TL;DR
Blanket ghosting is a faint previous-image repeat on the current output, caused by residual toner on the blanket. Run a blanket cleaning cycle and verify the blanket wiper is functioning correctly.
What you might see
- faint repeat of previous image visible on current output
- ghost image correlating to the previous sheet layout
- ghosting worse after a long run on the same image
- blanket surface showing residual color
Likely causes
Residual ElectroInk on the intermediate transfer blanket not fully removed by the wiper
Blanket wiper blade worn or misaligned leaving a thin ink film
Blanket surface degraded, retaining ink in micro-pores
Ink solvent level low, reducing ElectroInk fluidity and transfer efficiency
Required tools
- Press management software access
- Replacement wiper blade
- Solvent refill (if needed)
Safety first
- The intermediate transfer blanket operates at elevated temperature. Allow cool-down before opening access panels.
- ElectroInk solvent is flammable. Store and handle per the safety data sheet. Use nitrile gloves.
Procedure
- 1
Initiate the blanket cleaning cycle from the press management menu. Allow the full cycle to complete.[1]
- 2
Run a diagnostic print after the cleaning cycle. If ghosting persists, the wiper or blanket condition is the likely cause.
- 3
Inspect the blanket wiper blade through the press service panel for wear, cracks, or misalignment. A worn or tilted wiper leaves a residual ink film.[1]
- 4
Replace the wiper blade if wear is visible. Follow the press service documentation for wiper installation and angular setting.
- 5
Inspect the blanket surface for scoring, pitting, or degradation. Blanket surface degradation increases with total image impressions.
- 6
Check the ink solvent level in the solvent reservoir. Low solvent reduces ink fluidity and increases residual on the blanket.
- 7
If ghosting persists after wiper replacement and solvent top-up, schedule a blanket replacement per the press service documentation.
Warning: The intermediate transfer blanket cylinder is heated. Allow the press to cool before opening the blanket access panel.
Sources
HP HP Indigo 7K / 100K Digital Press general technical documentation, HP
Digital press blanket maintenance and ghosting diagnostics, general digital printing practice (general)
More guides for HP HP Indigo 7K / 100K
How to diagnose low image density on an HP Indigo 7K Digital Press
Low image density on an HP Indigo press usually points to low ink (ElectroInk) concentration or a degraded photo imaging plate (PIP). Check ink concentration first, then PIP condition.
How to clear a paper jam in the fuser of an HP Indigo 100K Digital Press
Fuser jams on digital presses require a careful manual clear following the press jam-clearing procedure. Forcing the sheet out risks fuser damage. Follow the step-by-step jam-release sequence.
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