Wire binding machines are becoming one of the more preferred forms of binding for booklets and reports. Wire binding machines, often referred to as twin-loop wire binding, use a special type of wire element to keep dozens to hundreds of sheets bound together. The tricky part of finding the right wire-binding machine is sifting through the different terms and determining which of the three wire binding hole formats is the right one.
To start, wire binding machines are available in three different hole formats / alignments. These are referred to commonly in the binding industry as the "pitch." The three pitches wire binding comes in are 3:1, 2:1 and Spiral-O. The 3:1 pitch format has three holes punched per inch of paper. The 2:1 pitch format has two holes punched per inch of paper. The Spiral-O format has a total of 19 holes along the 11-inch side of an 8 ½ x 11-inch sheet of paper.
These three different hole formats use three entirely different types of binding elements. These elements are not interchangeable between different format machines. The "pitch" terminology, with regards to wire binding, is probably the most difficult thing to learn. Once you realize there are three different punching patterns, and what they are, you are ready to start looking at individual machines. Be aware that, however uncommon, some wire binding machines include multiple punching dies that allow them to punch 2:1 & 3:1 or a combination of all three.
The pitch you choose depends on the look you prefer and how thick the books need to be. There is give and take between the punching formats. A 3:1 pitch has more holes, and thus more loops. Many people like the "tight" look of the 3:1 pitch. A 2:1 pitch, because the holes are spaced farther apart, is perfect for binding thicker books and allows the pages to turn more easily. The Spiral-O is a good format if you will also be comb-binding books. The 19-hole punch format of the Spiral-O wire is exactly the same as comb binding.
Once you have determined your preferred wire binding "pitch," you will need to determine how many sheets you want to be able to punch at a time and whether or not you want electric or manual punching in your machine. For high-volume jobs, it is usually recommended to go with an electric machine. Electric punches help cut down on fatigue. Manual punch machines are perfect for low- to medium-volume jobs.
Some wire binding machines feature something called disengageable or disengaging punching dies. This feature allows the user to selectively disable specific punches to accommodate odd sizes of paper. It helps to eliminate half holes on the edges of paper. If you only plan on punching and binding standard 8 ½ x 11-inch paper, this feature is not necessary.
Once the holes have been punched by the wire-binding machine, the binding element is inserted through the holes. The wire binding machine, by use of a wire closer, bends the wire-binding element shut. The end result looks professional. Most wire binding machines will include a wire closer. This is a great binding machine to use in a copy shop, college, school, church or business.
Many ask which brand or model is the preferred choice. While there is no "best" binding machine, the brand Akiles has grown a name for itself as some of the more reliable and dependable binding machines on the market. For more information on wire binding machines, please contact OfficeZone.com.
Dave Stuart is an industry expert on binding machines.
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