Xaar 501 GS8 U† Printhead

The Xaar 501 GS8 is a single-row, 500‑nozzle wide‑format piezo inkjet printhead that targets graphics (indoor/outdoor signage) and offers high reliability, TF (recirculation) options, and both binary and greyscale firing modes for a balance of image quality and productivity.

Key specifications (our customers‑focused)

•     Nozzles and swathe: 500 active nozzles in a single row, nominal print swathe ~70.4 mm.
•     Drop volume and resolution: 8 pL binary mode at up to 1440 dpi (binary) and four‑level greyscale at 360 dpi (effective resolutions above 600 dpi with greyscale).
•     Firing frequency and velocity: up to ~27 kHz firing frequency and typical drop velocity ~7 m/s (model-dependent).
•     Ink compatibility and viscosity: designed for wide‑format graphic inks including solvent and UV chemistries; recommended viscosity range typically covers low-to-moderate viscosities (approx. 6–100 cP depending on ink and configuration).
•     Fluid handling (recirculation): supports Xaar TF Technology recirculation (High Flow) and a lower‑cost Pulsed recirculation mode, and is also compatible with standard gravity or vacuum feed systems. Recirculation prevents sedimentation and removes bubbles for improved uptime.
•     Mechanical/physical: ceramic nozzle face with increased rigidity from a single-row PrecisionPlus architecture to reduce flex and improve drop placement (±8 µm claimed). Dry weight and exact footprint follow Xaar datasheet dimensions.

Operational advantages for our customers

•     Reliability and uptime: TF recirculation and Pulsed mode options reduce nozzle clogging and maintenance needs in demanding environments. Pulsed mode offers a lower-cost path to partial recirculation benefits.
•     Print quality vs productivity: binary 8 pL at high dpi for fine detail, plus greyscale options that trade some speed for smoother tones; suitable for banners, vinyl, canvas and rigid signage.
•     Flexible ink supply: works with gravity/vacuum feed or TF recirculation—useful for OEMs and integrators choosing cost vs performance.

Short comparison vs similar Xaar heads (high level)

    Compared with earlier Xaar 502/2002 families, the 501 GS8 is optimized for wide‑format graphics with a single‑row PrecisionPlus design, TF recirculation options, and an 8 pL binary mode targeted at high productivity and good image quality. Refer to Xaar’s printhead matrix for side‑by‑side metrics (nozzle count, swathe, drop volumes, TF support).

Example quick buying recommendation

•     If you prioritize low maintenance and outdoor durability: choose a package with TF High Flow recirculation and validated solvent/UV ink profiles.
•     If you need a lower capital cost but want some recirculation benefit: ask for Pulsed recirculation (cheaper pump-based system).
•     For integration into an existing OEM platform: verify mechanical carriage compatibility and order the correct regional variant/connector and spare parts availability