How to store thermal paper?

Thermal paper is a special type of paper used in thermal printers. It is coated with a special chemical that reacts to heat, allowing it to print images and text without needing ink or toner. While thermal paper can be useful in many printing applications, it must be stored properly to ensure that its qualities are maintained over time. Let’s check out – how to store thermal paper to make them last longer.

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Tips for storing thermal paper

Here are some tips on how to store thermal paper:

1. Temperature and Humidity Levels

Make sure the temperature and humidity levels are optimal for storage. The printing receipt warehouses should be stored at temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F) and relative humidity between 30%-50%. The warmer and more humid the environment, the faster the thermal coating will degrade. Therefore, keeping these conditions as stable as possible is essential for the long-term storage of POS thermal paper.

2. Avoid direct sunlight

You need to avoid direct sunlight or any UV light exposure. Thermal printer paper can degrade quickly when exposed to UV light, so make sure you store it in a dark and cool place to ensure its longevity. Also, keep away from fluorescent lights, which can cause fading and discoloration over time.

3. Keep thermal paper away from moisture

Moisture is the enemy of thermal paper as it will cause damage over time and can even render it unusable if not taken care of properly. To avoid this, ensure the room where you store your thermal paper has good air circulation and low humidity levels (less than 30%).

4. Store in an airtight container

It is best to keep it in an airtight container to prevent moisture and dust from entering the thermal paper. This will help preserve its chemical coating and prevent contamination from affecting its quality.

5. Check the expiration date

Every thermal paper roll has a manufacturer’s recommended expiration date printed on the package, so check this before storing your paper rolls for long-term use. If you need to store them for longer than the recommended time frame, consider purchasing sealed packages with extended shelf life.

By following these tips on how to store thermal paper properly, you can ensure that your thermal paper remains in good condition and can print quality images and text.

However, even with proper storage conditions, it is important to keep an eye on your thermal paper rolls as they are still susceptible to fading, discoloration and other signs of degradation over time. So be sure to inspect them periodically and replace any rolls that show signs of damage or wear. Keeping your thermal paper stored properly will help you get the most out of it for longer.

When handling thermal paper, be careful to not spread hand cleaner on the thermal coating.  Also, never fold or crease the paper when storing or printing, as this can cause damage to the surface coating, which can lead to poor printing results. Nevertheless, with proper storage and handling, thermal paper can be a great tool for printing, so follow these tips on how to store thermal paper.