INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE
Preventing Cup Softening When Holding Ice-Cold Beverages
Cold drink cups face a frequent challenge: condensation forms on the outer wall when ice is present, which can weaken low-density paper if the material is not engineered correctly. To prevent softening, manufacturers choose high-stiffness paperboard with strong wet-strength additives. Coatings also play a role—single or double PE layers, or newer aqueous barrier coatings, create a hydrophobic surface that resists moisture absorption. Proper fiber bonding and calibrated coating thickness ensure the cup stays firm even during prolonged use with iced beverages.
Why Cold Drink Cups Require Different Coatings Than Hot Cups
Cold paper cups rely on barrier coatings designed to handle moisture rather than heat. For iced drinks, the coating must prevent water penetration caused by condensation and melting ice. PE coatings remain the market standard for their water resistance and smooth surface, while newer water-based coatings support improved recyclability. Compared with hot cups, cold cups typically use a slightly thicker coating layer because humidity exposure is continuous, not momentary. This structural consideration helps reduce leakage, deformation, and blistering during chilling conditions.
Designing Leak-Proof Cup Bottoms for Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated beverages exert outward pressure on cup walls and especially on cup bottoms. To address this, manufacturers optimize the bottom curl and employ precision sealing technology that prevents escape of liquid and gas. Reinforced bottom structures combine tighter folding angles with heat-seal coatings to lock the base securely. During testing, cups are filled with pressurized water to simulate carbonation pressure, ensuring the bottom maintains integrity even when shaken or filled quickly in fast-service environments.
Insulation Considerations for Cold Drinks Served With Ice
Although Paper Cold Drink Cups do not require thermal insulation to protect hands from heat, they must reduce external condensation that leads to slippery surfaces. Some designs incorporate micro-textured or matte coatings to improve grip even when the cup becomes wet. In addition, slightly thicker paperboard helps maintain wall strength despite temperature shifts. Brands selling extra-large cold beverages sometimes pair cups with absorbent paper wraps to further control moisture for customers on the go.
How Cup Shape Affects Ice Dispensing in Quick-Service Restaurants
Cold paper cups used in fast-service chains must interact efficiently with automated ice dispensers. The taper angle of the cup, rim diameter, and structural rigidity determine how smoothly the cup enters the dispenser cavity and withstands the force of falling ice. A steeper taper allows quicker release of stacked cups, while a reinforced rim prevents deformation when ice hits the cup’s edge at high speed. Operators often request custom sizing to match specific dispenser models and reduce customer wait time.
Material Selection for Large-Volume Cold Drink Cups
Extra-large Disposable Cups for Cold Drinks—often 22 oz, 32 oz, or even 44 oz—require sturdier paper to support both liquid weight and ice load. Paperboard with higher GSM and long-fiber composition improves rigidity and reduces risk of buckling. Double-coated surfaces are often used to handle prolonged moisture contact, while reinforced side seams ensure the cup can withstand squeezing during transport. Engineers test vertical compression strength and sidewall rigidity to validate performance for high-volume servings.
Comparing Coating Technologies for Cold Drink Applications
Different coating options influence recyclability, moisture resistance, and cost. Below is a comparison of commonly used coating technologies for cold drink cups.
| Coating Type | Key Advantages | Typical Application |
| Single PE Coating | Strong moisture resistance; cost-effective | Standard cold drinks, iced teas, juices |
| Double PE Coating | Superior durability and leak protection | Large-size drinks & long-duration use |
| Water-Based Coating | Improved recyclability; eco-friendly performance | Sustainable product lines |
Ensuring Print Durability Under Condensation
Paper Cups for Cold Drinks are constantly exposed to moisture, which can fade ink or cause smudging if printing is not optimized. To ensure durability, brands often use water-resistant inks and apply printing before coating, so the protective layer seals the artwork. UV-curable inks are particularly effective because they resist humidity and maintain sharpness even when the surface becomes cold and wet. For full-wrap graphics, alignment is carefully controlled to avoid distortions caused by cup curvature.