Staff Answer
May 21, 2026 - 10:17 AM
The Ricoh Ri 4000 requires a specific supply setup because it is designed as a production-focused DTG printer with dedicated ink, enhancer, cleaner, and maintenance consumables. Unlike simpler garment printers that may only require CMYK plus white ink, the Ri 4000 uses a more complete cartridge system. According to Ricoh’s Ri 4000 supplies guidance, the printer has six ink or ink-cleaner cartridge slots: two white slots, plus one slot each for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black. In addition, the Ri 4000 includes four separate slots for enhancer or enhancer-cleaner cartridges. To operate normally, the printer requires four enhancer cartridges, two white ink cartridges, and one cartridge of each CMYK color.
For a shop owner, this means the Ri 4000 should not be treated as a “buy ink only when empty” machine. Keeping extra ink and enhancer cartridges on hand is important because Ricoh warns that running out of ink can put the printer into an error state. That matters because an error state can prevent the printer’s automatic maintenance process from running, which can increase the risk of nozzle clogging. In a production environment, this is one of the most important practical points: ink inventory is not just about avoiding downtime; it is also part of protecting the print system.
The Ri 4000 also uses cleaner cartridges, but these should not be confused with regular cleaning liquid. Ricoh states that the cleaner cartridges are unique to the Ri 4000, with one cleaner type for ink and another for enhancer. These are generally used when the operator wants to fill the lines with cleaner, such as for long-term storage or extended periods of inactivity. Ricoh also notes that cleaner cartridges should only be used for that purpose, because if inserted without properly clearing the lines, they can prevent automatic maintenance.
In addition to cartridges, Ri 4000 owners should monitor the cleaner bottle and refill it as needed using Ricoh Cleaning Liquid Type P1. Routine maintenance supplies should also be kept in stock, including cleaning liquid, cleaning applicators, lint-free wipes, Ricoh grease, and fan filters. Ricoh specifically points users to daily, three-day, and monthly maintenance requirements, which means the machine should be supported with a consistent maintenance routine rather than occasional cleaning only when problems appear.
In simple terms, a properly stocked Ri 4000 setup should include ink, white ink, enhancer, the correct cleaner cartridges for storage or inactivity, cleaning liquid for routine use, applicators, lint-free wipes, grease, and replacement filters. For best results, shops should treat these items as required operating supplies, not optional accessories.
