Complete method to determine if LUS UV ink is compatible with Mimaki printers
I. Step 1: Confirm the printer model (Most critical)
1. Check the machine's nameplate
There is a white nameplate on the side or back cover of the machine, indicating the Model. Distinguish the compatible ink series:
Compatible models for LUS series ink
JV300 Plus / JV150 / JV130 / CJV150 / CJV300: LUS-150
UJF-3042MkII / UJF-6042MkII / UJF-7151plus: LUS-120
UJF-A3HG, UJF-MkII E series flatbed printers: LUS-170
UCJV300/150 roll-to-roll UV printers: LUS-150
Incompatible models for LUS ink (Absolutely do not mix)
LH series: UJV400, JV33, JV5
LF series: Older UJF-3042 first generation
SS/BS eco-solvent, SB530 water-based, ML inks: Completely incompatible with LUS UV
2. Check the original ink specifications in the machine system
Turn on the machine, enter the panel menu: Maintenance → Ink Information
The page will display the ink models supported by the machine from the factory: LUS120 / LUS150 / LUS170
If other series inks are currently loaded, the machine will directly report an error "Ink Mismatch" and lock the printing.
II. Step 2: Check the ink outer packaging markings
1. Check the large printed model number on the ink pouch/cartridge
The front of the original Mimaki LUS ink packaging is clearly printed with:
LUS-120 / LUS-150 / LUS-170
It is also labeled: UV Curable Ink
Only matching numbers are compatible: If the machine supports LUS150, only LUS150 can be used; 120/170 cannot be interchanged;
If it only says UV Ink without the LUS number or starting with LH/LF, it is completely incompatible.
2. Check the ink color code
Color markings on the side of the packaging: C/M/Y/K/W/CL Varnish / PR Primer
White ink (W), Varnish (CL), and Primer (PR) dedicated channels cannot be interchanged;
Color ink channels of the same LUS model are universal, but cannot be mixed across different series.
3. IC chip distinction (Key for hardware recognition)
Each LUS ink pouch comes with an exclusive IC chip:
The internal coding of LUS120, 150, and 170 chips is different;
Installing a chip of a non-corresponding model into the machine will trigger a screen prompt: Ink cannot be recognized / Ink model error;
Old LH/LF ink chips cannot be recognized by LUS models at all.
III. Step 3: Quick Judgment of Machine Error and Compatibility
1.Normal Matching
After installing the ink, close the back cover. The machine automatically recognizes it without error, and the ink information page normally displays the color code, LUS model, and remaining ink level.
2.Error Symptoms of Model Mismatch
1)Pop-up: Ink Type Error
2)Pop-up: Unrecognizable Ink Cartridge
3)The device is prohibited from printing and cleaning, and can only enter ink replacement mode;
4)Mixing different series of UV inks (LH LUS) will not trigger an immediate error, but will cause short-term nozzle clogging and gelation in the ink lines, directly damaging the printhead without any warning.
IV. Step 4: Compatibility Assessment for New and Old Ink Replacement
1. Same LUS model can be replaced directly: For LUS150 machines, new and old LUS150 ink bags can be replaced directly without deep cleaning.
2. Cross LUS models (LUS150 ink in LUS120 machines): Chip recognition fails, resulting in a direct error.
3. Switching from old LH/LF UV ink to LUS: Even if the machine supports LUS, it cannot be replaced directly due to chemical composition conflicts in the ink path; the entire machine must be cleaned and the filter replaced, otherwise the printhead will clog.
V. Simple Verification Process (On-site Quick Self-Check)
1. Check the machine nameplate model → Confirm the LUS suffix number matches (120/150/170)
2. Check the LUS number on the ink packaging, ensuring the numbers match
3. Install into the machine and observe if an ink error is reported
4. Enter the ink information menu to confirm the system reads the correct ink modela.
