Considering the fact that companies ranging from commercial printers to on-demand outlets are investing in digital technology, it won't come as a huge surprise to learn that there is an increase in demand in carbonless substrates for digital and laser printing.
"Although the overall demand for carbonless forms has clearly reduced, the transition from litho towards digital has meant interest remains strong," explains Derek Williams, Xerox application products business manager.
This transition has opened up some much-needed new opportunities for carbonless paper manufacturers. "Our product still has great popularity with graphic arts printers, but we also see applications within manufacturing, logistics and service industries, printing their forms on multi-functional or desktop laser devices," adds Williams.
But, as has been the case for many over the past 12 months, tough trading conditions haven't helped the
market. Annual price rises are still a staple of the carbonless paper market, with manufacturers and suppliers seeing
marginal returns.
Clever technology
Carbonless paper is a combination of micro-capsules and a reactive clay coating. In a two-part set, the top sheet (called CB for coated back) has a coating of micro-capsules on the reverse, which contain an oil-like substance containing colour-developing components. The bottom sheet is coated with reactive clay on the front (CF). When the micro-capsules on the top sheet are burst by pressure, usually from a pen, their contents transfer to the clay coating, giving an identical copy of the text.
The number of sets that can be produced from a certain product is determined by the weight of the paper. As with each additional sheet in the set, the pressure needed to release the micro-capsules increases as the pressure is dissipated with each successive sheet.
Carbonless paper can be handled in the same way as regular paper stocks. However, it needs to be stored away from sunlight, as this can affect the colour-developing component of the coating and age the appearance of the paper.
To avoid the possibility of damaging the gelatine capsules while printing on carbonless paper, it's vital to ensure that the press is in good condition. The capsules can be damaged by too much clamp roller or gripper wheel pressure.
When purchasing carbonless paper, bear in mind whether the papers are suited or limited to a particular print process and size range. Ancillary products such as adhesives, desensitising ink and test spray can help produce a good result, but the additional cost needs to be factored in.
WHAT'S NEW IN CARBONLESS PAPER
• Paper manufacturer Mitsubishi Hi Tec Paper increased the price of its Giroform carbonless paper, sheets and reels by 8% from 4 January 2010. The firm blamed the rise on raw material cost increases and the
weak pound
• Paper manufacturer Arjowiggins sold its carbonless paper division in a MBO last September. The Belgium-based company is now called Idem Papers and is headed up by executive manager Francis Tans, who was previously executive director of Arjowiggins
• M-real announced plans to close two speciality paper machines at its German Reflex mill and streamline the organisations at the mill and its Gohrsmühle site. Production of carbonless papers will be transferred to the Gohrsmühle mill, while converting will remain at Reflex. The move is a result of a fall in demand and increases in raw material costs that have hit paper manufacturing during the past year
