How Do Solid Ink Printers Work?

Last Updated on August 14, 2023 by Christian Ralph

Despite being invented almost 30 years ago and first brought to market in 1991, solid printer inks are still a relatively unknown quantity for many people. The unusual design of the inks means many people view them with a certain level of apprehension.

However, there are a number of benefits to the technology including a low cost of ownership and the low level of wastage which occurs.

Here we detail how the solid inks actually work, to dispel some of the myths and misunderstandings surrounding the technology.
The first thing to remember is that solid inks can only be used in solid ink printers – so there’s no point buying the inks and trying to force them into your laser or inkjet printer. Currently, XEROX are the only major manufacturer of solid ink prints – giving them something of a monopoly over the market.

Replacement solid inks fit into the printer in a similar manner to traditional ink cartridges, simply fitting into a printer tray. However, the solid nature of the ink means it does not need to be encased in protective packaging. The sticks are completely non-toxic and safe to handle.

The solid ink sticks traditionally follow the CMYK model, available in cyan, magenta, yellow and key (black).

When printing, a solid ink printer will heat up and melt the sticks of ink. The intelligent CPU system will determine the amount of each tone which is required for the job – ensuring no ink is wasted during the process. The ink is then applied to the paper in a requested pattern via the Printhead nozzles – in a similar manner to inkjet printers.

The solid ink freezes almost as soon as it hits the paper – removing the risk that the ink may run or smudge during the printing process. The ink is bound to the surface of the paper – sitting perfectly atop all paper types.

Advantages of Solid Ink Printing

XEROX enthuse that there are a number of benefits to solid ink printing over laser and inkjet printing. These include:

– Reduced casing wastage
– Bright, vibrant colours
– Reduced ink wastage
– The ability to print on a wide range of different materials
– Easier Storage (Solid ink sticks can easily be stored in a desk drawer)

If this short guide has whetted your appetite for a solid ink printer, we stock a wide selection in our Xerox range, as well replacement solid ink sticks for all our Xerox solid ink printers.

Alternatively, if you’re still unsure about making the leap to solid ink technology, the Printerland store is full of laser and inkjet models from all of the top manufacturers and brands. Check out our store, here, or call our dedicated team on 0800 840 1992 for our full range of exclusive deals.