Issue description

During the processing of materials secured with xTool Electrostatic Mat on xTool M1 Ultra, you may notice that the material shifts during processing or the material has moved by the end of the processing. This guide provides a systematic approach to identifying and resolving the issue.

Possible causes

1. Adsorption Not Activated: The mat’s eletrostatic adsorption switch was not engaged.
2. Electrostatic Protection Sheet Not Used or Dirty: The protection sheet was not placed or is contaminated, reducing adsorption efficiency.
3. Failed Adsorption: Electrostatic mat malfunctions.
4. Lifted Edges: Curled edges interfere with the processing module (e.g., ink module).
5. Small Design Elements: Design elements smaller than 2mm may not be held securely.
6. Excessive Parameters: High cutting pressure or processing speed can dislodge the material.
7. Incompatible Material: Non-electrostatic-friendly material (e.g., fabric).

Troubleshooting flowchart

This flowchart provides a visual overview of the troubleshooting process.

Material Shifting? 

→ Check for Warping → Tape Down Edges 

→ Still Shifting? → Use Electrostatic Protection Sheet 

→ Still Shifting? → Clean Protection Sheet 

→ Still Shifting? → Activate Electrostatic Absorption 

→ Still Shifting? → Verify Absorption Functionality 

→ Still Shifting? → Adjust Processing Size & Parameters 

→ Still Shifting? → Use Compatible Materials

Troubleshooting

STEP1: Use the electrostatic protection sheet

• Ensure the electrostatic protection sheet is placed on your xTool Electrostatic Mat before placing the material.
• Lay the material on top of the protection sheet and check for movement.
  • If the issue is resolved: Continue processing. Troubleshooting is complete.
  • If unresolved: Proceed to STEP2.

STEP2: Clean the electrostatic protection sheet

Tools Needed: Lint-free cloth & isopropyl alcohol

• Inspect the protection sheet for dust, residue, or stains.
• If dirty, clean it with a lint-free cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol.
• Let it dry completely before reusing.
• Test the material’s adhesion after cleaning.
  • If resolved: Resume processing. Troubleshooting is complete.
  • If unresolved: Proceed to STEP3.

STEP3: Tape down warped edges

• Check if the material has curled edges that could interfere with the ink module or other processing components.
• If warping is present:
  • Use tape or stickers (included in your package) to secure the edges.
  • Avoid placing tape over the design area.
• Test processing again.
  • If resolved: Continue processing. Troubleshooting is complete.
  • If unresolved: Proceed to STEP4.

STEP4: Activate electrostatic adsorption

• Ensure the electrostatic adsorption switch is pressed after placing the material.
  • A solid green light indicates the adsorption function is active.
• Test processing.
  • If resolved: Continue processing. Troubleshooting is complete.
  • If unresolved: Proceed to STEP5.

STEP5: Verify adsorption functionality

Tools Needed: A4 White Paper

• Place a sheet of A4 white paper on xTool Electrostatic Mat.
• Press the electrostatic adsorption switch and check if the paper adheres firmly.
  • If the paper stays in place: Adsorption is functional. Proceed to STEP6.
  • If the paper slips: Adsorption failure detected—contact xTool Customer Service at support@xtool.com for assistance. Describe the steps you have already taken to resolve the problem.

STEP6: Adjust design & parameters

• Check Processing Element Size:
  • If elements are smaller than 2mm, they may not adhere properly.
  • Increase the size if possible.
• Check Cutting Pressure & Speed:
  • Excessive pressure or high speed can cause material movement.
  • Reduce pressure and speed settings while ensuring proper cutting performance.
• Test processing again.
  • If resolved: Continue with adjusted settings. Troubleshooting is complete.
  • If unresolved: Proceed to STEP7.

STEP7: Use a compatible material

• Check whether the material supports electrostatic adsorption.
  • Incompatible: Fabric, most leathers, paper heavier than 300gsm.
  • Compatible:
    • Paper (less than 300gsm):
      • Cardstock
      • Kraft paper
      • Textured paper
      • Stickers
      • Heat-fusible ink paper
      • Printing paper
      • Photo paper
    • Vinyl:
      • Heat transfer vinyl
      • Sticky vinyl
      • Printable vinyl
    • Acrylic with Protective Paper

• If the material is incompatible:
  • Replace it with a compatible material.
  • Alternatively, use the pink grip-cutting mat for better stability.
• Test processing again.
  • If resolved: Continue processing. Troubleshooting is complete.
  • If unresolved: Contact xTool Customer Service for further assistance. Describe the steps you have already taken to resolve the issue.