This first edition is going to attempt to familiarize you with
the differences that exist with Mechanical Binding. This will
be a two-part newsletter, with the first edition focused mainly
on Spiral Binding. The second edition
to this series will address Wire-O / Twin-Loop
Binding, and Punching Patterns.
Along with Punch Patterns, we also have a chart available for
you on punching patterns and margin allowances. This chart would
be helpful for designers, as well as pre-press personnel, to keep
words and copy from getting punch holes through it. You may click
the chart on the right or click
here to visit our webpage for complete information and charts.
Spiral Binding - Plastic & Metal
There are two main material differences that exist when you ask
for Spiral Binding. They are more specifically "Plastic Spiral
Binding" and "Metal Spiral Binding". Each element
has the physical similarity to a spring, but the
materials that make up the element are either of plastic or metal.
They both have advantages.
"Metal
Spiral Binding" starts out in the bindery
as a 700-pound spool of raw wire, and is formed into its shape
as it is driven through the punched holes in the binding edge.
The wire has a lower material cost, because the final forming
takes place during installation into the books. The products that
you commonly use Metal Spiral are Calendars, Educational Books,
and smaller Reference Guides. One disadvantage of Metal versus
Plastic is crushability. If the element is smashed or stepped
on, its shape is usually ruined.
"Plastic
Spiral Binding" starts out in the bindery
by an order being placed for the exact size and color specific
to each job. The elements are pre-formed at the manufacturer into
the spring shape, and shipped into Wrap-Ups. These elements are
spun by a machine through the punched holes of the book. When
the element reaches the end of the book, the spinning stops and
knives will cut and crimp each end of the element.
Plastic Spiral Binding has excellent crushability factors, for
it can always maintain its original shape. The elements are much
safer with respect to the cut ends, so they are better for applications
in Children's Books, Cook Books, and Street Guides. Any type of
Mechanical Binding that usually results in frequent utilization
should consider Plastic Spiral Binding for its durability.
Stay tuned for next month's edition on
Wire-O,
or
Twin-Loop as it is sometimes called.
We will also get into a deeper knowledge of product size and punch
pattern implications.
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