What are the key physical and optical properties that determine the performance of white CAD plotter paper in large-format printing?- Suzhou For-Long Paper Product Tech Co., Ltd.

The performance of white CAD plotter paper in large-format printing is influenced by several key physical and optical properties. These properties affect how well the paper handles ink, how durable and stable the prints are, and the overall quality and clarity of the technical drawings or graphics produced. Below is a detailed explanation of the most important physical and optical properties:

1. Brightness

Brightness measures the paper’s ability to reflect light, usually expressed as a percentage or on a scale (e.g., ISO brightness).
High brightness levels (typically above 90%) result in a whiter and more vivid background, enhancing the contrast and clarity of printed lines and colors.
This is crucial for architectural and engineering drawings where sharp line visibility is required.
A bright white background improves readability and reduces eye strain during detailed inspections.

2. Opacity

Opacity indicates how much light passes through the paper.
Higher opacity means less show-through, which is important for double-sided printing or when multiple sheets are stacked or layered.
In large-format printing, good opacity prevents interference from lines or text printed on the reverse side or on underlying sheets, maintaining clear visibility.

3. Basis Weight / Grammage

Basis weight (measured in grams per square meter, gsm) defines the thickness and density of the paper.
Higher gsm values typically correspond to thicker, more durable paper that resists tearing, wrinkling, and curling.
For CAD plotting, weights commonly range from about 75 gsm to 120 gsm, balancing durability with flexibility and ease of handling.
The right basis weight supports smooth feeding through plotters without jams or misfeeds.

4. Thickness / Caliper

Thickness, often measured in microns or mils, affects the paper’s stiffness and how it interacts mechanically with printers and cutters.
Thicker paper tends to resist curling and warping, contributing to better flatness during printing and storage.
Adequate thickness also influences how the ink sits on the surface, affecting drying time and smudge resistance.

1070mm*50m58g White Cad Plotter Paper Roll 2 Inch Core

5. Surface Finish / Texture

The surface texture impacts ink absorption, adhesion, and print sharpness.
Common finishes include smooth, vellum, matte, and satin.
A smooth finish provides sharp line definition and crisp detail, ideal for precise CAD work.
Rougher or textured surfaces may diffuse light more, reducing glare but sometimes at the cost of sharpness.

6. Dimensional Stability

Dimensional stability refers to the paper’s ability to maintain its size and shape under varying humidity and temperature conditions.
This property is vital for accurate plotting, as changes in dimensions can distort the scale or alignment of drawings.
Papers with low shrinkage and expansion rates help ensure that measurements remain precise over time.

7. Tensile Strength and Tear Resistance

These mechanical properties indicate how well the paper withstands pulling forces and tearing.
Higher tensile strength prevents paper damage during handling and transport.
Good tear resistance ensures the paper remains intact when folded, stapled, or mounted.

8. Ink Receptivity and Drying Properties

While not strictly a physical or optical property, the paper’s ability to absorb and hold ink without bleeding or smudging is influenced by its coating and surface characteristics.
Effective ink receptivity ensures sharp, clear lines and stable prints suitable for detailed CAD drawings.

The key physical and optical properties determining white CAD plotter paper performance include:

Brightness for clear contrast
Opacity to prevent show-through
Basis weight and thickness for durability and handling
Surface finish for print sharpness
Dimensional stability for accuracy under environmental changes
Tensile strength and tear resistance for durability during use

Together, these properties ensure that white CAD plotter paper meets the high standards necessary for professional large-format printing, delivering reliable, precise, and visually clear results for architectural and engineering applications.