Density of Whatman paper and other types of paper

The density of Whatman or paper for printing is very important. This criterion determines their scope of use, print quality and even the durability of the printer. What is the density of different types of paper, and how to choose the right one for a particular type of paper?

Density and thickness are not the same

Speaking of density, many mean the thickness of the paper, but this is erroneous. A thicker sheet of paper of one brand seems more dense than the other, while the density indicators for them may be identical.

In fact, thick paper is more friable and porous, it is more prone to wear and has a shorter service life. While the thin one with a higher density is more compressed and will last longer. And the ink on it is laid more evenly, which is the key to accurate quality printing. Therefore, thin paper can not always be bad.

What kind of paper is used?

In different spheres, paper of varying density is used. For example, printing requires indicators from 60 to 300 g / m ² . Much less this figure for newsprint - only 45-60 g / m ² . Drawing paper or watercolor paper for letters and business cards - all these are certain varieties with a specific density, the criteria of which are strictly regulated. A Whatman even has clear indicators, fixed in the GOST.

Speaking about the paper, it should be noted that this is the largest paper format used in the field of design and art. He enjoys great popularity among people of various professions.

Density and print quality

The density of the paper and the specifications of the printing device are closely interrelated. In the instructions for each printer, the manufacturer usually specifies the format and recommended density. Marking A4, 64-163 g / m ² , for example, means that this type of paper is suitable for this device. Whatman with a density above the allowable will not work - it can even damage the mechanism and put the printer out of action.

Typically, standard office printers and copiers use paper sizes A3 and A4, with an average density of 80 g / m ² . It is these indicators that guide manufacturers, producing printing paper. Each of them produces its own brand, with a guarantee of high quality printing on the paper of this brand. For example, the products of the domestic brand "Snow Maiden" are very popular in our offices.

Weight of paper and GOST

If the density is known, then the weight of a sheet of paper is also easy to determine. For example, a sheet of A4 with numbers on a package of 80 g / m ² will weigh almost 5 grams. In a standard bundle of such paper 500 sheets, then the weight of the pack will be about 2.5 kilograms. If the actual weight exceeds this figure, most likely, the storage conditions were not observed, and the moisture level of the paper is higher than normal.

Paper for office printing, books and letterheads, with a density of 160 g / m² will have indicators from 800 to 900 kg per cubic meter. Less than 160 - from 750 to 850 kg / m³ Not only offset paper is also popular. Density GOST sets for it at the level of 850-950 kg / m³. The newspaper has the lowest density, it's the cheapest paper. The term of its "life" is only a few days, after which the manufacturer can not guarantee durability: such paper begins to crumble and turn yellow.

Depending on the printing tasks, the density, as well as the hardness and thickness of the paper, can change. To date, there are different standards, and to find all the criteria individually is not difficult.

Whatman is a premium paper

The density of the paper is higher than that of other types of paper, so it is considered a top-notch product. Standard formats are several: from A1 to A4 (you can also find a Whatman paper of the A5 format), each of them has its own density - in the range from 120 to 200 g / m². And still there is a paper A0 with impressive parameters of a leaf 841х1189 see This paper on the size will be more, than all other formats taken together.

In addition to such indicators as the weight and density of the paper, the homogeneity of the pulp is important, which improves the quality of printing. And the high opacity of the sheet allows you to print or draw on it from both sides.

How to determine that this is a real quality Whatman? First of all in appearance: the paper is white, dense and smooth. If in doubt, drop a little clean water on the sheet. From her drawing paper should not be deformed. This is used not only for drawing, but also for drawing - paints, ink or pencil. Although for these purposes, professional artists often buy special watercolor paper, with a high density and excellent moisture absorption.

Where and how much to buy a Whatman?

So, you know, for what tasks do you need this paper, you know what the density of the paper should be, but where to buy it? Typically, in a stationery store or a bookshop. Whatman is sold at an affordable price - for a sheet of A1 format you will need to pay no more than 20 rubles. Sheets smaller format will cost you even cheaper.