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What is a paper cup fan, and how is it different from a regular paper cup

A paper cup fan, also known as a paper cup blank or a cup sleeve, is a flat, pre-cut piece of paperboard that serves as the starting material for manufacturing paper cups. It is an essential component in the production of disposable paper cups. Here's how it differs from a regular paper cup:
Form and Shape:
Paper Cup Fan: A paper cup fan is typically a flat, circular or oval-shaped piece of paperboard. It does not have the three-dimensional cup shape that you see in a finished paper cup.
Regular Paper Cup: A regular paper cup is a fully formed, cylindrical or conical cup with a bottom and sides. It is the end product created from the paper cup fan.
Purpose:
Paper Cup Fan: The primary purpose of a paper cup fan is to serve as the starting material for creating paper cups. It is printed, cut, and shaped into a cup during the manufacturing process.
Regular Paper Cup: A regular paper cup is the final product used for holding liquids like beverages (e.g., coffee, tea, soda) or dry goods. It is designed for single-use or multiple uses depending on the type and intended application.
Size and Dimensions:
Paper Cup Fan: Paper cup fans come in various sizes, typically ranging from small to large, depending on the intended cup size. They are flat and do not have a fixed volume.
Regular Paper Cup: Regular paper cups have specific sizes and capacities, usually measured in ounces or milliliters, and they are designed to hold a certain volume of liquid or food.
Printing and Branding:
Paper Cup Fan: Paper cup fans are often printed with branding, logos, and design elements. These graphics serve as the template for the design that will appear on the final paper cup.
Regular Paper Cup: The graphics and branding on a regular paper cup are derived from the printed design on the paper cup fan during the cup-forming process.