Continuous inkjet (CIJ) printers, typically used for coding applications, have historically required specially trained operators and skilled service technicians to keep them up and running. Keyence is addressing that pain point with its new, self-troubleshooting MK-G Series CIJ printer. The device uses proprietary sensor technologies to perform diagnostics and troubleshooting and features a self-cleaning printhead.
User input is not needed to diagnose and maintain the printer, and operators do not need specialized skills to operate or maintain it. The operator places the printhead in the printer’s MK Dock during startup or if a problem occurs, and the printer automatically performs diagnostics and troubleshooting, followed by corrective maintenance. According to the company, the printer can automatically recover from 97% of issues without operator interaction.
The printer automatically determines whether a cleaning is due and, if so, selects the appropriate cleaning method. Because the printer only self-cleans when necessary and uses the minimum volume of solvent for cleaning, maintenance costs are reduced.
A self-cleaning printhead, the Autoshower, adds another layer of autonomy to the printer while protecting workers from exposure to cleaning chemicals. Benefits of the combined technologies include reduced downtime, cost of service, skilled labor requirements, and hazardous chemical exposure.
Keyence will be demonstrating the MK-G Series printer at WestPack 2021 (Anaheim, CA; August 10-12), Booth 5515.
