Plotter Paper

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Most people have no idea what plotter paper is or what it is used for. This is because it is more common for engineers to use for their designs and blueprints. Another reason is that plotter papers are used in special machines, called plotter machines, which are able to print out the technical schematics with precision using drafting programs like AutoCAD. Even though technology has come a long way with digital tables, it is not practical to have one at a job site.

Plotter paper comes in many styles, but their overall purpose is for printing vector type designs by the plotter printer. The machine itself has a special pen that it draws the designs according to the computer representation that the engineer created. When you buy plotter paper it usually comes in giant rolls. The plotting machine itself only accepts rolls and has a drum that the paper roll can be spooled on to.

However, there is also a flatbed version of the plotter machine that does accept flat sheet plotter papers. This is quite unique and is only used by a limited amount of companies since it is an expensive piece of equipment. This machine uses toner, like that used for laser printers, and electro static electricity to fuse the toner to the paper in the design specified on the computer. The benefit of this method is that a better quality design can be drawn and the big bulky rolls of paper can be done with.

Plotter papers also have different usage types just like home printing paper. There is inkjet, the pen, laser, and electro static usages as already mentioned. The most common type is called bond plotter paper. The reason why this is so common is because it can be used with a variety of different methods which means engineers don't have to worry about having a special type of machine to work with their paper. Many companies are unable to afford the expensive plotting machines. Bond plotter papers come in rolls of about 50 yards and can measure 24 - 46 inches in width.

Vellum is a type of inkjet plotter paper. This one is, of course, used for inkjet machines. The inkjet plotter is often used for rough drafts that are colored in blue. While they can produce other colors, this is where the name "blue prints" comes in. There is also a translucent version which can be layered on other papers, but it is much more expensive.

There is also a glossy, or presentation, plotter paper. Since the pen drawing method creates perfect lines which show up boldly over the other lines, it is often used on this type of paper. This makes it another popular choice of plotter papers since it shows off quality and professionalism.