Simple channel binding (also referred to as MetalBind) is a binding style that uses U-shaped metal channels to bind documents. The bind is created by crimping the spine slightly using a simple channel binding machine. Unlike most other binding methods, simple channel binding does not utilize punching or gluing to create a secure bind. Instead, it uses the pressure created by the crimped metal spine to hold the pages in place. Below is a brief overview of binding with the MetalBind system:
- Slide the adjusting lever on the front of the machine to the far left, and move the arm into the upright position.
- Select the correct spine size based on the thickness of your document, and insert it into the binding machine (following the instructions for your model).
- Move the adjusting lever to the right until you feel slight resistance.
- Place your document between the binding covers of your choice. Simple channel binding strips can be used with your choice of traditional soft covers or specially-designed hard covers.
- Insert the document into the binding machine so that the edges of the paper align with the edges of the spine and the back cover faces you.
- While holding the document in place, pull the machine’s handle to crimp the spine.
- Slide the adjusting lever back to the left and remove your document from the machine.