Document Folders Key Terms

Learn the words you'll run into when shopping for document folders

By M. Worcester

Document folders are machines that can save you time and money by quickly folding hundreds of sheets of paper in just minutes. There are different types, and they have different features and parts. Knowing some of the vocabulary terms can help you choose the right one.

Different models have different kinds of feeds. They may perform the task of folding only, or they may fold and insert or fold and seal. In some cases, they may also perforate. It's good to know what types of folds a machine performs to make sure it's what you need for your purposes.

Feed

A feed refers to how and where the paper enters the folding machine. Machines can have automatic or manual feeds, air or suction feed, or top or bottom feed.
Try: Find a glossary of terms related to document folders at Office Zone.

Folder inserter or folder sealer

A folder inserter folds pages and then inserts them into envelopes. A folder sealer folds forms and seals them closed to create a self-mailer that you can mail without an envelope.
Try: Read an explanation of paper folder inserters and folder sealers and find how they work at Factory Express.

Half fold, C fold, Z fold

Most folders fold paper in half, called a half or V fold. There are also C and Z folds, which fold paper into three relatively equal panels. C folds like a typical letter, and Z is an accordion shape.
Try: Take a look at diagrams showing various types of paper folds at Heavenly Office.

Perforate

Some document folders have the ability to perforate paper. This means to punch holes in the paper so you can tear it neatly and easily.
Try: Browse through a glossary of words relating to document folders, including perforate, at General Graphic.

Tray

A paper tray is where you might put the paper that you want to fold. A catch tray is where the folded papers land when they come out of the folder. Take note of the size of the paper tray and whether or not a folder has a catch tray when you shop for a document folder.
Try: Read through this glossary with an explanation of trays, at the Paper Folder Store.

Roller

A roller is one of the most important parts of a document folder. It can become dirty or loose, resulting in poor performance. You can buy cleaners or replacement rollers, if necessary.
Try: Check out an example of document folder roller cleaner at MyBinding.com.