calander

A worker uses a calander to smooth a sheet of plastic.

Definition

1. Noun:

   • A machine for smoothing or glazing paper or cloth: In technical contexts, a "calander" (often spelled "calender") is a machine equipped with rollers that applies pressure and sometimes heat to materials such as paper or fabric to give them a smooth, glossy finish.
   • The process of calendering: Occasionally, "calander" can refer to the act or process of using such a machine.

2. Verb:

   • To smooth or glaze using a calander: The verb form means to process material (e.g., paper or cloth) through a calander to achieve a polished surface.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The paper mill installed a new calander to improve the quality of its printing paper. (A machine that smooths paper.)
  • After passing through the calander, the fabric had a lustrous sheen. (The machine used for glazing cloth.)

• Verb:

  • The factory will calander the linen to make it suitable for high-end upholstery. (To smooth the fabric using a calander.)
  • This type of paper is specially calandered to reduce ink absorption. (Processed through a calander for a glossy finish.)

Advanced Usage

• "Calander finish": A specific surface finish achieved by calendering.

  • The brochure was printed on paper with a calander finish, giving it a professional look. (A smooth, glossy surface from the machine.)

• "Calandering" (gerund): The act or process of using a calander.

  • Calandering is a critical step in the production of high-quality coated papers. (The industrial process of smoothing.)

Variants and Related Words

• Calender (n, v): A common alternative spelling of "calander," used interchangeably in technical contexts.

  • The calender machine requires regular maintenance to ensure consistent results. (The same machine as calander.)

• Calendered (adj): Describing material that has been processed through a calander.

  • Calendered paper is often used for magazines and catalogs. (Paper with a smooth finish.)

Synonyms

• Smoothing machine: A general term for equipment that reduces surface roughness.
• Glazing machine: A device that imparts a glossy finish.
• Roller press: A machine that uses rollers to apply pressure.

Phrasal Verbs

• Calander down: (rare) To process material through a calander to reduce thickness or increase smoothness.
  • The technician will calander down the fabric to meet the specifications. (To thin and smooth using the machine.)

Related Idioms

• "Run through the calander": (technical jargon) To subject something to the calendering process.
  • Before packaging, the sheets are run through the calander for a final polish. (Processed through the machine.)