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

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