Xaar 1003 GS40U Printhead

The Xaar 1003 GS40U is a high-drop-volume industrial printhead aimed mainly at UV and oil-based applications, especially ceramics and textured/spot-effect printing. For a buyer quick check, the key tradeoff is simple: it gives bigger drops and strong laydown, but it is less versatile than the GS6U/GS12U for fine-detail or solvent-heavy use.

Core specs

•     Active nozzles: 1000.
•     Swathe width: 70.5 mm.
•     Nozzle density: 360 npi.
•     Ink compatibility: UV and oil-based inks.
•     Drop volume: 40 to 160 pL.
•     Grey levels: 5.
•     Typical firing frequency: 6 kHz.
•     Size: 125 x 30 x 60 mm.

Fast buyer comparison

Buying decision

Choose the GS40U if your priority is thick ink laydown, ceramic printing, or textured/spot-varnish style effects. Choose GS6U or GS12U if you need more flexibility, finer tonal control, or solvent compatibility.

Purchase checklist

•     Confirm your ink chemistry first, because GS40U is listed for UV and oil, not solvent.
•     Check whether your printer electronics and waveform control support the head family before buying.
•     Verify whether you need 5-level grayscale and 40 to 160 pL output, since those are the GS40U’s main differentiators.
•     Be cautious with marketplace pricing; listings vary widely and should be validated against supplier support and authenticity.

A practical rule: if you are printing ceramic glaze, high-build varnish, or bold coverage, the GS40U is a strong fit; if you are chasing image detail and flexibility, it is usually not the first pick.