Automatic startup sequence for the solvent ink printing system

Abstract

An automatic startup sequence for an ink jet print station using solvent based ink entails introducing a flushing fluid to the drop generator using the flushing fluid pump at a drive level and a flushing pressure that enables flushing fluid to flow through the jet array at a flow rate adequate to permit the catcher assembly to extract the flushing fluid; engaging the ink pump; and increasing the pressure of the flushing fluid from the initial pressure. The increased pressure is high enough for stable drop formation and drop deflection from the jet array and low enough to extract drops from the catcher, and to permit flushing fluid to flow freely through the catcher. The method ends by simultaneously opening the ink supply valve and closing the flushing fluid valve permitting ink to flow into the drop generator; and then stopping the flow of the flushing fluid.