................................................................................................48
Rip Settings ..................................................................................................................................49
Serial No ..................................................................................................................................49
IP Address ................................................................................................................................49
Subnet Mask .............................................................................................................................49
Gateway ...................................................................................................................................49
Rip Software ................................................................................................................................49
RIP ..........................................................................................................................................50
FPGA .......................................................................................................................................50
Tracker.....................................................................................................................................50
Backplane .....................................................................................................................................50
Head.............................................................................................................................................50
Fire Pulse..................................................................................................................................50
Head PCB ................................................................................................................................50
Status Bar..................................................................................................................................51
GT Jet Extended Settings Dialog .......................................................................................................52
Overlapping..................................................................................................................................53
Chessboard ...............................................................................................................................53
Line..........................................................................................................................................53
Cut...........................................................................................................................................53
Head.............................................................................................................................................54
Low Voltage Fire Pulse .............................................................................................................54
Ink Full Sensor .........................................................................................................................54
The Individual System components ...................................................................................................55
Base Unit......................................................................................................................................55
Power Supply ...............................................................................................................................56
Backplane .....................................................................................................................................58
External Programming of the Backplane Board .........................................................................60
Fire pulse PCB..............................................................................................................................61
External Programming of the Fire pulse Board ..........................................................................63
GT-Jet 72 Head PCB ...................................................................................................................64
GT-Jet 64 Head PCB ...................................................................................................................66
External Programming of the Head Board.................................................................................67
Rip – Tracker PCB ......................................................................................................................68
An example calculation of the maximum distance between Print Heads.....................................68
Connections .................................................................................................................................71
Serial Connector.......................................................................................................................71
DSub 9 pole male. ....................................................................................................................71
Trigger Connector....................................................................................................................72
CAN Connector.......................................................................................................................73
External Programming of the Tracker Card...............................................................................75
Sysloader...........................................................................................................................................77
Pneumatic and Hydraulics .................................................................................................................79
Pneumatic Module of the Base Unit..........................................................................................79
Printhead Pneumatics and Hydraulics ........................................................................................81
Fluids Supply ............................................................................................................................82
Enclosure Options.............................................................................................................................83
GT-Jet Stand-Alone..................................................................................................................83
GT-Jet Rack.............................................................................................................................83
GT-Jet Rack.............................................................................................................................84
Spare parts list ...................................................................................................................................85
Printing a Test Print..........................................................................................................................86
GT-Jet 72 Test Pattern..................................................................................................................86
GT-Jet 64 Test Pattern..................................................................................................................87
Mechanical Alignment ..............................................................................................................88
Software Alignment ..................................................................................................................89
Drawings ..........................................................................................................................................90
GT-Jet 72 Head Drawing .........................................................................................................90
GT-Jet 64 Head Drawing .........................................................................................................90
GT-Jet Base Unit Drawing .......................................................................................................90
GT-Jet Stand Alone Drawing-1 ................................................................................................90
GT-Jet Stand Alone Drawing-2 ...........................................................................90
GT-Jet Rack Drawing ..............................................................................................................90
GT-Jet 72 Head Mounting and Stitching 1-2 Drawing..............................................................90
GT-Jet 64 Head Mounting and Stitching 1-2 Drawing..............................................................90
GT-Jet 64 Head Mounting and Stitching 3-4 Drawing..............................................................90
Declaration of Conformity
In accordance with:
EU DIRECTIVE ON EMC 98/37 EC
IEC/EN61326, Emission (Class B)
IEC/EN61326 (Immunity, industrial areas)
1. Manufacturer
Manufacturer
Address
2. Apparatus
Name of product
Production country
Type of product
Product description
Technical documentation
3. Summary of test results
test type
Mains terminal interference voltage
Radiated electromagnetic field
Radio frequency amplitude
modulated EM-field
Immunity to electrostatic
discharges
Immunity to fast electric transients
Immunity to surges
Systegra AG
Burgunderstr. 15
CH-4512 Bellach
GT Jet
Switzerland
Inkjet
Doku-Nr. 212.89.73.000
standard
EN 61000-6-3:01 with limit B of regulation
EN 55011:98 +A1:99+A2:02
EN 61000-6-3:01 with limit B of regulation
EN 55011:98 +A1:99+A2:02
results
EN 61000-6-2:01
Test passed
EN 61000-4-2:95+A1:98
Test passed
EN 61000-4-4:95+A1:01+A2:01
EN 61000-4-5:95+A1:01
Test passed
Test passed
Test passed
Test passed
The Inkjet type GT Jet conforms with the protection requirements
of the EMC Directive 98/37/EC by its design and type of
construction
CH-4512 Bellach, April 28th, 2005
Systegra AG
sig. Brandenberger
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Issue 5 April 2006
Page 5 - 99
HEALTH AND SAFETY
WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
These two safety categories are given for conditions that pose a danger to personnel or for conditions that may
cause damage to equipment or materials.
Warnings
The instructions provided in a warning are mandatory and must be followed precisely. They are given to prevent
injury or death.
Cautions
The instructions provided in a caution are mandatory and must be followed precisely. They are given to prevent
damage to equipment or materials.
PRINTING INKS HEALTH AND SAFETY
Graph-Tech AG supplies Product Health and Safety Sheets giving specific safety information with each of its inks.
The following advice is given for guidance.
Further instructions can be obtained from The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
Industrial Hygiene and Safe Working Practice
When used correctly, printing inks do not present unacceptable hazards or problems. However, everybody using
them must be familiar with the appropriate safety standards and be aware of the precautions that must be taken.
The following are basic requirements:
• Proper standards of industrial practice relating to cleanliness, tidiness and storage must be maintained
• Inks and ink containers must be handled with care
• All who come into contact with inks must be properly instructed in their use
• Do not use the printer in wet or explosive environments.
Directions for safe working practices vary according to the environment. The following are broad principles so
that necessary precautions may be taken:
• Contact with the mouth must be avoided. Therefore eating, drinking or smoking, or any personal habits or
actions that may transfer ink to the mouth, must be avoided.
• Contact with the eyes must be avoided. Suitable eye protection must always be worn whenever there is any risk
of splashing or misting. If ink does get into the eyes, first aid treatment is to flood the affected eye for 15 minutes
with saline solution, or clean water if not available (take care not to allow the water to run into the unaffected
eye). Medical aid must be obtained immediately.
• Most inks contain solvents that may injure the skin. Warning of this is given on the ink data sheets. Barrier
creams, gloves and protective clothing must be worn. After exposure to ink, all possible traces must be washed off
as soon as possible at the nearest washing facility.
• Solvent based printing inks and their vapors are flammable. Precautions must be taken to avoid flames or sparks
near ink or solvent containers, and even the ink stream itself. Sparks from motors, mechanical impact and even
personal static discharge can ignite these materials and result in a fire with the printer ON or OFF. To avoid static
discharge, the operator must use a grounding strap when cleaning the head.
• Many inks contain materials that vaporize easily, producing fumes that can be inhaled. Good ventilation is
necessary.
• Soiled cleaning materials, e.g. rags, paper wipes, are a potential fire hazard. They must be collected for safe
disposal after use.
• Spillages of printing inks and auxiliary products must be cleaned up immediately. Inks and solvents must not be
allowed to enter drains or sewage systems.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 6 - 99
Storage
Printing inks must be stored in well-ventilated buildings, or in areas set aside for the purpose, chosen for safety in
case of fire. Materials based on volatile, flammable solvents must be stored in accordance with local regulations.
FIRE RISK
WARNINGS:
1) Solvent based printing inks and their vapours are flammable, and precautions must be taken to
avoid flames or sparks near ink or solvent containers and even the ink stream itself.
Sparks from motors, mechanical impact, and even personal static discharge can ignite these
materials. The volumes of fluids present when cleaning the print head require further precautions to
prevent the possibility of
ignition. Static discharge can become an ignition source, given the right atmospheric conditions,
and result in a fire with the printer ON or OFF. To avoid this discharge, operators must use a
grounding wrist strap, connected to the print head, when cleaning the print head. The strap safely
dissipates any build up of static
charge on the operator.
2) Ink jet printers place small electrostatic charges on the ink drops used for printing. In most
circumstances, such as when they arrive at the print surface, these electrostatic charges are either
conducted away or cannot accumulate. However, during maintenance, print drops may be collected
in a container, such as a beaker. It
is essential that this container is made of conducting material and is securely connected to
ground/earth. The electrostatic charges will then be safely conducted to ground/earth.
3) Many inks used in ink jet printing contain binders that remain highly flammable when dry.
Observe all warnings given on the machine and the following safety instructions:
4) Dried ink, especially from spillages, is flammable. Do not allow a build up of dried ink to occur.
If there has been an accumulation of dried ink, do not use metal (iron or steel) scrapers to remove
it, as they can be a source of ignition.
5) If dry Nitro-cellulose based ink ignites, it will generate its own oxygen and can only be
extinguished by
lowering the temperature with water. If a Nitro-cellulose fire occurs, ensure that the electrical
power is immediately removed from the printer before water is used to extinguish the fire.
Fire risk is a most important consideration where printing inks are stored and used. The degree of fire hazard will
vary considerably from one type of ink or wash to another.
Water-based inks will not burn, although inks based on water-alcohol mixtures may burn if there is sufficient
alcohol present.
Solvent-based inks offer a greater degree of hazard depending on the particular solvent or solvent combination.
When there is a particular hazard the appropriate information is given on the Safety Data Sheet.
If there is a fire, there is a likelihood that dangerous fumes will arise from printing inks. For this reason ink must
be stored where it can be reached quickly by the fire fighting service, and where it will not spread beyond the
store.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 7 - 99
ELECTRICAL – HEALTH AND SAFETY
WARNINGS:
1) High voltages are present within the print head and cabinet. Ensure that the power is removed
before opening cabinets, removing panels, or removing the print head cover.
2) Ensure that the correct fire extinguishers are readily to hand. Do not use water as an extinguisher
for electrical fires.
Graph-Tech Printers require an electrical input and generate high voltages.
Maintenance Personnel and Service Engineers must be competently trained before working on the equipment.
MECHANICAL SAFETY
WARNINGS:
Do not attempt to lift heavy equipment by yourself. Use lifting equipment or a two-man lift.
Ensure that cables do not create a hazard to personnel.
CAUTION: Ensure that all mechanical servicing is carried out by trained and authorized personnel.
ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT SAFETY
Ultraviolet Light Hazards
• Harmful to eyes - may cause permanent eye damage, similar to arc welder “flash”
• Harmful to skin - skin burns can be experienced, similar to severe sunburn
• All light shielding must be in place during equipment operation.
High Voltage Hazards
• Grounding of equipment - proper equipment ground must be provided
• Ballasts - high voltages exist on both primary and secondary sides of the ballast transformer
• Capacitors - certain power supplies may contain capacitors that must be discharged by qualified personnel before
servicing
• High Voltages - high voltage is present in the lamp housing assembly and in the Ballast cabinet. Shut power
OFF before working on the equipment
• If the system is water cooled, DO NOT allow operation if any water leaks are present.
Volatile Materials
• Due to the high voltages and the necessary control equipment, the UV system must be considered a potential
“spark” source. DO NOT operate UV lamps within 20 feet of any area where volatile materials are stored,
mixed, poured, or sprayed.
Ventilation
• Ventilation of the lamp housing and ballast cabinet is required for proper operation of the equipment and
removal of OZONE generated by the UV lamps.
Safety Equipment
• DO NOT alter or modify safety equipment, electrical interlocks, guards, signs, etc. This is strictly forbidden.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 8 - 99
Handling and Cleaning of Lamps
• Allow lamps to cool prior to handling
• Safety glasses should be worn whenever handling UV lamps
• Skin oils attack the quartz tube of the lamp, causing premature lamp failure
• Clean, soft, cloth type gloves should be worn when handling UV lamps.
• Cleaning the lamps with alcohol is recommended and should be done at regular intervals. Use lint free paper
towels or tissue
• UV lamps are fragile - handle with care
• Broken UV lamps should be disposed of properly. UV lamps contain a very small amount of mercury, which
also must be disposed of properly.
Use Equipment as Designed
• Use the equipment for products and processes for which it was designed
• DO NOT use the equipment for materials wider than that for which the equipment was designed
• Since the UV lamps emit high energy, there is always a risk of fire should any material get jammed under the
lamp or in the lamp vicinity. Should this situation occur, the operator must switch OFF the UV equipment
immediately. If a fire extinguisher is used, it must be of a type suitable for use with electrical equipment.
Nitrogen
• If the UV System is equipped for running in an inert (nitrogen) mode, an asphyxiation hazard may be present.
Therefore, the unit should be located in a well ventilated area. Area hoods are also recommended at the entrance
and exit of the processor, to remove nitrogen gas from the area.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 9 - 99
GENERAL SAFETY
• The above safety precautions are general and are not all inclusive. A common sense approach to safety must
apply.
Symbols
The following symbols are used in this manual. Where they appear next to a procedure or instruction, they have
the significance and importance of a written Warning or Caution.
Eye protection must be worn.
Protective clothing must be worn. Use adequate protective gloves. Consult Ink Safety Data Sheets.
Note: Gloves made from latex may in rare instances cause an allergic reaction.
Equipment must be switched off and the power connection removed.
Only trained Basic Operators should carry out this procedure.
Only trained Advanced Operators should carry out this procedure.
Beware of electro-static discharge. The following electro-static precautions must be used:
• Wear a wristband connected to ground/earth
• Avoid wearing clothing that can build up electro-static voltages
• Use Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) protective bags to transport pcb's
• Only place pcb's on a mat made from material that will dissipate electro-static voltages and that is connected to
ground/earth.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 10 - 99
Introduction to the Drop on Demand Technology
The Piezo Effect
The 256 Pumping chambers in the Jetting Assembly of the GT-Jet 72 are stimulated by piezo electric Impulses.
One quarter of the jetting assembly has 64 Pumping chambers which is one piezo element.
This type of sharing mode has the possibility to stimulate each jet individually. Before the printing process starts a
serial data stream will be sent to the quarter for the selection of the correct image to be printed. The firepulse is
set to a specific frequency and also intensity for the selected piezo channel. The piezo effect causes a deforming of
the pumping chamber walls outwards, this deforming then causes a negative pressure inside which then sucks the
ink in. After a defined pulse length the firepulse voltage decreases with a controlled steepness. Due to the decrease
in voltage the pumping chamber walls are released causing the ink to be forced out of the nozzle by the
overpressure in the chamber.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 11 - 99
Trapped Air bubbles
6
Trapped air bubbles are the main cause for missing drops or jets.
6
Air bubbles stick to sharp edges, raw surfaces and particles in the ink.
6
Air bubbles can be trapped anywhere within the ink system.
6
The integrated Reservoir Lung removes the air in the ink before it enters the Jetting Assembly.
6 The ink is exposed to the air at the nozzle plate surface.
6 The Ink in the drop generator becomes fully saturated with air over time.
6Air bubbles act like a spring to absorb the actuator energy,
this can prevent drop ejection.
Principally air bubbles in the Pumping Chamber originate due to various reasons e.g. Long hours of standby times
or sharp knocks to the print head. The only possibility to remove unwanted air bubbles out of the Jetting
Assembly is to push them out by means of Ink under a high pressure. This is done by performing a Purge
function which causes an overpressure in the ink reservoir. This then forces the ink/air bubbles through the
nozzle plate allowing fresh de-aired ink into the assembly.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 12 - 99
6 The intake stroke of the diaphragm creates a low pressure that
contributes to trapped bubble formation and growth.
6 A special flush cycle is required to pump sufficient Ink through
the Print Head to flush trapped air bubbles.
6 Small motion of piezo diaphragm pressurizes the Ink inside a large chamber,
air bubbles absorb the energy of the diaphragm stroke.
6 Very low Fluid speeds except near the nozzle plate are ineffective at flushing out
trapped air bubbles during normal operation.
The graph shows that the further the air bubbles are from the nozzle opening the more liquid required to be
pumped in, to remove the air bubbles.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 13 - 99
DOD Head Types that have been implemented
GT-Jet 72 (based on the Spectra© Nova 256/80 LQ Jetting Assembly)
GT-Jet 64-300 (based on the Spectra© SL - 128 Jetting Assembly)
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 14 - 99
Technical Information on the various Print head types
GT-Jet 72 (based on the Spectra© Nova 256/80 LQ Jetting Assembly)
Speed/Resolution Chart GT-Jet 72
6
Speed M/sec
5
4
3
2
Best M/Sec
1
Safe M/Sec
Max M/sec
0
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
Resolution DPI
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 15 - 99
Speed/Resolution Chart GT-Jet 72
350
Speed M/Min
300
250
200
150
100
Best M/min
50
Safe M/min
Max M/min
0
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
Resolution DPI
Speed/Resolution Chart GT-Jet 72
1200
Speed fpm
1000
800
600
400
Best fpm
200
Safe fpm
Max fpm
0
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
Resolution DPI
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 16 - 99
Increasing the resolution by altering the angle of the Print Head (GT-Jet 72)
The Jetting Assembly has one nozzle per channel and all nozzles are aligned in a single row. The distance between
each nozzle is preset and would give you the native resolution, normally displayed in dpi (drops per inch). By
angling the heads at various angles you are able to increase or decrease the resolution that you can print at eg:
(245 x 295 dpi).
By angling the GT-Jet 72 print head you are able to increase the printing resolution, but bearing in mind that the
height of the print will also be decreased the higher the resolution.
Some of our newer print head types have several jetting assemblies built into one head allowing for the higher
printing resolutions without affecting the height of the print and also eliminating the angling of the print head.
The GT-Jet will be delivered with the head mounting and also the encoder to measure the speed of the product
on the production line. With the impulse rate of the encoder the following resolutions and printing heights are
available on the GT-Jet 72 printer:
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 17 - 99
GT-Jet 64-300 (based on the Spectra© SL - 128 Jetting Assembly)
Speed / Resolution Guide Chart GT-Jet 64
7
Speed M/Sec
6
5
4
3
105
2
210
1
Best M/Sec
316
421
0
0
200
400
Safe M/Sec
526
Max M/sec
600
Resolution DPI
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 18 - 99
Speed / Resolution Guide Chart GT-Jet 64
400
Speed M/Min
350
300
250
200
150
105
100
210
50
Best M/min
316
421
Safe M/min
526
Max M/min
0
0
200
400
600
Resolution DPI
Speed / Resolution Guide Chart GT-Jet 64
1400
Speed fpm
1200
1000
800
600
105
400
210
200
Best fpm
316
421
Safe fpm
526
Max fpm
0
0
200
400
600
Resolution DPI
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 19 - 99
General handling of the Print head
#
Wipes
Part Number:
50071
The wipes are lint and dust free and are manufactured and packaged in a clean room ensuring a high quality
standard. It should only be stored in the special container and must be closed again after a wipe is removed. A
wipe should only be used once, and the nozzle plate wiped in one wipe with the direction of the nozzles.
Note. The Print head must only be cleaned with the Wipes that are supplied with the Printer!
Note. Unspecified or usage of non-dust free wipes can lead to permanent damage or blockages of the nozzle plate!
Print Head Settings
The performance of the Jetting Assembly is not dependant on these settings. The Ink reservoir in the print head
in which the Meniscus Vacuum works should not be turned against the natural gravitation. This will result in a
blockage of the liquid stopper filters of the Meniscus pump. If this does happen due to incorrect handling the
stopper filter must be replaced and the tube between the Meniscus pump and the Ink reservoir must also be
cleaned out thoroughly. For this to be done the print head cover must be removed, which may only be done by
trained personal!
When the Meniscus vacuum is switched off, the connection between the Meniscus pump and the Reservoir is
closed at the Head by Solenoid H1. By pushing the inactive button in the Inkjet dialog the Meniscus Vacuum is
switched off, it is also switched off when the complete inkjet is switched off.
The GT-Jet 72 Print Head can be mounted in the following positions
Note. The Meniscus Port must always be above the ink level otherwise the ink will run back into the Vacuum tank!
Printing Downwards (Meniscus = 7 mbar)
Meniscus Port
Ink Level
Side Printing vertical (Meniscus =6 mbar)
Meniscus Port
Ink Level
Side Printing horizontal (Meniscus =4 mbar)
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 20 - 99
The GT-Jet 64 Print Head can be mounted in the following positions
Note. The Meniscus Port must always be above the ink level otherwise the ink will run back into the Vacuum tank!
Printing Downwards (Meniscus = 16 mbar)
Meniscus Port
Ink Level
Vertical Printing (Meniscus =14 mbar)
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 21 - 99
Normal Startup
If the print head has not been standing for longer than 5 days, it should be started as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Place a wash tray underneath the print head and remove the Capping tray.
Start the printer, open the Inkjet Dialog and press the Active button. The central Control Unit
will now be activated.
By pressing the Active button for the Print head required, the heating will automatically be
switched on. As soon as the correct temperature is reached the Purge button will be available.
Click on the Long Purge button to perform a long purge (400mbar, 4sec). After the calibration
has been done take a wipe and clean the nozzle plate with one wipe in the direction of the
nozzles.
Print a Test Pattern and check if there are any missing jets, If so, repeat step 4.
If there are jets that are still missing after 2 long purges, set the purge pressure to 700mbar and
the duration to 5 seconds and press the long purge button. Take a wipe and clean the nozzle
plate with one wipe in the direction of the nozzles.
Set the purge pressure back to 400mbar and the duration back to 4 seconds.
Click on the Clean Internal button and check to see if all the Jets are printing. If some Jets are
still not working, click on the Long Purge button and do another Purge.
Normal shutdown
If the print head stands for less than 5 days.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Issue 5 April 2006
Place a wash tray underneath the print head.
Click on the Long Purge button to perform a Long Purge (400mbar, 4sec). After the calibration
has been done take a wipe and clean the nozzle plate with one wipe in the direction of the
nozzles.
De-activate the head by clicking on the Head Active button.
Wash the Capping tray with the correct wash solution of the Ink being used and cap the print
head.
Switch the Inkjet off, the print head can now be left standing for 5 days.
Page 22 - 99
Setting up an Empty GT-Jet 72 Print Head
The Print Head will be Inked up and ready to print in 30 Minutes.
1.
Remove the print head from the transport container and mount it onto the Print Head
mounting bracket.
2.
Slot the Fire pulse card at the other end of the Print Head Tube into the Snap-In Slot of the
Base Unit and make sure you have aligned it up correctly and it snaps into position to ensure a
proper connection on the Backplane board.
3.
4.
Place a wash tray underneath the print head and remove the Capping tray.
Connect the Ink Container.
5.
Switch the printer on and open the Inkjet Dialog Settings.
6.
Set the Meniscus Vacuum value to 0mbar.
7.
Activate the Backplane and then Activate the Head. Allow the print head to heat up to the
correct temperature and perform a Short Purge (400mbar, 2sec).
8.
Wait till the reservoir is filled automatically. (The reservoir is full as soon as the Purge buttons
are no longer hidden.) At this point an Ink Empty Error may occur, Click on the Error Reset
button the carry on with the filling process.
9.
De-Activate the Head.
10. Set the Meniscus Vacuum value back to 7mbar.
11. Activate the Head.
12. Click on the Long Purge button to perform a Long Purge (400mbar, 2sec). After the calibration
has been done take a wipe and clean the nozzle plate, with one wipe in the direction of the
nozzles.
13. Print a Test Pattern and check if there are any missing jets. If so, repeat step 12.
14. If there are missing jets after 2 Long Purges, allow the system to print for at least 1 hour under
real production conditions before performing another Purge.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 23 - 99
Setting up an Empty GT-Jet 64 Print Head
The Print Head will be Inked up and ready to print in 30 Minutes.
1.
Remove the print head from the transport container and mount it onto the Print Head
mounting bracket.
2.
Slot the Fire pulse card at the other end of the Print Head Tube into the Snap-In Slot of the
Base Unit and make sure you have aligned it up correctly and it snaps into position to ensure a
proper connection on the Backplane board.
3.
4.
Place a wash tray underneath the print head and remove the Capping tray.
Connect the Ink Container.
5.
Switch the printer on and open the Inkjet Dialog Settings.
6.
Set the Meniscus Vacuum value to 0mbar.
7.
Activate the Backplane and then Activate the Head. Allow the print head to heat up to the
correct temperature and perform a Short Purge (400mbar, 2sec).
8.
Wait till the reservoir is filled automatically. (The reservoir is full as soon as the Purge buttons
are no longer hidden.) At this point an Ink Empty Error may occur, Click on the Error Reset
button the carry on with the filling process.
9.
De-Activate the Head.
10. Set the Meniscus Vacuum value back to 16mbar.
11. Activate the Head.
12. Click on the Long Purge button to perform a Long Purge (400mbar, 4sec). After the calibration
has been done take a wipe and clean the nozzle plate, with one wipe in the direction of the
nozzles.
13. Print a Test Pattern and check if there are any missing jets. If so, repeat step 12.
14. If there are missing jets after 2 Long Purges, allow the system to print for at least 1 hour under
real production conditions before performing another Purge.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 24 - 99
The print head will stand for longer than 5 days
If a print head is not used for more than 5 days, a Long Purge (4 Seconds) must be done once a week. If the
printer is not used for longer than two weeks, the steps below should be followed.
The print head will stand for longer than 14 days
The print head will stand for longer than 14 days.
1.
Remove the Ink Bottle at the Ink Bottle Holder.
2.
Place a wash tray underneath the print head.
3.
Set the Long Purge time to 30sec.
4.
Set the Ink Pump time to 120sec.
5.
Set the Meniscus Vacuum value to 0mbar.
6.
Click on the Long Purge button to perform a Long Purge and wait until the Ink Empty Error
occurs.
7.
Connect a bottle of Flush at the bottle Holder for the correct Ink being used.
8.
Click on the Reset Error button to allow the filling process to continue.
9.
Repeat step 6 until 1 Litre of Flush has been put through the system. Always remember to Reset the
Ink Empty Error before performing the next Purge.
10. Take a wipe and clean the nozzle plate with one wipe in the direction of the nozzles.
11. De-activate the Print Head.
12. Set the Long Purge time back to 4sec.
13. Set the Ink Pump time back to 60sec.
14. Set the Meniscus Vacuum value back to either 7mbar (GT-Jet 72) or 16mbar(GT-Jet 64).
15. Wash down the capping plate with the correct Flush for the ink being used and cap the print head.
16. Switch the inkjet off. The print head can now be left standing for up to 3 months.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 25 - 99
Emptying a GT-Jet print head for transportation
The print head should be washed down, emptied and prepared for shipping.
1.
Remove the Ink Bottle at the Ink Bottle Holder. (New Bottle Ink System) or
2.
Remove the Ink tube at the Ink Bag Holder. (Old Bag/Cubitainer Ink System)
3.
Make sure the tubes are clean before inserting them into the flush bottle.
4.
Place a wash tray underneath the print head.
5.
Set the Long Purge time to 30sec.
6.
Set the Ink Pump time to 120sec.
7.
Set the Meniscus Vacuum value to 0mbar.
8.
Click on the Long Purge button to perform a Long Purge and wait until the Ink Empty Error occurs.
9.
Connect a bottle of Flush at the bottle Holder for the correct Ink being used.
10. Click on the Reset Error button to allow the filling process to continue.
11. Repeat step 6 until 1 Litre of Flush has been put through the system. Always remember to Reset the Ink
Empty Error before performing the next Purge.
12. Take a wipe and clean the nozzle plate with one wipe in the direction of the nozzles.
13. De-activate the Print Head.
14. Set the Long Purge time back to 4sec.
15. Set the Ink Pump time back to 60sec.
16. Set the Meniscus Vacuum value back to either 7mbar (GT-Jet 72) or 16mbar(GT-Jet 64).
17. Wash down the capping plate with the correct Flush for the Ink being used and cap the print head.
18. Secure the capping plate clamps with cable ties.
19. Switch the inkjet off. Remove the print head from the mounting bracket and also unplug it from the
snap in slot in the Base Unit.
20. Place the complete print head including the conduit assembly, pump box and Ink Holder into the Box
supplied with the print head.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 26 - 99
Flushing out the Meniscus line on a GT-Jet Print Head
1.
Turn off the Base Unit.
2.
Disconnect the Meniscus filter on the Pump box, and connect the tube directly to the Luer
fitting nipple.
3.
Close the needle valve mounted on top of the pump box, by turning it clockwise.
4.
Open the pump box and attach a Silicon tube to the Output nipple of the Meniscus pump,
insert the other end into an empty container.
Take the head cover off the print head.
5.
6.
Disconnect the tube at the Meniscus Sensor and extend it with a piece of Silicon tubing, about
20cm long.
7.
Disconnect the Meniscus Sensor cable plug from the Meniscus sensor board.
8.
Fill a new container with half a litre of Acetone and place the extended Meniscus line (Silicon
tubing) directly into the Acetone.
9.
Start the Controller and Base Unit.
10. Go to the settings page and set the values as below.
GT-Jet 72
GT-Jet 64
Long Purge
30
30
Max Pump Time
0
0
Meniscus Vacuum
19
19
11. Place the print head in the following position so that the Meniscus connection on the vacuum
tank is at the lowest point.
GT-Jet 72
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 27 - 99
GT-Jet 64
12. Wait until the full half a litre of Acetone has been pumped through the Vacuum system and
that there is just air being pumped out from the Meniscus pump.
13. De-activate the head and Base unit.
14. Turn the Base Unit off.
15. Place the print head back in the printing position and put a wash tray underneath the head.
16. Re-connect the Meniscus Sensor cable.
17. Re-connect the Meniscus tube to P1 of the Meniscus Sensor.
18. Set the Meniscus needle valve by adjusting it 3-4 full turns open (anti clockwise).
19. Close the Pump box.
20. Start the Controller and Base Unit.
21. Go to the settings page and set the values as below.
GT-Jet 72
GT-Jet 64
4
4
Max Pump Time
300
300
Meniscus Vacuum
0
0
Long Purge
22. Activate the Backplane and then Activate the Head.
23. Wait until the head has reached the set temperature and perform a Long Purge.
24. The Ink pump will start to pump and will then fill the head. Once the correct level has been
reached the pump will then turn off.
25. De-Activate the Head.
26. Go to the settings page and set the values as below.
GT-Jet 72
GT-Jet 64
Max Pump Time
100
100
Meniscus Vacuum
7
16
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 28 - 99
27. When the Meniscus sensor reads more than 5mbar (GT-Jet 72) or 14mbar (GT-Jet 64),
Activate the head and perform a Long Purge.
28. The print head is now ready for use.
29. The Meniscus filter on the pump box Must be replaced with a new filter about 2 hours after this
procedure has been completed. (System Running)
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 29 - 99
Operation Dialog
In the operation Dialog all the daily operations required for the printer can be performed. All the settings for the
print head can be pre defined in the settings dialog by a trained user.
GT-Jet 72 Dialog
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 30 - 99
Functions
Backplane
Click on the Backplane Active button to either Activate or De-Activate it. When wanting to start the
printer up this should be done first. When turning the printer off this should be done after De-Activating the
head.
Head Controls
Printer Status window.
Click on the Head Active button to either Activate or De-Activate the print head. When
wanting to start the printer you will need to Activate the Backplane first and when wanting to turn the printer off
this should be done first before De-Activating the Backplane. By Activating the print head it will then turn on the
heaters in the Ink Reservoir and Jetting assembly allowing the system to heat up to the set temperature. The
Meniscus Vacuum and the Ink Supply have also been switched on. The Head Active button will be hidden until
the Backplane has been Activated.
Click the Reset Error button to reset all the printer related errors from within the
operation dialog screen, for example the Ink level low, meniscus error etc.
Click on the Purge Short button to remove air bubbles that are close to the nozzle opening. This
process is normally performed when after long usage or not used for a few hours, that not all the jets are available
due to either air bubbles which have been trapped close to the nozzle opening or dust particles which have settled
on the nozzle surface. When a short purge is performed the ink inside the pumping chamber is replaced. After
clicking the purge button it will be hidden until the system has stabilized the meniscus vacuum and the level has
been checked.
Click on the Purge Long button to remove air trapped inside the Jetting Assembly. This process is
normally performed when a Short Purge has been done three times with an interval of about 1minute between
each purge and there are still jets that are missing or after a new startup in the morning. When a long purge is
performed the ink inside the jetting assembly is replaced. After clicking the purge button it will be hidden until
the system has stabilized the meniscus vacuum and the level has been checked.
With the activation of this function all jets will print with a preset frequency. By running a sheet of
paper slowly and close to the nozzle plate in the print direction you are able to see if all jets are printing. The
Clean Internal button will be hidden until the head has been Activated and Calibration completed.
The Degas function can be used to burn in a Print Head, get rid of any air bubbles or unblocking
blocked jets by automatically doing a cycle of Purge and Print functions with a predefined printing frequency.
These settings are part of the Base Unit and are valid for all Print Heads connected to the Inkjet printer. The
Degas button will be hidden until the head has been Activated and Calibration completed.
With the activation of this function a test image will be printed with every jet on every product that
runs on the production line. The intensity, distance to the other jets and any missing jets are clearly visible. To
perform a test print the print head must be in the correct printing position with the encoder and print go
photocell set up correctly. If this is done, click on the Test button to activate this function, every product that
passes under the print head will be printed with the Test Image.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 31 - 99
With the activation of this function a test image will be printed with every jet. The intensity, distance
to the other jets and any missing jets are clearly visible. To perform a test internal print the print head must be in
the correct printing position, no encoder and print go photocell signals are required. The Test Internal function
uses an internal clock signal to generate a print go and encoder signal at a predefined interval and frequency. You
are able to set these values in the Settings Dialog. If this is done, click on the Test Internal button to activate this
function, and pass a product under the print head at a constant speed. The test image will then be printed onto
the product at the set time interval.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 32 - 99
GT-Jet 64 Dialog
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 33 - 99
Functions
Backplane
Click on the Backplane Active button to either Activate or De-Activate it. When
wanting to start the printer up this should be done first. When turning the printer off this should be done after
De-Activating the head.
Head Controls
Printer Status window.
Click on the Head Active button to either Activate or De-Activate the print head. When
wanting to start the printer you will need to Activate the Backplane first and when wanting to turn the printer off
this should be done first before De-Activating the Backplane. By Activating the print head it will then turn on the
heaters in the Ink Reservoir and Jetting assembly allowing the system to heat up to the set temperature. The
Meniscus Vacuum and the Ink Supply have also been switched on. The Head Active button will be hidden until
the Backplane has been Activated.
Click the Reset Error button to reset all the printer related errors from within the
operation dialog screen, for example the Ink level low, meniscus error etc.
Click on the Purge Short button to remove air bubbles that are close to the nozzle opening. This
process is normally performed when after long usage or not used for a few hours, that not all the jets are available
due to either air bubbles which have been trapped close to the nozzle opening or dust particles which have settled
on the nozzle surface. When a short purge is performed the ink inside the pumping chamber is replaced. After
clicking the purge button it will be hidden until the system has stabilized the meniscus vacuum and the level has
been checked.
Click on the Purge Long button to remove air trapped inside the Jetting Assembly. This process is
normally performed when a Short Purge has been done three times with an interval of about 1minute between
each purge and there are still jets that are missing or after a new startup in the morning. When a long purge is
performed the ink inside the jetting assembly is replaced. After clicking the purge button it will be hidden until
the system has stabilized the meniscus vacuum and the level has been checked.
With the activation of this function all jets will print with a preset frequency. By running a sheet of
paper slowly and close to the nozzle plate in the print direction you are able to see if all jets are printing. The
Clean Internal button will be hidden until the head has been Activated and Calibration completed.
The Degas function can be used to burn in a Print Head, get rid of any air bubbles or unblocking
blocked jets by automatically doing a cycle of Purge and Print functions with a predefined printing frequency.
These settings are part of the Base Unit and are valid for all Print Heads connected to the Inkjet printer. The
Degas button will be hidden until the head has been Activated and Calibration completed.
With the activation of this function a test image will be printed with every jet on every
product that runs on the production line. The intensity, distance to the other jets and any missing jets are clearly
visible. To perform a test print the print head must be in the correct printing position with the encoder and print
go photocell set up correctly. If this is done, click on the Test button to activate this function, every product that
passes under the print head will be printed with the Test Image.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 34 - 99
Settings Dialog
In the Settings Dialog the Expert user is able to alter the setup and configuration of the Print Head/s. These
settings should not be altered unless the operator is fully trained on the system and has a very good understanding
of the Drop on Demand Technology.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 35 - 99
GT-Jet 72 Settings
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 36 - 99
General
Pnuematics
Lung Vacuum
A vacuum is connected behind a Teflon Membrane which only allows air and no liquid through it. The
air bubbles in the ink that are on there way from the ink reservoir in the print head to the Jetting
Assembly are removed.
Nominal Setting
750mbar
Purge Pressure
Pressure is created in the Ink reservoir to force the air out of either the pumping chamber or Jetting
Assembly’s during a purge function.
Nominal Setting
400mbar
Short Purge
Duration of the Short Purge function in seconds. (De-airing function).
Nominal Setting
2 sec
Long Purge
Duration of the Long Purge function in seconds. (De-airing function).
Nominal Setting
4 sec
Pump Time
Maximum time in seconds that the Ink pump has to fill the Ink reservoir. When this time duration has
been reached, the Ink pump is switched off and allows the pump to cool down for the same time period.
If after the 3rd attempt at filling the reservoir the time is reached a notification is given that the Ink
Container is empty.
Nominal Setting
Issue 5 April 2006
Old Piston Pump
120
New Diaphram Pump
100
Page 37 - 99
Degassing
The Degassing function can be used to burn in a Print Head, get rid of any air bubbles or unblocking blocked jets
by automatically doing a cycle of Purge and Print functions with a predefined printing frequency. These settings
are part of the Base Unit and are valid for all Print Heads connected to the Inkjet printer.
Degas loops
Amount of degas cycle functions that will be completed.
Nominal Setting
De-aring
2
Un-blocking Jets
5
Degas time
A pause time in seconds between the Purge and the Print function to give the Lung time to de-air the
fresh Ink replaced on the film.
De-aring
260
Nominal Setting
Un-blocking Jets
260
Print Frequency
This is the frequency of the print defined in Hertz.
De-airing
1000Hz
Nominal Setting
Un-blocking Jets
30’000Hz
Print time
Duration in Seconds for the printing phase.
Nominal Setting
Issue 5 April 2006
De-airing
300
Un-blocking Jets
300
Page 38 - 99
Internal Test Print
Wait between Test Print
Duration in Seconds for the time between test prints.
Nominal Setting
2 sec
Clicking the Defaults button will load all the default values for the printhead type that has been
connected to the Base Unit.
Issue 5 April 2006
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GT-Jet 64 Settings
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 40 - 99
General
Pnuematics
Lung Vacuum
The Lung vacuum is not used on the GT-Jet 64.
Nominal Setting
0mbar
Purge Pressure
Pressure is created in the Ink reservoir to force the air out of either the pumping chamber or Jetting
Assembly’s during a purge function.
Nominal Setting
400mbar
Short Purge
Duration of the Short Purge function in seconds. (De-airing function).
Nominal Setting
2 sec
Long Purge
Duration of the Long Purge function in seconds. (De-airing function).
Nominal Setting
4 sec
Pump Time
Maximum time in seconds that the Ink pump has to fill the Ink reservoir. When this time duration has
been reached, the Ink pump is switched off and allows the pump to cool down for the same time period.
If after the 3rd attempt at filling the reservoir the time is reached a notification is given that the Ink
Container is empty.
Nominal Setting
Issue 5 April 2006
100 sec
Page 41 - 99
Degassing
The Degassing function can be used to burn in a Print Head, get rid of any air bubbles or unblocking blocked jets
by automatically doing a cycle of Purge and Print functions with a predefined printing frequency. These settings
are part of the Base Unit and are valid for all Print Heads connected to the Inkjet printer.
Degas loops
Amount of degas cycle functions that will be completed.
Nominal Setting
De-aring
2
Un-blocking Jets
5
Degas time
A pause time in seconds between the Purge and the Print function to give the Lung time to de-air the
fresh Ink replaced on the film.
De-aring
260
Nominal Setting
Un-blocking Jets
260
Print Frequency
This is the frequency of the print defined in Hertz.
De-airing
1000Hz
Nominal Setting
Un-blocking Jets
30’000Hz
Print time
Duration in Seconds for the printing phase.
Nominal Setting
Issue 5 April 2006
De-airing
300
Un-blocking Jets
300
Page 42 - 99
Internal Test Print
Wait between Test Print
Duration in Seconds for the time between test prints.
Nominal Setting
2 sec
Clicking the Defaults button will load all the default values for the printhead type that has been
connected to the Base Unit.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 43 - 99
Head Settings
These settings are valid for the individual print heads (1 to 4), the result is that every head can be set with a
different ink type, Fire pulse setting, Meniscus value etc.
Ink Type
Use the drop down arrow to select the ink type being used, either UV or Solvent.
Meniscus Vacuum
The value of the Meniscus Vacuum in Millibar. The Meniscus Vacuum holds back the drops in the
nozzle plate preventing the ink from running out, it is in relation to the height between the nozzle plate
and the Ink level inside the ink reservoir. 1 Millibar is equivalent to 1 cm.
Nominal Setting
GT-Jet 72
7mbar
GT-Jet 64
16mbar
Temperature
Temperature in º Celsius which the Ink will be heated up to. The Temperature is dependant on the
printing viscosity of the Ink being used.
Nominal Setting
Solvent Ink
32° Celcius
UV Ink
40-45° Celcius
Pump Speed (Old Piston Pump)
Period length in Milli seconds that the Ink pump will pump for to completely fill the Reservoir. The
longer the time period the slower the Ink will be pumped. The pumped volume of Ink is dependant on
the above mentioned viscosity of the Ink.
Nominal Setting
Range
Issue 5 April 2006
Solvent Ink
30
20-500
UV Ink
50
20-500
Oil Ink
50
20-500
Page 44 - 99
Pump Speed (New Diaphragm Pump)
PWM Voltage value used to control the Ink pump to fill the Reservoir. The higher the value the higher
the control voltage on the pump and the faster the ink will be pumped. The pumped volume of Ink is
dependant on the viscosity of the Ink. If the Meniscus is not able to reach the set point the pump will
switch over to the first value and will stay at this speed until the reservoir has been filled, thus preventing
foaming and false readings at the level sensor.
Nominal Setting
Range
GT-Jet 72
100
55-250
60
50-250
GT-Jet 64
100
55-250
Eg: 50 = 1V ; 250 = 5V
Fire pulse
Printing Frequency
Displays the frequency of the head in KHz while printing.
Voltage
The value of the Fire pulse signal in volts. The higher the setting of the fire pulse voltage the higher the
stimulation of the Piezo in the pumping chamber. The greater the stimulation of the Piezo elements in
the Pumping chamber the bigger the drop size would get. The voltage value would be dependant on the
Ink being used and the size of drops required.
Nominal Setting
100Volts
Firepulse Length
The length of the firepulse signal in micro seconds. The longer the signal length the longer the piezos
will be stimulated for in the pumping chamber. This would result in a bigger drop size. The signal length
would be dependant on the Ink being used and the size of drops required.
Nominal Setting
Issue 5 April 2006
GT-Jet 72
8 micro sec
GT-Jet 64
6 micro sec
Page 45 - 99
Leading slew rate
Angle of the rising edge of the Firepulse in Volts / Micro Second. The form of the rising edge has no
major influence on the drop formation. The Ink is forced out of the Nozzle plate when the Firepulse
signal falls.
Nominal Setting
80 V/Micro sec
Trailing slew rate
Angle of the falling edge of the Firepulse in Volts / Micro Second. The form of the falling edge has an
influence on the drop formation. The greater the falling edge angle the more Ink is forced out of the
Nozzle plate.
Nominal Setting
80 V/Micro sec
Click on the For All button to copy all of the settings from Fire Pulse 1 to Fire Pulse 2, 3 and 4.
Click on the Default button to set all the default values for the Ink type selected.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 46 - 99
Allows the user to Save the Head Settings. This is where different and individual settings are saved for each
Print Head. For example different ink types have specific Temperatures that they operate at or if you wanted a
darker print you would need to increase the Fire Pulse value.
Allows the user to open the saved values for a specific head being used. This is where you would open and
select a saved values page for a specific Print Head or the nominal values for the different ink type being used.
Allows the user to Save changes made in the Settings in the Settings Dialog.
Allows the user to Exit the Settings Dialog without saving the changes.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 47 - 99
GT Jet 72 and 64 Software Dialog
In the software dialog all the Firmware versions for the different processors have been saved. This dialog allows
you to change the IP Addresses and update to newer versions of Firmware (only on the Expert level). A GT-Jet
with four print heads is operated with 15 processors in total which communicate with each other on the different
cards via a CAN-Bus.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 48 - 99
Rip Settings
Serial No
Serial Number of the RIP-Card (Raster Image Processor), this is allocated by Systegra AG and can not
be changed.
IP Address
IP Address of the RIP Card. The first three sets of numbers must be the same as that of the
Controller/Computer that sends the print data.
Subnet Mask
Address of the Subnet Mask. This must be the same as that of the Controller/Computer that sends the
print data.
Gateway
If the RIP (IP Address) as mentioned above is not on the same Network Segment it will search for the
printer on another Network gateway and will not be able to communicate with the printer.
Allows the user to download a new IP Address, Subnet or Gateway address to the RIP Card. The Printer
must be powered down and restarted for the changes to take effect.
Rip Software
The Rip card is located in a PC-Slot in the Base Unit. On it you will find the Raster Image Processor and the
Field Programmable Gate Array, which is required for the fast preparation of the bitmaps to be printed.
The Tracker card is a daughter card which is plugged onto the RIP card. The Tracker card hosts the Processor
responsible for all the tracking required for the inkjet.
With a combination like this, 512 Jets can be driven by a single RIP card (e.g. 2 GT-Jet 72 print heads), which
may be a max of 4063 Dots in the running direction to the printable surface. In the Base Unit you can add a
maximum of two Rip cards, giving you a total of 1024 Jets (e.g. 4 GT-Jet 72 or 1 GT-Jet 64 print head/s). If for
example two GT-Jet 72’s would be used the maximum distance between the first and last dots would be 4063
encoder pulses, two Rip cards must be used and the print head will be setup as head 1 and 3.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 49 - 99
RIP
Version of firmware that has been loaded onto the Raster Image Processor.
FPGA
Version of firmware that has been loaded onto the Field Programmable Gate Area processor on the RipCard.
Tracker
Version of firmware that has been loaded onto the processor on the Tracking Card.
Allows the user to download a new version of firmware to either the RIP or FPGA. The Printer must be
powered down and restarted for the changes to take effect.
Allows the user to reset the communication to either the RIP or FPGA.
Backplane
Allows the user to view the version of firmware loaded onto the back plane.The Backplane is
mounted to the middle portion of the Base Unit. Located on the board you will find the Processor that is
responsible for the main control functions like Purge, Lung Vacuum etc. The Fire pulse card plugs into the
Backplane via the Snap-in Slot plates that have been provided. A maximum of 4 Fire pulse cards can be plugged
into the Backplane, each of them being for a single GT-Jet 72 print head or 3 of them for 1 GT-Jet 64.
Head
Fire Pulse
You will find the Fire Pulse card at the end of the Print Head Tube, which is mounted onto the Snap-in
Slot plate. The Fire Pulse Card plugs into the Backplane which is located inside the Base Unit. Located
on the Card will find the processor that is responsible for the Fire Pulse Form.
Head PCB
The Head card is located in the print head. On it you will find the processor which is responsible for
tasks like Meniscus Vacuum Regulating, Temperature control, Ink level control etc.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 50 - 99
Status Bar
Displays the status of the download being done to either the RIP or FPGA.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 51 - 99
GT Jet Extended Settings Dialog
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 52 - 99
Overlapping
Allows the selection of 3 different stitching options. The stitching is between pairs of jetting assemblies.
Chessboard
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x
0
0
0
0
0
x
x
x
x
x
Line
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
x
0
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Cut
0
0
0
0
0
x
x
x
x
x
0
0
0
0
0
x
x
x
x
x
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 53 - 99
Head
Low Voltage Fire Pulse
Allows the user to set a Voltage that the print head will print at when Active but not
running production. This is used for Solvent ink only as it is just enough to move the ink in the nozzle orifice
thus preventing the ink from drying on the nozzle surface. If this value is set to high the printer will print
continuously and you will get a fine misty spray of ink coming out of the nozzles.
Nominal Setting
40 V
Ink Full Sensor
The Ink full sensor values are what the sensor reads when at a specific temperature. These values can be altered
slightly but not recommended as it could either cause overfilling of the reservoir or that the ink pump never turns
on.
Full Sensor at 30°C
Full Sensor at 40°C
Full Sensor at 50°C
Full Sensor at 60°C
Full Sensor at 70°C
Full Sensor at 80°C
Full Sensor at 90°C
GT-Jet 72
390
355
310
270
240
210
180
GT-Jet 64
580
510
430
370
350
300
170
Click on the Default button to set all the default values for the specific head and Ink type selected.
Allows the user to Save the changes made in the Extended Settings Dialog.
Allows the user to Exit the Extended Settings Dialog without saving the changes.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 54 - 99
The Individual System components
Base Unit
The Base unit is the basis of every GT-Jet. The cabinet can be built up as a desktop or with the optional
19“mounting system in a 19“Rack with 63 TE width. When designing the GT Jets, attention was given that the
least possible amount of parts and cables be required, and as far as possible all the mechanical elements like the
Boards, Power Supplies, Pneumatics etc. have been integrated into the Control Unit. Due to the BusArchitecture of the various pluggable cards like the CAN-Bus Technology and the variation of single processors a
great deal of the required cables can be integrated onto the boards. With this, an ultra compact and highly flexible
Control Unit is created, which can drive 1024 Jets in total. The 1024 Jets can be integrated into one print head or
can be split between four single print heads.
#
Issue 5 April 2006
Base Unit
Part Number:
11237
Page 55 - 99
Power Supply
Two Power Supplies have been mounted directly onto the Base Unit. The 24V Power Supply is located on the
Front plate, the 180/48V on the floor plate. The Power Supplies are supplied power via the mains switch located
at the back of the Inkjet printer, with two fuses for protection on both phases L and N. They can be operated
with either 110V/60Hz or with 230V/50Hz without any settings required. All other Voltages used on the Inkjet
are supplied directly from the Power Supplies in the Central Control Unit.
#
T10A Fuse L 250V IR 100 A 250V
Part Number:
1010
#
600Watt Power Supply -48V/2.5A; 180V/2.5A
Part Number:
11212
#
500Watt Power Supply 24V/20A
Part Number:
11211
GT-JET 600Watt 180V Power Supply
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 56 - 99
GT-JET 500Watt 24V Power Supply
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 57 - 99
Backplane
The Backplane is mounted to the middle partition of the Base Unit. Located on the board you will find the
Processor that is responsible for the main control functions like Purge, Lung Vacuum etc. The Firepulse card
plugs into the Backplane via the Snap-in Slot plates that have been provided. A maximum of 4 Firepulse cards can
be plugged into the Backplane, each of them being for a single print head.
#
Backplane PCB
Jumper position Normal operation mode
Issue 5 April 2006
Part Number:
11205
Jumper position programming (boot) mode
Page 58 - 99
GT-Jet Backplane PCB
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 59 - 99
External Programming of the Backplane Board
The Backplane Board can be programmed via a standard serial Port on a windows computer. For this a Null
Modem cable and a Flash Program Tool is required.
#
Null Modem Cable (9 Pin)
Part Number:
50072
Programming
CAUTION:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Ensure the printer is turned off.
Using the Null Modem cable, connect the Base Unit serial port to the host computer serial port.
Set the jumper to the Boot position.
Start the Flash Tool and switch the Printer on.
Click on the Reload Monitor button to establish comms. Both indicators should go green.
Select the new Firmware version and down load by clicking on the Program & Verify button.
After an OK status is returned that the programming is complete, switch the printer off, set the jumper
back to the Run position and turn the Printer on again.
The ST10 Flash programming tool is located on all EditorGT controllers that have been delivered with a
GT-Jet Printer or can also be downloaded from the Graph-Tech website under the member section.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 60 - 99
Fire pulse PCB
You will find the Fire Pulse card at the end of the Print Head Tube. It is mounted onto the Snap-in Slot plate
which is then inserted into the Base Unit and plugs onto the Backplane. On the board you will also find the
processor that is responsible for the Fire Pulse Form. This is also where the Ink pump is connected to and
controlled from.
#
Fire pulse PCB (GT-Jet 72)
Part Number:
11216
#
Fire pulse PCB (GT-Jet 64)
Part Number:
11217
Jumper position Normal operation mode
Issue 5 April 2006
Jumper position programming (boot) mode
Page 61 - 99
GT-JET 72 Firepulse PCB
GT-JET 64 Firepulse PCB
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 62 - 99
External Programming of the Fire pulse Board
The Fire Pulse card can be programmed via a Standard serial Port of a Windows computer. To do this the
corresponding programming cable and Flash Program Tool is required.
#
Fire pulse/Tracker Programming Cable
Part Number:
50073
Programming
CAUTION:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Ensure the printer is turned off for at least 30 seconds before removing the card/s!
Remove the Fire pulse card, then connect the programming cable to the Fire pulse board (Pin-1 of the
cable on Pin-1 of the Board).
With the Programming cable, connect the Null Modem cable to the serial port of the host computer.
Set the programming jumper to the Boot position and refit the card, then start the Flash Tool and switch
on the Inkjet.
Click on the Reload Monitor button to establish comms. Both indicators should go green.
Select the new Firmware version and download it by clicking on the Program & Verify button.
After an OK status is returned that the programming is complete, switch the printer off. Set the jumper
back to the Run position and turn the printer back on.
The ST10 Flash programming tool is located on all EditorGT controllers that have been delivered with a
GT-Jet Printer or can also be downloaded from the Graph-Tech website under the member section.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 63 - 99
GT-Jet 72 Head PCB
The Head card is located in the print head itself. Located on the board you will find the processor which is
responsible for tasks like Meniscus Vacuum Regulating, Temperate control, Ink level control etc. The board is
part of the print head were the specific values regarding that head are stored (Running hours etc.). The board can
only be reset when refurbished in the workshop.
#
Issue 5 April 2006
Head PCB (GT-Jet 72)
Part Number:
11215
Page 64 - 99
GT-JET 72 Head PCB
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 65 - 99
GT-Jet 64 Head PCB
The Head card is located in the print head itself. Located on the board you will find the processor which is
responsible for tasks like Meniscus Vacuum Regulating, Temperate control, Ink level control etc. The board is
part of the print head were the specific values regarding that head are stored (Running hours etc.). The board can
only be reset when refurbished in the workshop.
Head PCB (GT-Jet64)
Part Number:
Menisc us Pump
Reservoir Heater
Menisc us
Program ming Cable
CAN
Heater JA
Heater Reservoir
Head Alive
Power + 5V
Power + 12V
11229
Purge
3
2
1
Res. Therm istor
Purge Button
Button LED
LOIS
Res. Therm istor
Menisc us Sensor
Reservoir Heater
JA 2
JA 3
JA 4
JA Thermistor
JA Heater
JA 6
JA 5
JA Heater
JA Therm istor
JA 1
Menisc us Sensor
#
JA 6
GT-JET 64 Head PCB
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 66 - 99
External Programming of the Head Board
The Head Board can be programmed via a Standard serial Port of a Windows computer. For this the
corresponding Programming cable and the Flash Programming Tool is required.
#
Head Programming Cable
Part Number:
11236
Programming
CAUTION:
•
•
•
•
•
Ensure the printer is switched off.
Using the Programming cable, connect the print head serial port to the host computer serial port.
Start the Flash Tool.
Select the new Firmware version and start by clicking on the Full Operation Download button.
Switch the printer on, the download will begin automatically.
After a Normal End status is returned that the programming is complete, switch the printer off, remove
the cable and switch the printer on again.
The Fujitsu Flash programming tool is located on all EditorGT controllers that have been delivered with a
GT-Jet Printer or can also be downloaded from the Graph-Tech website under the member section.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 67 - 99
Rip – Tracker PCB
The Rip card is located in a PC-Slot in the Central Control Unit. On it you will find the Raster Image Processor
and the Field Programmable Gate Array, which is required for the fast preparation of the bitmaps to be printed.
The Tracker card is a daughter card which is plugged onto the RIP card. The Tracker card hosts the Processor
responsible for all the tracking required for the inkjet.
With a combination like this, 512 Jets can be driven by a single RIP card (e.g. 2 GT-Jet 72 print heads), which
may be a max of 4063 Dots in the running direction to the printable surface. In the Central Control Unit you can
add a maximum of two Rip cards, giving you a total of 1024 Jets (e.g. 4 GT-Jet 72 print heads or 1 GT-Jet 64
print head). If for example two GT-Jet 72’s would be used the maximum distance between the first and last dots
would be 4063 encoder pulses, two Rip cards must be used and the print head will be setup as head 1 and 3.
•
Maximum amount of Dots per Rip - Tracker
=
512
•
Maximum amount of Dots per Control Unit
=
1024
•
Maximum Distance of Print head 1 2 or 3 4 =
4063 Pulses
•
Maximum Distance of Print head 1 3 or 2 4 =
32 Meters
Per Tracker (512 Jets or 2 GT-Jet 72 print heads) an Encoder and a Print Go are supported. This means that per
central control unit a max of two independent lines can be tracked.
•
Maximum amount of conveyor lines per Rip - Tracker
=
1
•
Maximum amount conveyor lines per Control Unit
=
2
An example calculation of the maximum distance between Print Heads
Resolution required:
175 dpi vertical and 213 dpi horizontal
Label length of the Print head:
100mm (100/25.4)*213 = 839 Dots
Maximum Distance from the first to the last Dot:
4063 / 213 = 19.075“ (*25.4 = 484 mm)
Maximum Distance between Print Head 1 and 2 or 3 and 4: 484mm – 100 mm = 384mm
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 68 - 99
#
Rip PCB
Part Number:
11203
GT-JET RIP PCB
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 69 - 99
#
Issue 5 April 2006
Tracker PCB
Part Number:
11204
Page 70 - 99
Connections
Label
Function
Type
serial
Serial interface
DSub 9 pole male
100Base-Tx Ethernet interface
RJ45
Backplane interconnection
HDSub 44 pole female
Print Go
Encoder
Print confirmation
RJ45
CAN
CAN interface
DSub 9 pole female
Synch
Multiple Tracker Synchronisation
Harting Header
TCP/IP
Backplane
Trigger
Serial Connector
DSub 9 pole male.
Pin
Issue 5 April 2006
Function
2
RxD
3
TxD
5
GND
7
RTS
8
CTS
Page 71 - 99
Trigger Connector
Pin
Function
1
Motion A
2
Motion B
3
Print Go
4
Print confirmation.
5
0 Signal
6
0V
7
VCC
8
0V
Jumper Positions VCC
+12V
+24V
External Power supplied (+10…
+30V)
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 72 - 99
CAN Connector
Pin
Function
2
CAN Low
3
0V
5
Shield
6
0V
7
CAN High
9
VCC
Jumper Positions VCC
+12V
+24V
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 73 - 99
Serial Connector for programming
RIP 2 or changing or viewing the
IP Address
Inkjet connector for
RIP 2 (Print-go,
Motion and Print
done signals)
Inkjet connector for
RIP 1 (Print-go,
Motion and Print
done signals)
Serial Connector for programming
RIP 1 or changing or viewing the
IP Address
RIP 1 TCP/IP
Connection
RIP 2 TCP/IP
Connection
RIP 1 Data
Connector
RIP 2 Data
Connector
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 74 - 99
External Programming of the Tracker Card
Jumper Position for normal running
Jumper Position for Programming mode
The Tracker Card can be programmed via a Standard serial Port on a Windows based Computer. You will need
the following Programming cable and Flash Program Tool to complete this.
#
Firepulse/Tracker Programming Cable
Issue 5 April 2006
Part Number:
11235
Page 75 - 99
Programming
CAUTION:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Ensure the printer is switched off.
Connect the Programming cable to the Tracker board (Pin 1 on the cable to Pin 1 on the board).
Connect the Programming cable to a Null Modem cable and then to the serial port of the host
computer.
Set the jumpers to the Boot position, start the Flash program tool and turn on the printer.
Click on the Reload Monitor button to establish comms. Both indicators should go green.
Select the new Firmware version and start down loading by selecting the Program & Verify button.
Once completed and the program verifies with an OK status, turn the printer off, set the jumper back to
the Run position and turn the printer on.
The ST10 Flash programming tool is located on all EditorGT controllers that have been delivered with a
GT-Jet Printer or can also be downloaded from the Graph-Tech website under the member section.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 76 - 99
Sysloader
The Sysloader program tool can be used to program or verify the RIP cards Software and or IP Address via a
Standard serial Port of a Windows computer. To do this the corresponding programming cable and Sysloader
Program Tool are required.
#
Null Modem Serial Cable (9 Pin)
Issue 5 April 2006
Part Number:
50072
Page 77 - 99
Programming
CAUTION:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Ensure the printer is switched off.
Connect the Null Modem cable to the RIP Cards serial connector.
Connect the other end of the Null Modem cable to the serial port of the host computer.
Start the Sysloader tool and turn on the printer.
Wait until the serial number has been read from the RIP Card, this can take up to 1 minute.
Select the new Firmware version or IP Address and start downloading by clicking on the download
button.
The status of the download can be viewed by looking at the download bar, once complete the Sysloader
will verify with an OK status.
When complete turn the printer off and unplug the Null Modem cable.
Restart the printer for normal operation.
The Sysloader programming tool is located on all EditorGT controllers that have been delivered with a
GT-Jet Printer or can also be downloaded from the Graph-Tech website under the member section.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 78 - 99
Pneumatic and Hydraulics
The main or base Pneumatic system for the GT-Jet printer as shown in the diagram below is common and
required for all the print heads that are connected to the GT-Jet printer. This is all situated in the Base Unit. Each
print heads pneumatics is divided into a specific module that is only activated when the head has been plugged
into the Base Unit.
Pneumatic Module of the Base Unit
The Pneumatic Module of the Base Unit comprises of the pressure vacuum pump (-850 to 1000m mbar) and two
Solenoids. The Pneumatic module is used for the creation of the Lung Vacuum, the Purge Pressure. These
functions are controlled from the processor on the Backplane card. The fresh air filter is the only serviceable part
of the unit and will need replacement. This filter will need to be replaced at least once per year. If the Pneumatic
module does not function correctly the whole unit will need to be replaced.
#
Inline Lung Vacuum Filter
Part Number:
90801
#
Central Pneumatic Module
Part Number:
11209
Lung and Purge
Shutoff coupling head1
Lung and Purge
Shutoff coupling head2
Lung and Purge
Shutoff coupling head3
Lung and Purge
Shutoff coupling head4
Lung Sensor 0-1bar
Purge Sensor 0-1 bar
B1: Lung Solenoid
B2: Purge Solenoid
Vacuum and Pressure Pump
- 850 … + 1000 mbar
Tube Colors:
Issue 5 April 2006
Fresh air filter
•
blue
=
Vacuum (Lung)
•
red
=
Pressure (Purge)
Page 79 - 99
GT-JET Pneumatics Assembly
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 80 - 99
Printhead Pneumatics and Hydraulics
The Print head Pneumatics and Hydraulics consists mainly of the Meniscus and the Ink supply to the print head
module. These functions are driven by the processors on the head and the fire pulse cards. The Ink Stopper is the
only part the needs to be replaced when for example the print head is bumped during usage. Should the head
Pneumatics or the Ink supply not be functioning properly, the complete print head is exchanged and sent for
repairs to the Service centre.
Meniscus Trap Filter
#
Part Number:
90802
Flow check valve
Lung Sensor 0-20 mbar
Meniscus Pump
0-20 mbar
Lung Vacuum max. -850mbar
b
Meniscus
Vacuum max. -20mbar
b
Ink Level
Reservoir Temperature
Jetting Assembly Temperature
H1: Meniscus-Purge Solenoid Valve
H2: Meniscus Locking Solenoid Valve
Ink Shutoff coupling from the Ink container
Lung and Purge
Shutoff coupling
on the Firepulse board
Issue 5 April 2006
Ink Pump
0-4 Liters / hour
Page 81 - 99
Fluids Supply
The Ink containers can be put into the optional Ink Rack quickly and easily. The Ink supply connectors used on
the Ink system are the CPC quick connect/disconnect puncture seal connectors which allow for a clean
replacement of the Ink container.
Ink
Shuttoff coupling
Ink Container for
Reservoir 1
Ink Container for
Reservoir 2
Ink Container for
Reservoir 3
Ink Container for
Reservoir 4
* Please note that if the incorrect fluids are used the system could become damaged beyond repair!
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 82 - 99
Enclosure Options
The GT-Jet can be operated without any additional casings. For protection against dust and for optimal coverage
of the Ink Containers the following casings are available:
GT-Jet Stand-Alone
The GT-Jet Stand-Alone houses the GT-Jet with up to four GT-Jet 72 or One GT-Jet 64 Print head/s and the
Ink Supply for up to four Ink Holders. The Print Head Tubes and all the required cables are sealed with a special
rubber Seal out of the Stand-Alone, which has a density of up to IP 54.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 83 - 99
GT-Jet Rack
The MIC-GT is a complete printing system that contains the GT-Jet with up to four GT-Jet 72 or One GT-Jet
64 Print head/s, the Production line controller and the Ink Supply. The control of the system is performed via the
Touch Screen, keyboard and Trackball. The complete system is IP 64 Rated and the Touch TFT Display is
protected with a Plexi glass cover. The system is delivered with all the cables required for a quick and easy
installation and is ready for production in the quickest of time.
Touch Screen TFT
Trackball mouse
Keyboard
GT-Jet 72 / 64
Ink rack for up to 4 Ink
Containers
Issue 5 April 2006
MIC-GT Controller
Page 84 - 99
Spare parts list
#
#
#
Wash Bottle
Cleaning Tray
Cleaning kit Incl. wipes, tray and wash bottle
Part Number:
Part Number:
Part Number:
90001
90003
90007
#
Wipes GT-Jet 72
Part Number:
90100
#
Wipes GT-Jet 64
Part Number:
90101
#
19“ Height Mounting Rack
Part Number:
11237
#
250V/10A Fuse
Part Number:
1010
#
600Watt Power Supply -48V/2.5A; 180V/2.5A
Part Number:
11212
#
500Watt Power Supply 24V/20A
Part Number:
11211
#
Backplane PCB
Part Number:
11205
#
Null Modem Cable
Part Number:
50072
#
Firepulse PCB Gt-Jet 72
Part Number:
11216
#
Firepulse PCB Gt-Jet 64
Part Number:
11217
#
Firepulse/Tracker Programming Cable
Part Number:
11235
#
Head Programming Cable
Part Number:
11236
#
Rip PCB
Part Number:
11203
#
Tracker PCB
Part Number:
11204
#
Inline Lung Vacuum Filter
Part Number:
90801
#
Central Pneumatic Module
Part Number:
11209
#
Fluid Stopper Filter meniscus
Part Number:
90802
#
Ink Filter Pall 10 Micron
Part Number:
90800
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 85 - 99
Printing a Test Print
On the GT-Jet dialog screen we have a function were you are able to print a test print. By printing this test print
you are able to verify that the head has been set to the correct angle, the head has been aligned correctly or if
there are any missing jets.
By clicking on the Test button you are able to run the production line and the GT-Jet Printer will then print the
test print onto the product. The following test image will then be printed. The alignment of the head as indicated
from the test image below shows that the alignment of the head is good as all the steps are even and that the
vertical lines are straight and in one line with no missing jets.
GT-Jet 72 Test Pattern
The test print above has been printed at 90 x 90 dpi.
Each block indicates a set of 10 jets and each horizontal step indicates a single jet. If you look at the test image
above there are 25 blocks with 10 jets in each which equals 250 jets. Then there is the 26th block that has only 6
jets giving you a total of 256 jets per GT-Jet 72 head.
Good head Alignment.
All steps are evenly spaced.
All vertical lines are straight and a single line.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 86 - 99
GT-Jet 64 Test Pattern
Jetting Assemblies 1 and 2
Jetting Assemblies 3 and 4
Jetting Assemblies 5 and 6
The arrows indicate the stitching between jetting assembly modules.
The GT-Jet 64 uses 3 pairs of jetting assemblies. Each pair of jetting assemblies prints interlaced to each other. To
achieve a good print quality, the angle of the head and the distances between the jetting assemblies will have to be
adjusted. The mechanical alignment of the head and mounting bracket would need to be done first and then the
head distances between jetting assemblies can be adjusted on the GT-Jet online menu as shown below.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 87 - 99
Mechanical Alignment
If the Encoder pulses have been setup correctly you are able to click on the Default button and it will then enter
in all the correct distances between jetting assemblies. Print a test print to verify that the mechanical alignment is
correct. You might need to set the head alignment by adjusting the angle of the head on the mounting bracket.
This needs to be done first to ensure that all the horizontal steps are even across the whole head as per the image
below.
Good head-alignment.
The angle is correct.
All steps are evenly spaced.
The angle is slightly off.
The steps are not even.
The angle that is further offset.
The steps between each vertical line
are not even.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 88 - 99
Software Alignment
With this dialog you are able to enable or disable jetting assemblies to adjust the alignment correctly. Normally
you would just enable jetting assemblies 1 and 2 and align them correctly, once they are done you can add one at
a time and align it with the previous jetting assembly. If the software alignment is done correctly you will notice
that all the vertical lines are straight and that they are a single line of interlaced drops. Just remember that all the
distances are measured in micrometer. Eg .. 25234 micrometer is equal to 25.234mm.
Good head Alignment.
Distances between Jetting Assemblies are correct.
All vertical lines are straight and a single line.
The distance between a pair of Jetting Assemblies is incorrect.
The distances between each pair is correct
but the distance between the pairs is offset.
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 89 - 99
Drawings
GT-Jet 72 Head Drawing
GT-Jet 64 Head Drawing
GT-Jet Base Unit Drawing
GT-Jet Stand Alone Drawing
GT-Jet Rack Drawing
GT-Jet 72 Head Mounting and Stitching 1-2 Drawing
GT-Jet 64 Head Mounting and Stitching 1-2 Drawing
GT-Jet 64 Head Mounting and Stitching 3-4 Drawing
Issue 5 April 2006
Page 90 - 99
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Issue 5 April 2006
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