Moisture Content of Paper

While it is not always important that you know the moisture content and properties of the paper you are using for your next printing project, you need to make sure your printer has considered the effects of the variables which are often built into paper when it is made. Slight variations and different choices in the paper’s moisture content and reaction to moisture can easily put your printing project on the course for a curl.

The moisture content of the paper you choose for your printing project can give you a comprehensive analysis of how the paper will react in a variety of situations. In particular you will be able to find out what your paper will do when exposed to changes in humidity which are often experienced in the printing process.

The moisture content of the paper also influences the smoothness of the paper, its strength, ink receptivity and its dimension stability to differing degrees. The moisture content of paper is usually between 4-10% and is defined as the reduction in weight of the paper after oven drying at 1050 C. While the moisture content of the paper is influenced by its production methods and its drying time, it can also be affected by the way it is used and stored.

A good printer will go to great lengths to preserve the moisture content of paper they are going to use for your project, and they will do everything they can to ensure that the percentage of moisture in the paper you have chosen is suitable for your printing project and the printing methods required to produce that project.

For more information or advice about the moisture content you need for the paper in your next printing project to get the best results, contact Print Compare now.