How to remove ink from parts - Case Study
Ink contamination on parts can cause major issues in various industries, affecting product quality, performance and productivity. It is important to have an effective cleaning process in place to remove ink residue from contaminated components.
Customers Criteria: The customer required the components to be free from all contamination. This criterion is common in various industries, including medical, automotive and aerospace, where components must meet strict cleanliness standards to ensure product reliability and performance.
Material: Various materials, including plastic, metal and electronics. The cleaning process had to be gentle enough to avoid damage to the components, while still being effective in removing ink residue.
Component: The components to be cleaned were dirty ink tank shells, pumps and TIC boards. Ink contamination on TIC boards can cause issues with electrical conductivity, which can affect their performance. Dirty ink tank shells and pumps can also lead to ink contamination of the final product.
| Ultrasonic Cleaner | Cleaning Fluid | Temperature(s) | Concentration |
|---|---|---|---|
| MI40 Ultrasonic | HP imaging Oil | No heat, room temperature | 100% |
| Versa 120 Ultrasonic | Galvex 18.01 | 50°C | 5% |
| Versa 120 Rinse | Tap water | 50°C | 100% |
| Versa 120 Rinse | DI Water | 50°C | 100% |
| Versa 120 Dryer | N/A | 50°C | N/A |
Process for removing ink:
The process for removing ink involved the use of an MI40 ultrasonic tank diluted with 100% concentration of HP imaging oil. The oil was tested and showed good cavitation. The oil was not heated as this posed a potential hazard. The TIC board was placed in the basket and cleaned for a cycle time of 20 minutes in the imaging oil. The clear housing was then cleaned using the same process as the TIC board. Upon inspection, both the board and the housing showed ink residue remaining. Therefore, both parts were cleaned using the aqueous process using Galvex 18.01 cleaning fluid at a 5% concentration for 10 minutes followed by a tap water rinse, DI water rinse and a hot air dry. The tanks were filled to weir level so both the board and the housing were positioned in the basket standing up and fully submerged.
Removing ink from contaminated components is a critical process in various industries. The cleaning process must be gentle enough to avoid damage to the components while still being effective in removing ink residue. In this case study, we have discussed the customer's criteria, material, components and the process for removing ink from dirty ink tank shells, pumps and TIC boards. By following an effective cleaning process, components can be free from all contamination, ensuring product reliability and performance.
Before ink is removed
After ink is removed
