Troubleshooting Ballpoint Pens: Causes and Fixes

Did you know that out of all the writing instruments available, ballpoint pens are the pens most in use? No wonder ballpoint pens are dependable, durable, and easy on the pocket. Ballpoint pens employ quick-drying ink that ensures even distribution.

There is no doubt that ballpoint pens are the go-to for so many people but they would only be the most reliable pen even if you care for them right. However, you need to store these pens correctly, or they may stop working.

In this blog, we will read the causes due to which the ballpoint pens may stop working and the ways to fix them.

Why Do Ballpoint Pens Stop Working?

1. Ink Drying or Thickening

If a ballpoint pen is not used frequently, its ink can dry out over time. This can result in the ink becoming thick and obstructing the ball or ink tube leading to ink flow.

Additionally, when exposed to air, the ink within the pen mechanism can dry up causing difficulties for the ball to roll smoothly and distribute ink effectively.

2. Air Pockets

It is common for air pockets to form within the ink cartridge or tube of a ballpoint pen. These pockets can disrupt the flow of ink onto the ball. It causes skipping or inconsistent writing. When there isn't ink surrounding the ball, it may not glide effortlessly on paper. It consequently affects proper writing performance.

3. Damaged Ball or Tip

Sometimes the ball on the pen tip can get damaged, which can cause difficulties in its rotation and ink absorption. As a result ink flow may become uneven or nonexistent.

4. Ink Depletion

One common reason for a pen not writing is ink depletion. It may seem obvious. We often forget that pens eventually run out of ink.

Also Read: Ballpoint vs Rollerball - What's the Difference?

How to Fix Ballpoint Pens?

1. Warm it Up

If the ink has thickened, gently rub the pen tip between your hands to warm it up. This helps soften the ink and get it flowing again.

2. Unclog the Pen

Tap the tip of the pen gently on a piece of paper or a hard surface to dislodge any air bubbles that might be blocking the ink flow.

3. Use Gravity

Hold the pen with its tip pointing downwards for some time. The force of gravity can assist in moving the ink toward the ball enabling writing.

4. Replace the Cartridge

If your pen has an ink cartridge, consider replacing it with one. This ensures a supply of ink and often resolves the issue.

5. Cleaning the Ball and Mechanism

If you suspect any clogs, try using water on a paper towel or cotton swab to clean the ball and the surrounding area. Just make sure to let the pen dry completely before using it.

6. Checking for Damage

Give both the ball and the tip of the pen a regular check for any signs of damage. Unfortunately, if you find that the ball is damaged, it may not be repairable.

Also Read: Advantages of Writing with Ballpoint Pens

Why Ballpoint Pens Leak?

1. Temperature Changes

When there are fluctuations in temperature, it can cause the ink inside the pen to expand or contract. This change in pressure within the pen can lead to ink leaks through either the ball or tip.

2. Air Pressure

Rapid changes in air pressure, such as during air travel, have an impact on pressure within pens, which may result in ink leakage.

3. Pen Quality or Damage

Pens of quality or those with manufacturing defects might have irregularities in their ink reservoirs that increase the chances of leaks occurring.

4. Ink Composition

Certain types of ink can be more prone to leaking due to their viscosity or chemical composition. If the ink is too thin it could potentially go through the ball easily. When the ink reservoir is overfilled, whether accidentally, it can cause leakage when the pen is closed or moved around.

By following these steps and understanding the causes of leakage, you can prevent issues with your ballpoint pen.

Also Read: 7 Beginner Fountain Pen Mistakes to Avoid

How to Clean Ballpoint Pens?

Cleaning ballpoint pens is essential to maintain their functionality and prevent clogs and leaks. Here's how to do it:

1. Gather Your Supplies

Get some water, a cloth or paper towel, and maybe a cotton swab.

2. Take It Apart (If Possible)

If your pen can be disassembled ( make sure you know how to put it back) go ahead and take it apart to access the ballpoint and ink tube.

3. Rinse the Ballpoint

Hold the tip of the pen under running water for a few seconds. This helps dissolve any dried ink and clear any blockages around the ball.

4. Flush the Tube

If you notice slow ink flow, gently use a syringe (without a needle) to push water through the ink tube. Alternatively, you can immerse the tip in a cup of water. Press down on the pen’s plunger to flush out the tube.

5. Wipe and Dry

Carefully wipe down the ballpoint tip and any disassembled parts with a cloth or paper towel. Allow all components to air dry before reassembling your pen.

6. Check for Leaks

Once you've cleaned everything up and put it back together, test your pen on scrap paper to make sure there are no leaks. If it still leaks, there might be an issue that needs attention.

Using your pen regularly is important to prevent the ink from drying out and causing the ball mechanism to clog.

Also Read: Debunking the Myths About Fountain Pens

How to Store Ballpoint Pen?

Horizontal Position: Store your ballpoint pens horizontally to avoid ink pooling near the tip, which can result in leakage.

Cool, Dry Place: Keep your pens away from sunlight and extreme temperatures to maintain the consistency of the ink.
Cap On: Always remember to cap your pen when it’s not in use to prevent the ink from drying out and causing clogs.
Separate from Others: Avoid any contact with objects that could potentially damage the pen or cause leaks.

Conclusion

By adhering to these storage recommendations, you can extend the longevity and effectiveness of your ballpoint pens. Taking a bit of care will ensure that your reliable pens are consistently working and effortlessly written on paper.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you take care of a ballpoint pen?

To care for a ballpoint pen, make sure to cap it when not in use. Do not place these in extreme temperatures and use smooth paper. Additionally, do not write with excess pressure and store it upright. Occasionally clean the tip as well.

2. How do you make a ballpoint pen last longer?

To extend a ballpoint pen's lifespan: