Canon PFI-120 Black Ink Cartridge

Carbon Black Pigment Technology

The PFI-120 employs advanced carbon black pigment formulation rather than traditional dye-based inks. The carbon pigment particles remain uniformly suspended within the ink carrier, providing superior light stability and water resistance. Additionally, this technology produces sharper text definition and enhanced line clarity compared to dye alternatives.

Cartridge Design Innovation

Canon engineered the PFI-120 with integrated smart monitoring systems that track ink consumption and communicate status information to compatible printers. The cartridge housing features vacuum-sealed construction to prevent contamination and maintain ink freshness. Furthermore, the design incorporates anti-settling technology that prevents pigment separation during storage periods.

Black Density Performance

The black ink formulation achieves maximum optical density ratings while maintaining consistent output across temperature variations between 59°F and 86°F. Color consistency remains stable throughout the cartridge’s operational lifespan, ensuring uniform black reproduction across multi-page documents. Moreover, the ink maintains proper viscosity without requiring external heating systems.

Installation Methodology

The PFI-120 features Canon’s precision-engineered installation system with distinctive black identification coding. The cartridge aligns automatically within designated printer slots using mechanical guides that prevent misalignment. Subsequently, the locking mechanism engages with audible confirmation to indicate proper installation completion.

Text Quality Optimization

Each PFI-120 cartridge undergoes quality verification to ensure optimal text reproduction and line definition. The ink formulation includes anti-feathering agents that prevent ink bleeding on various media types. Consequently, technical drawings and text documents maintain crisp edge definition without requiring specialized paper coatings.

Large-Format Document Production

The PFI-120 excels in wide-format applications requiring precise black reproduction across extended print dimensions. Text clarity remains consistent throughout prints exceeding 24 inches in width. Additionally, the cartridge provides sufficient ink capacity for continuous operation in high-volume technical documentation environments.

Archival Document Standards

Laboratory testing demonstrates PFI-120 fade resistance exceeding 200 years under controlled storage conditions. The carbon black pigment resists UV degradation and atmospheric pollutants effectively. Therefore, technical drawings and archival documents maintain original clarity and contrast for extended preservation periods.

Ideal Users

The Canon PFI-120 Black ink cartridge serves demanding printing applications:

• Engineering consultancies – Technical professionals printing large-scale blueprints benefit from sharp line definition across 24+ inch print widths
• Architectural firms – Design teams producing construction drawings utilize the cartridge’s precise black reproduction for technical documentation
• Legal document services – Firms processing large-format legal documents require archival-quality black ink for permanent record keeping
• Manufacturing facilities – Production environments printing technical manuals depend on fade-resistant black for operational documentation
• Educational institutions – Technical schools printing engineering diagrams leverage the cartridge’s text clarity for instructional materials

Operational Reliability

The PFI-120 maintains consistent ink quality throughout its operational cycle without density variations or flow irregularities. Cartridge monitoring systems provide advance notification before ink depletion occurs. Additionally, the high-capacity design minimizes replacement frequency and associated production interruptions.

Cost Effectiveness Analysis

Each PFI-120 cartridge contains 130ml of black ink, offering substantial cost benefits compared to smaller capacity alternatives. The extended ink volume reduces per-page printing costs for high-volume text applications. Furthermore, enterprise purchasing agreements provide additional cost advantages for institutional users.

Environmental Impact

Canon manufactures the PFI-120 using recyclable materials and sustainable production processes. The cartridge design minimizes packaging waste while ensuring product integrity during transportation. Therefore, users contribute to environmental responsibility while maintaining professional printing standards.

Physical Specifications

• Ink capacity: 130ml carbon black pigment ink
• Dimensions: 6.1 x 2.4 x 1.8 inches
• Weight: 0.8 pounds when full
• Housing material: Recyclable ABS plastic construction
• Monitoring system: Integrated smart chip technology

Ink Formulation

• Ink type: Carbon black pigment formulation
• Viscosity: 3.0 ± 0.3 mPa·s at 25°C
• Surface tension: 32 ± 2 mN/m
• pH level: 8.9 ± 0.3
• Pigment concentration: 13% by weight

Performance Characteristics

• Optical density: 2.1 maximum on plain paper
• Fade resistance: 200+ years archival rating
• Water resistance: Excellent on compatible media
• Text clarity: 1200 dpi effective resolution
• Drying time: 15-40 seconds depending on media

Compatibility Information

• Compatible models: imagePROGRAF TM-200, TM-205, TM-300, TM-305
• Part number: PFI-120BK
• Installation type: User-replaceable cartridge system
• Shelf life: 24 months in original packaging
• Operating temperature: 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C)

Environmental Certifications

• RoHS directive compliance
• REACH regulation adherence
• ISO 14001 manufacturing certification
• Recyclable content: 87% of cartridge materials
• Carbon footprint: Optimized logistics and production