If you have any needs pls contact me-
Whatsapp number of Ivy: +86 18933516049 (My Wechat +86 18933510459)
Email me: 01@songhongpaper.com
The grammage of printing paper-defined as the mass per unit area, typically expressed in grams per square meter (g/m²)-is a critical metric for evaluating paper thickness, density, and suitability for specific applications. To meet diverse requirements in printing, writing, and packaging, paper is systematically categorized according to its basis weight. This classification facilitates informed selection across various professional and industrial contexts. The following sections provide a detailed analysis of these categories and their practical implications.
Lightweight Paper (Below 60 g/m²)
Lightweight paper, characterized by low mass and thin caliper, is primarily used for everyday office tasks such as printing, photocopying, and handwriting. Due to its cost-effectiveness and adequate performance, it represents the most commonly utilized paper type in administrative and educational environments. This category includes dictionary paper (typically under 50 g/m²), which is designed for high-page-count reference books where reduced bulk is essential, as well as offset printing paper and newsprint, which generally range between 50 and 80 g/m². These papers are particularly suited for short-run printed materials such as newspapers, flyers, and internal documents where durability is not a primary concern.
Medium-weight Paper (60–120 g/m²)
Medium-weight paper occupies an intermediate position in terms of grammage and offers a balanced combination of strength, flexibility, and print quality. Common types within this range include standard offset paper, writing paper, and kraft paper. With a typical basis weight spanning 60 to 120 g/m², this category is widely employed in the production of instruction manuals, letters, envelopes, exercise books, and diaries. Its enhanced durability compared to lightweight paper makes it suitable for documents intended for regular handling while maintaining compatibility with standard printing equipment.
Heavyweight and Coated Paper (150–250 g/m²)
Paper in the 150–250 g/m² range is classified as heavyweight and is often coated to improve surface smoothness and ink receptivity. This category includes coated art paper and white board (available in white-core and yellow-core variants), both of which are extensively used in premium printing applications. These materials are ideal for producing high-quality printed items such as brochures, postcards, product catalogs, covers, and invitations. Their superior stiffness and visual appeal make them particularly effective in marketing and branding contexts.
High-grammage Paper and Board (>250 g/m²)
High-grammage paper, typically exceeding 250 g/m², is distinguished by its substantial thickness, rigidity, and durability. This category encompasses high-quality coated paper, white board (including gray-back and white-back types), and specialized cardstock. Such materials are commonly used in the manufacture of calendars, luxury packaging, business cards, and presentation folders. Additionally, paperboard-often defined as having a basis weight above 250 g/m²-is employed in structural applications such as hardcover book covers, rigid boxes, and protective packaging, where mechanical strength and aesthetic finish are paramount.
Notably, paper thickness is not strictly proportional to grammage. Variations in fiber composition, pulp processing, calendering techniques, and manufacturer specifications can result in differing caliper and tactile properties even among papers of identical basis weight. Consequently, direct comparisons based solely on grammage may be misleading without considering additional physical characteristics.
White Board Applications
White board, valued for its excellent dimensional stability, printability, and surface whiteness, is a preferred substrate for packaging and decorative print products, including gift boxes, labels, and retail bags. Its adaptability to both offset and digital printing processes further enhances its utility in high-end commercial applications.
In summary, the classification of paper by grammage enables precise alignment between material properties and functional requirements. From lightweight office paper to heavy-duty board, each category serves distinct purposes in communication, documentation, and design, reflecting the versatility and sophistication of modern paper manufacturing.
