I often get calls from customers asking me to help them decide which comb binding machine would best suit their needs. With dozens of combination machines available from manufacturers such as GBC / Ibico, Akiles, Tamerica, Renz, and Rhin-O-Tuff, it can be difficult to discern which binding machine will be the best fit for your binding needs. However, it's much easier to understand which machine might be best once you've decided which features might be important to you. Here's a quick rundown of some of the features you might want to consider when looking for a comb binding machine:
Machine Design:
One of the most important features to consider is the machine design. Many bottom binding machines are made of plastic. These machines are suitable for smaller volume applications, but may not hold up as well under heavy use. A comb binding machine made of metal is always a good bet.
Electric vs. Manual:
When deciding on a comb binding machine, it is also important to decide between a manual punch and an electric punch. This decision will have a huge impact on the price range of binding machines you are looking at. However, most electric machines are better suited for higher volume applications and can save a significant amount of time over their manual tying machine counterparts. It is important to note that there are some smaller electric machines available that are designed to facilitate the punching process and not increase production speed (the GBC C110e is an example of a smaller volume electric punch).
Punching Capacity:
Another third important feature to consider when choosing a comb binding machine is the punching capacity. Some of the smaller comb binders have a punch capacity of as little as 6 sheets of 20lb bond paper. However, some modular electric binding punches can punch up to 50 sheets of 20lb binding per stroke. Depending on the size of your books and the number of books you want to bind, punch capacity can be very important. However, it is important to note that for the long life of your machine, it is best not to punch out the full capacity indicated in the manual. Additionally, we have found that users are usually faster when punching a consistent number of sheets per punch, typically 15 to 20 sheets for our highest volume users.
Detachable Punches:
A fourth factor that is important to consider when choosing a combing machine is whether it has detachable punches. Comb binding machines with removable punches allow their user to disconnect any of the punches on the machine. By disconnecting the die, your machine can be used to bind documents that are less than 11″ in length. If you ever plan to bind documents that are shorter or longer than 11 inches, a machine with removable dies is essential.
Brand:
It is also really important to consider the manufacturer when choosing a comb binding machine. GBC / Ibico is the biggest name in the binding machine industry and manufactures excellent binding machines. However, the Akiles, Tamerica, Renz and Rhin-O-Tuff tying machines are also excellent. Although other brands may also warrant consideration, these names are some of the best in the business and their quality is exceptional.
Warranty:
The last factor that is important to consider when choosing a comb binding machine is its warranty. Warranties for tiedowns vary widely. However, if there is a problem with your binding machine, it is important to have warranty protection. This is especially true for lower manual comb machines, which are usually more expensive to repair than to replace.
You must be logged in to post a comment.