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When it comes to paper for rigid boxes, the choices are almost endless. While there are a small number of common core materials used in the paper making process, the colors and textures available are enormous. Listed below are some of the common papers and the terminology used within the rigid box industry.
White Litho
White litho paper is commonly used when printing is required for your rigid box application. Many of our products require a multi-color printing. White litho paper can also be used without any printing on it. This type of paper has a surface that is very durable and can be ordered in many different weights depending on its usage. You should note that the lighter white litho papers may show through the paper board and be more difficult to use in the box production process.
Offset or Book Paper
White offset paper or book paper as it is sometimes known, is also an option in the box making process. Offset paper is an uncoated sheet of paper that offers a duller finish to your finished product. This type of paper also needs to be handled carefully to keep it clean throughout the manufacturing process. Like all papers, offset paper can have some imperfections such as specks or dark fibers, depending on the grade.
Kraft Paper
Kraft paper is a fairly durable material which makes a good cover paper typically used for mailers and packages that are used to carry items in. The kraft color can vary from lot to lot and some imperfections in the material are common. Kraft paper is most suitable for rigid box applications that require a more rustic look.
Specialty Papers
There are many specialty papers available that can be used on a rigid box. Most of the large paper converters in the industry have certain stock papers that are ordered frequently. This provides us, the rigid box manufacturer, a quick turn around time and less expense that a custom run paper. Most specialty papers are available in different roll widths and different embossing.
Coatings
The papers used in the manufacture of rigid boxes can be ordered with specific coatings to fit a particular application. Some examples of this are:
Aqueous This is a coating that is applied to the entire sheet of paper. It offers good abrasion resistance and is washable.
Varnish A Varnish coating when needed, is commonly applied right in line with the printing press. It sometimes assists the printer with the ability to handle the load faster. It offers some protection against scuffing and is cleanable.
UV UV or Ultraviolet coating is typically applied to a printed or other box cover paper where a very high gloss, smooth finish is required. A UV coating offers a very good scuff resistant layer and is washable.
Film A film coating is a thin layer of a plastic or a mylar coating which is applied to the entire sheet of paper. The film coating is a very thin layer which eliminates the possibility of scuffing or ink rub off. In certain applications, when a film coating is used, a special glue is required to bond the paper to the paper board.
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