How does one reduce static electricity when printing on the Neuralog Callisto Well Log Printer?
Fanfold well log paper can hold static electricity, especially in cold dry climates. This static buildup can lead to printing problems as the electrically-charged paper is fed into the printer. This article contains pointers for removing the static charge from the paper, before it enters the printer.
Static electricity can interfere with all types of printing processes, especially in cold, dry climates when the paper is moving at a fast pace. For the Callisto printer, excessive static may lead to errors such as Pen Safety Failure or Printhead Electrical Failure. While there are preventative modifications that can be made to the printer, removing static from the well log paper itself can greatly help with static issues. Take the following actions to reduce static and avoid related printing issues.
✅ Prepare the paper (most important)
- Remove the paper from the box to avoid additional static creation
- Take the entire stack out. The paper rubbing against the edge of the box can cause additional static.
- Loosen the paper folds to break the static cling
- Lightly fan the stack side‑to‑side for paper that has been removed from the box.
- For a new paper box, turn the box upside down, and then reset it upright before removing the paper from the box.
- Gently fan the paper by hand to discharge static and restore proper fold separation.
- Align the paper edges when loading the printer
- Align both edges evenly so the paper feeds straight into the printer and does not rub excessively against the sides of the guide.
- Let the paper acclimate
- Leave paper out of sealed packaging for 15–30 minutes in the print room before printing.
- Well log paper can build static quickly when moved from cold or dry storage.
✅ How to load paper correctly on a Callisto
- Ensure the paper stack is fully supported at the paper entrance below the printer.
- The paper must feed straight into the printer — no pulling, twisting, or drag.
- Keep the fan‑fold stack centered with the feed path.
- Never let the paper hang or pull from the box; this increases static tension.
✅ Environment matters
- Ideal humidity: 40–60%
- Very dry rooms are the #1 cause of static issues with Callisto printers!
- If needed:
- Use a small humidifier near (not inside) the printer area.
- Avoid placing the printer near HVAC vents.
✅ Operator best practices (field‑proven)
- Ground yourself before handling paper (touch a metal surface).
- Avoid synthetic gloves or clothing when loading paper.
- Do not over‑compress the fan‑fold stack in the box.
- Store paper flat, sealed, and away from heat sources.
For most well log printing, no special paper preparation is necessary. However, for cold, dry climates, taking extra precautions against static electricity can keep your printer healthy and your well logs printing.

