For companies who bind large numbers of books
and documents, an interchangeable die binding punch is a logical
choice. However, not all modular punches are the same
and trying to discern the differences between the different models can
sometimes be difficult. This article is designed to provide you with
five tips for choosing a modular binding punch.
For companies who bind large numbers of books
and documents, an interchangeable die binding punch is a logical
choice. These heavy duty binding machines are designed for high volume
punching applications and allow you to quickly and easily change hole
patterns in just seconds. However, not all modular punches are the same
and trying to discern the differences between the different models can
sometimes be difficult. This article is designed to provide you with
five tips for choosing a modular binding punch.
Look for the punching capacity. Some models are capable of
punching as many as 55 sheets per lift. Others are only capable of
handling 15-20 sheets. Most fall somewhere in between. Depending on the
volume of binding that your organization does, you may or not need an
extremely large capacity. When choosing a punch, it is important to
remember that you shouldn't punch the full capacity of the machine with
every lift. You should also recognize that depending on the hole
pattern that you choose, the capacity might be less than the maximum
(patterns with more holes will result in a reduction in the number of
sheets that can be handled at one time).
Consider the maximum length offered by the punch. Some
models are fourteen inches wide so that they can be used with legal
sized documents. However, many are only capable of handling letter size
documents. If you plan on binding legal size documents you will want a
fourteen inch throat. If you need to bind larger documents you will
want to make sure that you get an open throat.
Figure out how difficult it will be to change the dies.
The best models allow users to simply slide dies in and out of the side
of the machine. With these machines, changing dies takes only a few
seconds. However, other machines require loosening bolts and thumb
screws in order to change dies. These machines take much longer to
change over and are not ideal for print shops or organizations where
frequent die changes are required.
Do you prefer a vertical or a horizontal punching
mechanism? Some modular machines have a horizontal punching throat
allowing you to insert the document into the front of the machine.
Others have a vertical punching slot requiring users to insert their
pages into the top of the machine. Each style has its strengths and
weaknesses and some users swear by each style. Personally, I find the
horizontal throat to be more efficient than the vertical throat.
How
fast is the punching cycle on the punch that you are considering?
Larger modular binding punches have continuous cycle motors with
incredibly fast punching cycles. These machines require fractions of a
second to punch a document. Other models have slower cycles and can
take a couple of seconds to punch. Although this doesn't seem like a
long time, it makes a huge difference in the productivity that you get
from your machine.
With these five things in mind, you are now prepared to choose a
modular binding punch that will fit your needs. Take a look at the
options, compare the features and choose the machine that is right for
your needs. Just remember to compare other features such as
manufacturer reputation, warranty and of course price.
Jeff McRitchie is the designer and Director of Marketing for MyBinding.com. He has written over 100 articles on binding machines, binding covers, binding supplies,laminators,laminating supplies,paper handling equipments,binders,index tabs, and shredders.
