OVERVIEW
The Canon PFI-5100 Matte Black Lucia PRO II Individual Ink Tank (6951C002) delivers the deepest matte densities and superb tonal fidelity for Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-2600, PRO-4600, and PRO-6600 printers. With a generous 160 mL capacity and Canon’s latest Lucia PRO II pigment formulation, this MBK tank is purpose-built to produce luxurious matte blacks, smooth gradations, and exceptional longevity on fine art and matte-coated media.
Lucia PRO II Pigment Ink Advantage
Canon’s Lucia PRO II inks represent the next evolution in professional pigment technology, offering excellent color stability, impressive scratch resistance, and a refined surface finish. The Matte Black channel is critical for maximizing Dmax on matte and fine art stocks—yielding richer shadow detail, crisp micro-contrast, and a velvety, reflection-free black.Deep, Neutral, and Consistent Matte Blacks
The PFI-5100 Matte Black is tuned to deliver exceptionally deep, neutral blacks on non-gloss media. This tank helps minimize bronzing and differential gloss, supporting prints that exhibit a smooth, uniform appearance under varied viewing conditions, including gallery lighting.160 mL Capacity for Professional Throughput
At 160 mL, the PFI-5100 strikes the ideal balance of cost-efficiency and workflow agility. Individual tanks let you replace only the channel you need, reducing waste, preserving momentum in production environments, and ensuring consistent output across long print runs.Precise Compatibility
Designed specifically for Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-2600, PRO-4600, and PRO-6600 large-format inkjet printers, this tank integrates seamlessly with onboard ink management for reliable status reporting and smooth, error-free installation.Built for Archival Results
As a pigment-based ink, Lucia PRO II Matte Black provides excellent fade resistance and long-term stability when paired with appropriate media and storage/ display conditions. It’s the preferred choice for fine art, museum-quality prints, photographic editions, and matte signage requiring longevity and consistency.Ideal Applications
- Fine art and matte photographic prints demanding high Dmax and smooth tonal transitions
- Portfolio prints, exhibitions, and gallery installations
- Matte posters, proofing, and design comps where neutrality and consistency matter
- Black-and-white matte work that benefits from rich, non-reflective blacks
Key Benefits at a Glance
- Optimized for matte/fine art media with outstanding Dmax and shadow separation
- Lucia PRO II pigments deliver durability and improved scratch resistance
- Individual 160 mL tank minimizes waste and supports cost-effective operation
- Engineered by Canon for Canon—maximum reliability and color accuracy
PFI-5100 vs Dye-Based Inks
Pigment inks like Lucia PRO II contain micro-encapsulated colorants that sit closer to the media surface, producing better long-term stability and resistance to environmental factors than dye-based alternatives. For matte and fine art media, the pigment-based Matte Black channel is crucial to achieving a high Dmax and preserving tonal nuance over time.PFI-5100 vs Earlier Lucia Generations
Lucia PRO II inks build on Canon’s proven Lucia heritage with refinements that improve surface uniformity, reduce bronzing, and enhance rub/scratch resistance—particularly valuable when handling large fine art prints. Expect reliable color performance, consistent blacks, and smoother shadow gradations compared to earlier formulations.Usage Tips
- Shake the tank gently before installation only if recommended by Canon; follow printer prompts.
- Keep unopened tanks stored in their original packaging, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Print a nozzle check after installation and before critical jobs to ensure optimal output.
- For maximum longevity, pair pigment inks with archival matte media and store/display prints using conservation methods.
- Avoid touching printed surfaces immediately after output; allow proper drying/curing time per media guidelines.
Recommended Accessories
- Canon Lucia PRO II color set tanks for the PRO-2600/4600/6600 (to maintain uniform aging across channels)
- Archival matte and fine art papers (e.g., cotton rag, textured watercolor, baryta-style matte)
- Protective cotton gloves for print handling
- Archival sleeves, interleaving sheets, and storage boxes
- Calibrated monitor and color management tools for a controlled workflow
Specifications
- Model: Canon PFI-5100 (Matte Black / MBK)
- Part Number: 6951C002
- UPC: 013803382860
- Ink Type: Pigment (Lucia PRO II)
- Color: Matte Black
- Volume: 160 mL
- Container Type: Individual Ink Tank
- Printer Compatibility: Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-2600, PRO-4600, PRO-6600 series
- Yield Type: Standard Yield (actual yield varies by image content, media, and print settings)
Workflow and Cost Efficiency
The 160 mL capacity helps reduce changeover frequency, supporting uninterrupted production. Because the tanks are individual, you only replace the colors that run low, which helps control consumable costs and keeps output consistent across large jobs.Installation and Handling
PFI-5100 tanks are keyed for correct slot placement and are recognized by the printer’s onboard management system. Follow on-screen prompts for installation, and always update your printer’s firmware when available to ensure optimal ink performance and accounting accuracy.Environmental and Storage Considerations
Store unopened tanks in a cool, dry place within the temperature and humidity ranges specified by Canon. Dispose of empty cartridges according to local regulations, and consider Canon’s recycling resources where available.A Brief History of Canon Lucia Inks
Canon’s Lucia line has long been a benchmark for professional photo and fine art printing. Over successive generations—Lucia, Lucia EX, Lucia PRO—Canon has focused on smoother gradations, wider gamut, and improved durability. Lucia PRO II continues this trajectory with material science enhancements that further refine surface uniformity and resistance to abrasion, supporting the ever-higher standards of gallery, museum, and commercial printmakers.Who Should Choose the PFI-5100 Matte Black?
If your work emphasizes fine art or matte photo output—especially black-and-white or low-key images—this Matte Black tank is essential for achieving the richest, most neutral blacks and smooth shadow transitions on matte media. It’s a foundational component of a reliable, professional large-format workflow.