While putting together a presentation or an important document, all of us want it to look as professional and pristine as possible. These are the times when a binding machine can do the job for us. Documents created by binding machines are aesthetically pleasing, easy to read, and can be carried around very easily. If you don’t have much idea about these machines and how to use them, this brief article is a must read for you.
You may find it difficult to believe, but binding machines have been around since as early as the 18th century. Use of adhesives in binding started in the early part of 20th century. However, the use of binding machines as office essentials started in the 1950s. There was further progress in this field in the 80s, with the advent of thermoplastic polymer adhesives.
As with any invention, the basic binding machine model has improved and diversified significantly over the years. Many different types of binding machines are available nowadays, with their own distinctive properties and capabilities.
Here are the most common types of binding machines to choose from.
- Comb binding machines function by punching holes in the paper’s long edge and inserting plastic spines commonly referred to as comb.
- Wire binding machines are one of the most commonly used binding machines. They also punch holes along the long edge of the papers, and hold them together by inserting a wire spiral.
- The same punch-and-bind mechanism is used by coil or spiral binder machines. However, the spiral holding everything together is made from plastic.
- A special type of glue is used by thermal binding machines, instead of punching holes and inserting spines. These binders provide high quality binding that is almost comparable to publisher quality binding.
How to Use Binding Machines
Learning paper binding using a binding machine is a simple process. However, the process is not the same for all types of machines.
- Comb Binders: Use of these binders involves a three-part process. The first step is setting-up the machine to accept a specific paper size and punch the required number of holes for accepting the spine. Once this is done, the comb is inserted into the comb holder. The machine is ready to accept the sheets when the lever is pulled back. When the holes are punched, you just have to put the paper into the comb holder and close the comb by returning the lever to its original position.
- Wire Binders: The usage procedure for wire binding is similar. First, use the he correct wire binding punch pattern to punch the sheet. Now, the wire coil should be fed into the punched holes before closing the wire coils by popping the entire document into the binder. Please remember that unlike comb binding, wire binding process is irreversible.
- Coil Binding Machines: Binding machines using plastic coils should be used a little differently. The process for punching is similar, but the next stage involves twisting a part of the coil manually before it is put into the machines. Once the coil is fitted completely, any overhang may have to be trimmed away.
- Thermal Binding Machines: Specialist binding covers are required for these machines. The papers are held together by the cover’s inner spine lined with a thermoactive adhesive. While inserting papers into the binding cover make sure that the pages are exactly where they should be. Now, insert the assembled booklet into the machine’s heating slot. Finally, choose your time cycle based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
At RENZ Australia, we have an exquisite range of binding machines and equipment suitable for all your binding requirements. Please contact us today to find out more.