• printhead

How to Select a Good Used Seiko RC1536 Printhead?

Seiko RC1536M printhead and Seiko RC1536L

Key Considerations for a Used Seiko RC1536 Printhead

Selecting a good used printhead is critical. Focus on these non-negotiable points:

  1. Nozzle Test Print: This is the most important step. Always demand a recent, high-quality nozzle test print from the machine it was just removed from. The pattern must be perfect: solid, continuous lines with no gaps (clogs), no misdirection (wavy lines), and no fading.
  2. Physical Inspection: Examine the gold nozzle plate under a bright light. Absolutely no scratches, dents, or cracks. Even a tiny scratch will cause ink to wick across the plate and fail. Check for corrosion on the contacts or plate.
  3. Usage History: Ask two key questions:
    • “What ink was used?” (e.g., UV, solvent, water-based). Avoid heads used with incompatible inks.
    • “How many printing hours does it have?” A head with over 1,000-1,500 hours is near the end of its life.
  4. Seller Reputation: Buy from a specialized supplier or technician who offers a short warranty (e.g., 30 days). Avoid sellers who cannot provide a test print or answer basic questions.

In short: Never buy without a perfect nozzle test print and a clean, undamaged nozzle plate.


Post time: Sep-01-2025