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5 Common CIJ Coding Machine Problems and How to Fix Them

5 Common CIJ Coding Machine Problems and How to Fix Them

Sep 04, 2026

Introduction

Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) coding machines are essential equipment in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and industrial packaging lines. Like any precision equipment, they can develop issues that affect print quality and production efficiency.

Understanding the most common CIJ machine problems and knowing how to fix them can save you time, reduce downtime, and avoid costly service calls.

In this guide, we cover the five most common CIJ coding machine problems and provide practical, step-by-step solutions you can apply right away.

 

Problem 1 — Poor or Fading Print Quality

What It Looks Like

1. Print appears faint, broken, or inconsistent

2. Letters or codes are difficult to read

3. Print quality changes during production

Common Causes

1. Low ink level in the ink cartridge

2. Clogged or partially blocked nozzle

3. Incorrect ink viscosity

4. Contaminated ink or make-up solution

How to Fix

1. Check and refill the ink cartridge if the ink level is low.

2. Run the nozzle cleaning cycle on your machine.

3. Verify you are using the correct ink and make-up solution for your machine model.

4. Replace contaminated ink with fresh, compatible ink.

5. If the problem persists, gently clean the nozzle with a lint-free cloth and approved cleaning solution.

 

Problem 2 — Ink Leaks or Drips

What It Looks Like

1. Ink accumulates around the printhead or cartridge

2. Ink drips onto products or the production line

3. Wet spots appear on printed materials

Common Causes

1. Loose cartridge or printhead connection

2. Overfilled ink cartridge

3. Damaged seals or gaskets

4. Worn or damaged printhead components

How to Fix

1. Ensure the cartridge and printhead are securely locked in place.

2. Do not overfill the ink cartridge — leave space at the top.

3. Inspect and replace any damaged seals or gaskets.

4. If leaks persist, check the printhead for wear and consider replacement parts.

 

Problem 3 — Machine Won't Print or Prints Intermittently

What It Looks Like

1. Machine stops printing during production

2. Printing starts and stops unexpectedly

3. Machine displays an error or warning message

Common Causes

1. Ink or make-up solution level is critically low

2. Clogged nozzle or printhead

3. Sensor or detection system failure

4. Incorrect machine settings

How to Fix

1. Refill ink and make-up solution to proper levels.

2. Run the cleaning cycle to clear any blockage.

3. Check machine settings and reset to factory defaults if needed.

4. Inspect sensors and clean them if dirty.

5. If the error persists, consult your machine manual or contact technical support.

 

Problem 4 — Print Quality Is Good but Codes Fade Quickly

What It Looks Like

1. Codes are clear initially but fade or smear shortly after printing

2. Print marks disappear during handling or storage

3. Codes are not durable on the product surface

Common Causes

1. Incorrect ink type for the substrate material

2. Ink not fully cured or dried

3. Incompatible ink and surface combination

4. Environmental factors such as humidity or heat

How to Fix

1. Select the appropriate ink for your specific substrate (plastic, metal, coated, or glass).

2. Ensure adequate drying time before products are handled.

3. Use specialty inks for difficult surfaces like non-porous plastics or oily materials.

4. Consider environmental conditions in your production area.

 

Problem 5 — Excessive Ink Consumption or Frequent Refills

What It Looks Like

1. Ink runs out faster than expected

2. Frequent cartridge refills or replacements

3. Higher consumable costs than anticipated

Common Causes

1. Incorrect ink settings or viscosity

2. Excessive cleaning cycles

3. Leaks or evaporation

4. Using incompatible ink that wastes through the system

How to Fix

1. Verify machine settings match the recommended values for your ink.

2. Reduce unnecessary cleaning cycles when print quality is stable.

3. Check for and fix any ink leaks.

4. Use high-quality compatible ink that is stable and consistent, reducing waste.

 

This is precisely the original intention of the Kingsfang brand: we not only provide a full range of high-precision inkjet printers covering CIJ, DOD, and UV technologies, but also possess over 10 years of customized service experience across various industries (electronic components, rubber gloves, food and pharmaceuticals, etc.). From needs assessment to equipment commissioning, from ink formula matching to 24-hour after-sales support, KSF's professional team is always by your side and your customer's side.

 

 contact the KSF consulting team and let us work together to create a "tailor-made" inkjet printing solution for your customers, using precise and stable inkjet technology to help their products stand out in the market! KSF, together with you, makes every inkjet print a catalyst for business growth.

 

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