Heat, Pressure, and Paper
The amount of heat and pressure used by a laser copier or printer to fuse toner to the page of paper can vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer. However, typically, the fusing process involves temperatures of around 200-220 degrees Celsius (392-428 degrees Fahrenheit) and pressures of around 40-80 pounds per square inch (psi). If you reach 451 degrees Fahrenheit paper will burn.
During the fusing process, the toner is melted and then bonded to the paper by the heat and pressure. The fuser unit, which is responsible for the fusing process, consists of two heated rollers that apply pressure to the paper as it passes through.
It's important to note that the exact temperature and pressure used may vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer of the printer, and may also be influenced by factors such as the type of paper being used.
After paper passes through a copier fuser, it comes out of the machine with the toner fused onto the paper. The toner is melted and bonded to the paper by the heat and pressure applied by the fuser rollers.
The fusing process causes the toner particles to be embedded into the fibers of the paper, creating a permanent image. As the paper cools down after passing through the fuser, the toner solidifies and becomes a part of the paper.
It's worth noting that the fuser rollers can become quite hot during the fusing process, so it's important to handle printed sheets with care after they come out of the machine to avoid any risk of burns.
The fusing process in a copier or printer can cause some changes to the characteristics of the paper, including its moisture content. Here are some of the ways in which paper may be affected by the fusing process:
Moisture Content: The heat and pressure applied during the fusing process can cause the moisture content of the paper to decrease. This can be more noticeable in humid environments, where the paper may absorb moisture from the air and then lose it during the fusing process.
Curling: Depending on the specific copier or printer, the fusing process may cause the paper to curl slightly. This can be more noticeable on thinner or lighter weight papers. The curling can be caused by the heat applied to one side of the paper, which can cause it to expand and contract unevenly.
Smoothness: The fusing process can also affect the smoothness of the paper. If the heat and pressure are too high or too low, the toner may not fuse evenly to the paper, resulting in a rough or uneven surface.
Color: The fusing process can also affect the color of the paper. If the paper is too moist or too dry, it may not absorb the toner evenly, resulting in areas of lighter or darker color.
Strength: The fusing process can also affect the strength of the paper. If the heat and pressure are too high, the paper may become brittle and more prone to tearing or breaking.
It's important to note that the extent of these changes may vary depending on the specific copier or printer, the type of paper being used, and other factors such as the temperature and humidity of the environment.
Heat free inkjet printing does not require any fusing. In fact, other than to move the paper through the machine the printing process of heat free inkjet printing never touches the paper. In addition to saving tons of energy by keeping fuser units ready to go, heat free inkjet printing does not damage the paper. This is especially important if you plan on processing the paper again through any mailing or folding device.
