HP 5L (C3941A) manual Paper Curl Troubleshooting, Possible Cause Recommended Action

Paper Curl

Paper curl is inherent to the laser printing processes, and occurs when paper is subjected to heat. Paper curl tends to relax as the paper cools while resting on a flat surface. The specification for maximum paper curl when the paper is lying flat before print is 5 mm (0.2 inches).

Although paper curl cannot be totally eliminated, some steps can be taken to lessen its impact, as suggested in the following table.

Table 7-6	Paper Curl Troubleshooting
	Possible Cause	Recommended Action
	Paper Path	Try using the front output slot to shorten and simplify the paper path.
	Paper Surface	The recommended printing surface of the page is usually marked
		on the end of a ream of paper by a small arrow and the phrase
		“print this side first.” If the incorrect side was face up, turn the
		paper over. Load paper into the Paper Input Bin with the
		recommended printing surface facing the front of the printer.
	Paper Storing and Handling	Over time, paper assumes the characteristics of its storage
		environment. (In a humid environment, paper absorbs moisture. In a
		dry environment, paper loses moisture.) Paper with higher
		moisture contents will tend to curl more. Evaluate the storage
		conditions of the paper.
	Paper Type	All paper is manufactured differently (texture, moisture content,
		drying processes, composition, etc.). Change the type of paper
		being used and re-evaluate the paper if curl results.

7-26 Troubleshooting