Cutting Down on Plotter Repair Costs with Preventative Care
Plotter printers are vital for printing large-format architectural, engineering, and construction drawings. Like any specialized equipment, they can experience issues over time. Plotter repairs tend to be expensive, often requiring specially trained technicians. That’s why implementing basic preventative maintenance is important for minimizing repair costs. This article outlines key plotter care tasks that enhance reliability and reduce downtime.
Follow Manufacturer Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Most plotters come with recommended maintenance schedules from the manufacturer. This typically involves routine cleaning and parts replacement timelines. For example, they are replacing worn rollers and gaskets on a defined schedule. Follow the guidelines faithfully and replace components before they wear out completely and cause damage. Think of it as essential preventative medicine for your plotter.
Clean and Lubricate Components
Paper dust, ink overspray, and general office dirt build up rapidly on plotter components. Set reminders to regularly wipe down the printer carriage, field lens, media path, sensors, and guides using manufacturer-approved cleaners. Also lubricate parts like rail systems, drive gears, and motors with special lubricants made for plotters. This cleaning inhibits abrasive dust from degrading parts.
Inspect Ribbons and Pens Frequently
If your plotter uses pens or ink ribbon cartridges, regularly check them for issues like worn tips or ink distribution problems. Spotting and replacing defective pens/ribbons before they cause printing defects saves your staff reformatting and reprinting time later. Make pen/ribbon inspection part of typical maintenance workflows.
Conclusion
Plotters are complex electromechanical systems with many moving parts prone to gradual wear and tear over the thousands of yards of paper they typically process yearly. While their durable construction allows them to operate reliably for years, scheduled maintenance is vital for reducing malfunctions leading to expensive certified technician repairs. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines on maintenance schedules and component replacement, vigilant cleaning, lubrication, and pen/ribbon inspection can dramatically cut unforeseen downtime and keep your plotter printing accurately year after year. Think preventatively, and your business will save significantly on repairs!
Ensure the longevity of your plotter printer and save on costly repairs by adopting a proactive approach to maintenance. Contact Diamondsource Manchester for expert plotter care services. Follow manufacturer-recommended schedules, clean and lubricate components regularly, and inspect ribbons and pens to keep your plotter operating at its best. Don’t wait for breakdowns — invest in preventative care today and optimize your plotter’s performance for years to come!
