Continuous Ink Supply Systems: A Smart Solution for High-Volume Printing


In today's fast-paced office and educational environments, efficient printing solutions are more important than ever. Continuous Ink Supply Systems (CISS) offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional ink cartridges, especially for high-volume printing needs. This guide explores everything you need to know about CISS, from types and features to buying tips and reliable suppliers.


How to Find Reliable Continuous Ink Supply Systems from China in 2025


China remains a leading manufacturer of Continuous Ink Supply Systems, offering competitive prices and advanced technology. To find reliable suppliers:

  • Check Alibaba.com for verified suppliers with good ratings
  • Look for manufacturers with ISO 9001 certification
  • Request samples to test quality before bulk orders
  • Verify warranty and after-sales support terms

Top Chinese cities for CISS manufacturing include Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Shanghai, where you'll find factories specializing in printer accessories.


What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Continuous Ink Supply Systems from China


When importing CISS from China, consider these factors:

  • Compatibility with your printer model (Epson, Canon, Brother, etc.)
  • Ink quality and drying time specifications
  • Shipping costs and import duties for your country
  • Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) from suppliers
  • Payment terms (30% deposit is common)

Always request product certifications and check for patent compliance to avoid legal issues.


Types of Continuous Ink Supply Systems


There are three main types of CISS available:

  1. External Tank Systems: Separate ink tanks connected to cartridges via tubes
  2. Integrated CISS: Factory-installed systems in compatible printers
  3. Refillable Cartridge Systems: Modified cartridges with external ink reservoirs

Each type has advantages depending on your printing volume and maintenance preferences.


Functions and features of Continuous Ink Supply Systems


Modern CISS offer several advanced features:

  • Automatic ink level monitoring
  • Anti-leakage and anti-evaporation designs
  • High-capacity ink reservoirs (100ml-1000ml)
  • UV-resistant ink bottles
  • Easy-priming mechanisms

These features help maintain print quality while reducing maintenance requirements.


Scenarios of Continuous Ink Supply Systems


CISS are ideal for:

  • Schools and universities printing large quantities of materials
  • Office environments with frequent document printing
  • Small businesses producing marketing materials
  • Photography studios requiring high-quality prints
  • Signage and banner printing businesses

Case Study: A mid-sized university reduced printing costs by 68% after switching to CISS for their 50-printer fleet.


How to Choose Continuous Ink Supply Systems


Follow these steps when selecting a CISS:

  1. Determine your average monthly printing volume
  2. Verify compatibility with your printer model
  3. Compare ink costs per page between systems
  4. Evaluate ease of installation and maintenance
  5. Check for local technical support availability

Remember that higher initial costs often lead to greater long-term savings.


Continuous Ink Supply Systems Q & A


Q: How much can I save with a CISS compared to regular cartridges?
A: Users typically save 60-80% on ink costs, with some high-volume applications seeing 90% savings.

Q: Will using a CISS void my printer warranty?
A: It depends on the manufacturer. Some brands explicitly prohibit third-party systems, while others are more lenient.

Q: How often do I need to refill the ink tanks?
A: This varies by usage, but most systems need refilling every 1-3 months for average office use.

Q: Can I use any ink with my CISS?
A: No, you must use ink specifically formulated for your printer type to avoid clogging and quality issues.

Q: What maintenance does a CISS require?
A: Basic maintenance includes monthly cleaning of print heads and checking for air bubbles in the tubes.