Envelopes
When selecting envelopes, consider the quality of the following factors.
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 on the quality of the envelopes, which includes the following factors:
●
Weight: The weight of the envelope paper should not exceed 105 g/m
2
(28 lb), or jamming
might result.
●
Construction: Before printing, envelopes should lie flat with less than 6 mm (0.25 inch)
curl and should not contain air. Envelopes that trap air might cause problems.
●
Condition: Make sure that the envelopes are not wrinkled, nicked, or otherwise
damaged.
●
Sizes: Supported envelope sizes range from 90 by 160 mm (3.5 by 6.3 inches) to 178 by
254 mm (7 by 10 inches).
ENWW
Guidelines for using media
29
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 is more likely to wrinkle during printing. Make
sure that the seam extends all the way to the corner of the envelope as shown in the following
illustration:
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 that are compatible with the heat and pressure in the device (200° C or
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.