To prevent early deterioration of the OPC drum, the image transfer belt unit is provided with a contact/separation mechanism and, during monochrome printing, separation of the image transfer belt from the OPC drum is controlled. Contact/separation of the image transfer belt unit is performed via a gear from an ITB contact and release motor (also used as a magenta toner supply motor). Separation or contact is detected by the ITB contact and release sensor (S32).
[A]: Slider
[B]: Drum
[C]: Contact and Release Cam
[D]: ITB contact and release motor (also used as a magenta toner supply motor)
[E]: ITB contact and release sensor (S32)
[F]: Guide
[G]: Image Transfer Roller