Five Tips for Choosing an Interchangeable Die Binding Punch

For companies who bind large numbers of booksand documents, an interchangeable die binding punch is a logicalchoice. However, not all modular punches are the sameand trying to discern the differences between the different models cansometimes be difficult. This article is designed to provide you withfive tips for choosing a modular binding punch.

For companies who bind large numbers of booksand documents, an interchangeable die binding punch is a logicalchoice. These heavy duty binding machines are designed for high volumepunching applications and allow you to quickly and easily change holepatterns in just seconds. However, not all modular punches are the sameand trying to discern the differences between the different models cansometimes be difficult. This article is designed to provide you withfive tips for choosing a modular binding punch.

1. Look for the punching capacity. Some models are capable ofpunching as many as 55 sheets per lift. Others are only capable ofhandling 15-20 sheets. Most fall somewhere in between. Depending on thevolume of binding that your organization does, you may or not need anextremely large capacity. When choosing a punch, it is important toremember that you shouldn't punch the full capacity of the machine withevery lift. You should also recognize that depending on the holepattern that you choose, the capacity might be less than the maximum(patterns with more holes will result in a reduction in the number ofsheets that can be handled at one time).
2. Consider the maximum length offered by the punch. Somemodels are fourteen inches wide so that they can be used with legalsized documents. However, many are only capable of handling letter sizedocuments. If you plan on binding legal size documents you will want afourteen inch throat. If you need to bind larger documents you willwant to make sure that you get an open throat.
3. 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 sideof the machine. With these machines, changing dies takes only a fewseconds. However, other machines require loosening bolts and thumbscrews in order to change dies. These machines take much longer tochange over and are not ideal for print shops or organizations wherefrequent die changes are required.
4. Do you prefer a vertical or a horizontal punchingmechanism? Some modular machines have a horizontal punching throatallowing you to insert the document into the front of the machine.Others have a vertical punching slot requiring users to insert theirpages into the top of the machine. Each style has its strengths andweaknesses and some users swear by each style. Personally, I find thehorizontal throat to be more efficient than the vertical throat.
5. Howfast is the punching cycle on the punch that you are considering?Larger modular binding punches have continuous cycle motors withincredibly fast punching cycles. These machines require fractions of asecond to punch a document. Other models have slower cycles and cantake a couple of seconds to punch. Although this doesn't seem like along time, it makes a huge difference in the productivity that you getfrom your machine.

With these five things in mind, you are now prepared to choose amodular binding punch that will fit your needs. Take a look at theoptions, compare the features and choose the machine that is right foryour needs. Just remember to compare other features such asmanufacturer reputation, warranty and of course price.

Article Tags: Five Tips, Binding Punch, Modular Binding, These Machines