Frequently Asked Questions About Unibind Thermal Binding

If you're in the market for a new binding system, you have lots of choices ranging from comb to wire binding. However, one binding style you should definitely check out is Unibind. This is a unique thermal binding method that uses specialized supplies so you can make your documents look their best. Here are the most frequently asked questions about Unibind so you can decide if it's right for you:

• What is Unibind? Unibind is a thermal binding system that was developed in Belgium. These machines use special Unibind supplies that have a metal strip in the spine. When the spine comes into contact with the machine's heating element, the adhesive is activated and your work will be bound.

• How many books can a Unibind machine bind at once? A machine's binding capacity really depends on how many heating units it has. The XU138 only has one heating element, so it's not able to bind as many books at once as the XU338, which has three heaters. Also, the binding capacity will vary depending on the thickness of your documents. The thinner your documents, the more you will be able to bind at once.

• How long does a binding cycle take? One of the reasons why Unibind systems are so popular is that they can bind documents quickly. These machines don't need to warm up before use and they can complete a binding cycle in about 30 seconds.

• What supplies will I need? You will need to use specialized Unibind supplies with your machine. Here is a quick look at what's available:

  • Steel crystal covers feature clear plastic covers. These supplies are great if you want to give your document a customized title page.

  • Steelback spines. If you want to use your own covers, these spines are perfect. They come with paper covers that are attached to the spine. Just tear them off and substitute your own covers.

  • Steelmat covers. These supplies feature frosted front and back covers. When the covers are pressed against paper, you will be able to see the text of your document.

  • Steelbook hardcovers. If you really want to make your work look professional, you should use these covers. A hardcover document is always sure to impress your audience.

  • Photobooks. Finally, these supplies are meant for binding photo albums. A number of different sizes and finishes are available.

  • Also, don't forget you will need paper on which to print your documents. Make sure your printer has enough ink/toner so it can properly finish the job.

• How thick can my documents be? Unibind supplies are designed to bind work that's up to 1.5" thick. In other words, your documents can be up to 340 pages in length.

• Can a Unibind system do any other types of binding? Unfortunately, no. Unibind machines can only do thermal binding. However, thermal binding is one of the most elegant document finishing methods and it can make your work look like it was bound by a professional. Thermal binding is suitable for all kinds of documents, ranging from financial reports to photo books.

Those are the most frequently asked questions about Unibind. Hopefully they'll help you decide if it's the right binding style for you. Good luck!