Patent ID: 6067435
Filing Date: 2000-05-23
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
An image forming apparatus comprising:a primary transfer unit which sequentially transfers toner images of different colors from a photoconductive element to an intermediate transfer belt to thereby form a composite color image on said intermediate transfer belt;a secondary transfer unit which transfers the composite toner image from said intermediate transfer belt to a recording medium, and including a secondary transfer belt extending in a direction of transport in which the recording medium is conveyed, and a secondary transfer element facing an inner periphery of said secondary transfer belt;two secondary transfer rollers facing an inner periphery of said intermediate transfer belt and spaced by a preselected distance in the direction of transport, and wherein said intermediate transfer belt between said two secondary transfer rollers indirectly contacts the secondary transfer belt through the composite toner image; anda bias applying unit positioned downstream of a downstream one of the two secondary transfer rollers;wherein said intermediate transfer belt is formed of a material having a volume resistivity of 10.sup.8 .OMEGA.cm to 10 .sup.10 .OMEGA.cm, and wherein said secondary transfer belt is formed of a material having a volume resistivity higher than 10.sup.11 .OMEGA.cm inclusive.