# Cleaning the Vacuum Module

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

<figure><img src="/files/Ij5J4rPWZ8SuyVdhb6y4" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### 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)**

{% hint style="danger" %}
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.
{% endhint %}

* 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.

{% hint style="info" %}
There may be residual ink staining left on the vacuum plate after cleaning. This should not impact the overall performance of the plate.&#x20;
{% endhint %}


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