Envelopes

Envelope construction

Envelope construction is critical. Envelope fold lines can vary considerably, not only between manufacturers, but also within a box from the same manufacturer. Successful printing on envelopes depends upon the quality of the envelopes. When selecting envelopes, consider the following components:

●Weight: The weight of the envelope paper should not exceed 28 lb (105 g/m2), or jamming might result.

●Construction: Prior to printing, envelopes should lie flat with less than 6 mm (0.25 in.) curl and should not contain air. Envelopes that trap air may cause problems.

●Condition: Make sure that the envelopes are not wrinkled, nicked, or otherwise damaged.

●Sizes: From 90 x 160 mm (3.5 x 6.3 in.) to 178 x 254 mm (7 x 10 in.).

Envelopes with double-side seams

An envelope with double-side-seam construction has vertical seams at both ends of the envelope rather than diagonal seams. This style might be more likely to wrinkle. Make sure that the seam extends all the way to the corner of the envelope as shown in the following illustration:

1

2

1acceptable envelope construction

2unacceptable envelope construction

Envelopes with adhesive strips or flaps

Envelopes with a peel-off adhesive strip or with more than one flap that folds over to seal must use adhesives compatible with the heat and pressure in the printer: 200° C (392° F). The extra flaps and strips might cause wrinkling, creasing, or jams.

Envelope storage

Proper storage of envelopes contributes to good print quality. You should store envelopes flat. If air is trapped in an envelope, creating an air bubble, the envelope might wrinkle during printing.

118 Appendix B

ENWW