Dynamic Supply Knowledge Series | Volume 1 | Chapter 9
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Maintenance, Uptime, and Support
DTF printers are production machines. White ink, printheads, dampers, pumps, capping stations, wipers, film paths, powder systems, curing equipment, filters, software, and moving parts all require attention.
A buyer does not need to become a technician before purchasing, but should understand the maintenance commitment before signing the order.
Ask Before You Buy
- What daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance is required?
- How long does routine maintenance normally take?
- What happens if the printer will sit idle?
- Which maintenance parts are considered consumables?
- What are the replacement costs of printheads, dampers, caps, pumps, filters, and other common parts?
- Which parts are stocked domestically?
- What maintenance is required to preserve warranty coverage?
- What remote and on-site service options are available?
- What is the escalation path when production is down?
Maintenance Rule: Maintenance is part of the cost of production. A system that is inexpensive to buy but difficult to keep running may be the more expensive system to own.
← Previous: Understanding the Total Cost of Ownership | DTF Guide Contents | Next: Common Buying Mistakes →