Cleaning the Vacuum Module

Keeping NOVA’s vacuum module clean ensures reliable vacuum holding and helps your sheet substrates lie perfectly flat during printing.

When to Clean the Vacuum Module

Clean the vacuum module:

• Before every print session – do a quick visual check and light clean if you see any dust, debris, or fingerprints.

• Immediately if ink gets on the vacuum plate.

Steps for Routine Cleaning (Dust & Debris)

Step 1: Prepare NOVA and your workspace

• Ensure the vacuum is off.

• Remove any substrate from the vacuum plate.

Step 2: Dry clean the surface

• Use a low-lint wipe or lint-free cloth to gently wipe the entire surface of the vacuum plate.

• Wipe in one direction instead of scrubbing back and forth to avoid dragging debris across the surface.

Step 3: Use compressed air (optional)

• If available, use dry, oil-free compressed air to blow loose dust and debris off the vacuum plate.

• Hold the nozzle a short distance above the plate and blow air at a shallow angle across the surface.

Step 4: Inspect the vacuum plate

• Confirm there is no visible debris and the surface looks clean and uniform.

What if I Get Ink on My Vacuum Module?

If ink or paste gets on the vacuum module, clean it as soon as possible to prevent it from drying and affecting vacuum performance.

Step 1: Remove excess material

• Gently blot any wet ink with a low‑lint wipe or paper towel.

• Avoid spreading the ink over a larger area or pushing it into the vacuum holes.

Step 2: Apply solvent to a wipe (not directly to the plate)

Be sure not to apply any solvents directly to the vacuum bed (including isopropyl alcohol). Liquids can seep into the pores and may delaminate the titanium top.

• Lightly dampen a low‑lint wipe with isopropyl alcohol (IPA).

• The wipe should be moist, not dripping.

Step 3: Wipe the vacuum plate

• Gently wipe the affected area of the vacuum plate with the IPA‑dampened wipe.

• Use fresh sections of the wipe (or a new wipe) until no visible ink remains.

Step 4: Dry and re‑inspect

• Wipe the area again with a dry, low‑lint wipe.

• Allow any remaining solvent to evaporate fully before resuming printing.

• Confirm the surface is clean, dry, and free of residue.

There may be residual ink staining left on the vacuum plate after cleaning. This should not impact the overall performance of the plate.