Paper Folder Terms



Anti-static Strip
Eliminates static build-up, allowing carbonless stock to be processed.

Automatic Feed
The paper folder automatically pulls paper from a pile rather than having the user manually feed each sheet individually. Load a stack of documents into the feeder and they will automatically be friction or vacuum fed into the machine.

Batch Mode
The user has the ability to program the machine's counter to feed only a certain number of documents into the paper folder at a time.

Bottom Feed
Rollers on the folder pull paper from the bottom of the pile rather than the top. This process allows for easy reloading of documents without interrupting operation, simply place more paper on the top of the stack and there is no risk of disrupting the folding process.

Catch Tray
You will find this feature on a number of paper folders. The catch tray is a simple device that receives the folded papers as they exit the paper folder.

Coated Paper
This type of paper is actually much like it sounds. Coated paper is composed of a base sheet that is covered on one or both sides with a finishing layer.

Counter
Often called a batch counter, this device allows the user to see how many documents have been processed with an easy to read digital output. Some of these counters may be re-settable back to zero while some are not.

Conveyor Belt
Some paper folder will have a conveyor belt to aid in the folding process. This belt will grab the folded paper and carry it out of the paper folder in an orderly manner.

Drop-In Feed System
This system eliminates the need to fan paper out before loading it into your paper folder. All you need to do is square up the corners and place it into the feeder.

Double-Sheet Detection
This unique feature available on some paper folders prevents two sheets from being folded together, only allowing a single sheet to be fed at a time.

Fan/Fanning
To fan paper, hold onto a stack with both hands and allow it to slightly angle. Hold the paper and bend it into a "u" or "c" shape. Hold one end of the paper and shuffle the other and it will fan or angle.

Fold Plate
This is what the paper folder actually uses to produce your desired fold. Adjusting the folding plate allows the user to customize folds by adjusting the length and width of each fold. Some paper folders will require manual adjustment, while higher-end models are equipped with automatically adjusting fold plates.

Fold Range
Different paper folders will have different fold ranges. This term refers to the amount and variety of paper sizes a paper folder can fold.

Friction Feed
A friction feed paper folder utilizes rollers to transfer paper into the machines. These machines are not suitable for glossy paper and other coated stocks.

Manual Feed
A manual feed folder requires that the paper be fed by hand into the machine one sheet at a time.

Paper Tray
This is where the paper is placed before it is folded. Paper folders will have different sizes of trays which will accept different amounts of paper.

Paper Weight
The weight of the paper you are using is a measurement of its thickness. Different paper folders will have different abilities as to which paper weights they can handle. All folders will be able to fold 20 pound paper.

Pass
A pass is completed when a single sheet of paper runs through a folding machine one complete time.

Perforate
Some paper folders will have a perforating function. Perforators will punch lines of small holes across a piece of paper, allowing for ease of separation. Documents like bills and checks are commonly perforated.

Pound
Often seen as the # sign. Refers to the thickness of the paper. Different paper folders have the ability to fold different paper weights. All folders can fold 20-pound paper and most product specs are based off of this weight.

Precision-Cut Gears
These are gears that are machine-cut, and not manufactured from a mold.

Pre-Set Fold Settings
This term refers to the standard fold styles that are pre-programmed into a folding machine.

Pressure-Seal
This type of folder exerts pressure on pre-applied adhesive to create a secure seal without using water or heat.

Score
Some folders are capable of scoring material. Scoring paper leaves parallel creases across the paper's surface in order to assist in folding.

Skew
A term referring to how well the paper lines up after it has been folded. Off-skewed documents have the appearance of a crooked fold. Some folders will come with precise controls that allow the user to adjust the skew.

Skewed Paper Side Guides
These are guides on a paper folder that adjust for varying paper sizes.

Slit
A slitter will cut paper into narrow strips. Some paper folders have a slitting feature which basically looks like a pizza cutter and has the ability to cut paper in half.

Stack Capacity
The stack capacity is the amount of paper that can be placed into a paper folder's paper tray.

Top-Feed
Most folders are top-feed folders. Friction feed rollers in the paper folder pull paper from the top of the stack.

Vacuum Feed
This type of paper folder utilizes air suction to transfer paper into the machine. This method of feeding allows specially printed stocks, glossy paper, and other coated papers to be folded.