How Do I Close Binding Wires with the Akiles WBM-532 Wire Closer?

The Akiles WBM-532 wire closer is a stand-alone wire closing module that can close 2:1 wires, 3:1 wires, and spiral-o wires (which fit the same 19-hole punch pattern as plastic binding combs). The WBM-532 can be used to add wire closing capabilities to any modular binding machine (such as the Akiles VersaMac) or to increase productivity by acting as a second binding workstation. Below is a step-by-step guide to closing wires with the Akiles WBM-532 wire closing module:

  1. If you are using your WBM-532 for the first time, you will need to begin by assembling it. Place it onto a flat, sturdy work surface and connect the closing handle certically onto the closing axle. Thread the screw through the handle and into the closing axle, then tighten in a clockwise direction until secured.
  2. Insert your document into the diameter scale to determine the appropriate wire size and wire closer setting.
  3. Set the wire closer control to match the diameter indicated by the diameter scale. Turn the knob located on the left side of the machine forward or backward as necessary to adjust the wire closer.
  4. If necessary, use the master selector to verify the size of your selected wire before binding.
  5. Place the appropriate wire onto the wire holder (located toward the front of the machine).
  6. Insert the document onto the wire, working from the last pages to the front cover. The back cover should be inserted last with the inside facing up in order to hide the seam of the binding wire for a professional finish.
  7. Lift the document and the wire off of the wire closer.
  8. Place the document into the wire closer so that the open side of the wire is flush against the bottom of the closing channel. Hold the pages of the document to keep the closing channel clear.
  9. Firmly pull the wire closer handle forward to close the wire, then return it to its upright position.
  10. Pull the bound document out of the wire closer. Turn the back cover to the back of the book to complete the bind.

How Do I Bind with the Akiles iWire Wire Binding Machine?

The Akiles iWire wire binding machine is a sleek and feature-packed wire binding machine that is specifically designed for small-to-medium office environments. The Akiles iWire is offered in two punch patterns – 3:1 pitch and 2:1 pitch – which both feature built-in wire closing units and have 15-sheet punching capacities. With its easy operation and durable construction, the iWire binding machine series is ideal for moderate-volume binding needs. Below is a step-by-step guide to binding books with the Akiles iWire wire binding machine (note: instructions below apply to both machine pitches):

  1. If you will be using your iWire binding machine for the first time, you will need to begin by assembiling it. Place it onto a sturdy work table and remove the screw from the punch axle (located on the right side of the machine) by turning it counterclockwise. Insert the punch handle onto the punch axle in a vertical position, thread the screw through the handle and the punch axle, and turn the screw clockwise to tighten.
  2. To begin the binding process, you must first determine the appropriate binding wire size based on the thickness of your document. Place your document into the built-in diameter selector to identify the best wire size.
  3. Set the wire closer opening to match the wire diameter provided by the diameter selector. Slide the wire closer control so that the diameter listed in the window corresponds to the size of wire being used.
  4. Adjust the side margin to match the size of your document. Use the sliding side margin control to center your document within the punching throat. It is recommended that you test the alignment using scrap paper and adjust as necessary before attempting to punch your document.
  5. Place the wire binding spine onto the built-in wire holder. This will allow you to insert the pages of your document onto the wire as they are punched.
  6. Insert up to 15 sheets (based on 20 lb. paper) into the punching throat so that they are aligned against the side margin. Pull the handle forward and then return it to its upright position in order to complete the punch. Remove the sheets and repeat as necessary to punch all pages of your document.
  7. Place the punched pages onto the binding wire. In order to hide the seam of the wire, it is recommended that you insert the pages face-up from last to first, then insert the front cover, and finally insert the back cover (with the inside of the cover facing up).
  8. Lift the wire and all of the inserted pages off of the wire holder and place the entire document into the wire closer. The opening of the wire should be flush against the bottom of the wire closer.
  9. Firmly pull the handle forward to close the wire. Release the handle to open the wire closer, then pull the completed book out of the closing channel.
  10. Flip the back cover around to the back of the book to hide the binding seam.

How Do I Bind with the Akiles CoilMac-M Coil Binding Machine?

The Akiles CoilMac-M coil binding machine is a cost-effective, all-manual coil binder that is built for heavy-duty use. The CoilMac-M is offered in two varieties – standard and Plus – which both have the same all-metal construction, user-friendly design, and 20-sheet punching capacity. Unlike the standard model which has 4mm round holes and five disengageable dies, the CoilMac-M41+ has 4mm x 5mm oval holes (for easier coil insertion and page turning) and fully-disengageable pins. Below is a step-by-step guide to binding books with the Akiles CoilMac-M coil binding machine (note: instructions below apply to both versions):

  1. If this is your first time using your CoilMac-M, begin by assembling it. Place it onto a sturdy, flat work surface and remove the screw from the punching axle (located on the right side of the machine). Insert the punching handle onto the axle in a vertical position. Thread the screw through the handle and the axle, then tighten the screw in a counterclockwise direction. Attach the coil inserting table onto the front of the machine or place it alongside, whichever is more convenient for your usage.
  2. Use the coil size guide to determine the correct depth margin and coil diameter based on the thickness of your document. To adjust the depth margin, use the depth margin control knob located on the right side of the machine. Simultaneously press and turn the knob to set the margin. The knob will pop back out when released if the margin adjustment has been completed. If it does not pop out, simply rotate it back and forth slightly until it does so.
  3. Jog all of the sheets of your document (including the covers) by tapping them lightly on a table or other flat surface. Holding your document firmly with the front cover facing toward you and the holes along the bottom side, insert it onto the prongs of the open comb. When binding large documents, you may find it easier to divide the sheets into a few smaller sets to insert them (beginning with the front cover and working backward).
  4. Use the punch throat roler and side margin control to center the punch based on the size of your document. Disengage dies as necessary to eliminate any partially-punched holes along the edges of your pages. It is recommended that you punch a test sheet to verify that you have properly adjusted your machine before attempting to punch your document.
  5. Jog your document, insert up to 20 sheets (based on 20 lb. paper) into the throat of the machine, and pull the handle toward you to punch the pages. Return the handle to its upright position and pull your punched pages out of the machine.
  6. If your document is 14″ or longer, make sure that all dies are fully engaged and align the sheets as indicated on the punch throat ruler. Insert up to 20 sheets and pull the handle forward to activate the punching mechanism. Return the handle to its upright position and remove the paper from the punching throat. Flip the document over and insert it from the right-hand side of the machine, aligning one of the holes with the alignment pin. Pull the handle again to punch the remainder of the document. Return the handle to its upright position and retrieve your document from the punching throat.
  7. Repeat until all of the pages of your document have been punched.
  8. Jog all of the pages of your punched document together and lay them onto the coil inserting table. Align the document so that the first and fourth holes fit onto the coil inserting guides and begin inserting your binding coil from the right side. Once you reach the final holes, remove the document from the inserting guides and finish inserting the coil.
  9. Use a pair of coil crimping pliers to trim away any excess and crimp each end of the coil to secure the pages of your book in place.

How Do I Use the Akiles CBM650 Comb Opener?

The Akiles CBM650 comb opener is a stand-alone comb opening module that can be used to add comb opening capabilities to a modular binding machine (such as the Akiles VersaMac) or as a second binding workstation for increased productivity. Below is a step-by-step guide to binding books with the Akiles CBM650 comb opener:

  1. Place a binding comb behind onto the comb opener so that the spine of the comb is pressed against the tines of the machine and the loops extend between them. The open side of the comb should be toward the top.
  2. Slowly pull the comb opener handle downward to open the comb, stopping then the comb is opened enough to begin inserting sheets. Depending on the size of the comb that is being used, you may not need to pull the comb opener handle the entire way down.
  3. Jog all of the sheets of your document (including the covers) by tapping them lightly on a table or other flat surface. Holding your document firmly with the front cover facing toward you and the holes along the bottom side, insert it onto the prongs of the open comb. When binding large documents, you may find it easier to divide the sheets into a few smaller sets to insert them (beginning with the front cover and working backward).
  4. When all of the pages have been inserted onto the open binding comb, slowly return the comb opener handle to its upright position to close the comb. Lift the entire book upward to remove it from the machine and complete the binding process.

How Do I Punch Documents with the Akiles VersaMac Modular Binding Machine?

The Akiles VersaMac modular binding machine features interchangeable punching dies which allow you to punch in a wide variety of popular punching styles without having to invest in independent binding machines. Below is a step-by-step guide to punching documents with the VersaMac binding machine:

  1. Before attempting to punch any document, ensure that the punching die has been fully inserted and that the die clamp is in the locked position.
  2. Turn the machine on using the power switch. Both LED indicator lights on the Manual Control Panel (“Die In” and “Power”) should light up.
  3. Align the Side Margin Control (located to the left of the machine) to the correct position based on the sheet size being punched as well as the punching die being used.
  4. Insert up to 55 sheets* into the punching throat, starting on the right side of the machine and sliding them to the left until they align with the Side Margin Control.
  5. Activate the punching mechanism by either stepping on the food pedal or by pressing the Manual Punch Switch that is located on the Manual Control Panel.
  6. Continue punching in sets until all of the pages of your document have been punched, then bind the sheets using the corresponding spine style. To avoid damage to the machine, be sure to empty the waste drawer frequently.

*The maximum single-punch capacity ranges from 35 to 55 sheets (based on 20 lb. paper), depending upon the punching die being used. Akiles recommends punching 25 sheets per punch in order to maximize the lifespan of the machine and the punching dies. When punching thicker stock, always reduce the number of sheets per punch to maintain performance.

How Do I Change the Die on the Akiles VersaMac Modular Binding Machine?

The Akiles VersaMac modular binding machine is versatile binding machine that is designed for high-volume use and features interchangeable punching dies for added flexibility. Below are the steps for changing out the punching die on the VersaMac binding machine:

  1. Begin by turning off the power. Never change a punching die while the power is on, and only turn the power on after the punching die has been fully inserted and the die clamp is in the “locked” postion.
  2. Lift the lever on the die clamp and turn it counterclockwise to release the punching die. While turning the level, make sure that the lever does not hit the Depth Margin Adjustment bar to avoid damaging the machine.
  3. Gently pull on the punching die handle to slide the installed punching die out of the machine. When the punching die is approximately halfway out, use both hands to hold the die and remove it completely. Each die weighs over 10 lbs. and care should be taken to avoid dropping or damaging it.
  4. Use the included cleaning brush to remove any paper debris from the punching throat and other open areas on the machine.
  5. Insert the desired die into the Die Set Channel located on the right side of the machine, sliding it completely into the machine.
  6. Turn the die clamp clockwise to secure the punching die in place.
  7. Turn the power switch on. The indicator light for “Die In” will turn green if your die has been properly inserted.
  8. Adjust the depth margin position based on the document that will be bound. Each die (with the exception of the Velobind and 3-hole dies) has four punching depth settings – 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, and 5mm. Adjustments are made by pulling or pushing the Depth Margin Control Bar to the left or right side of the machine.

How Do I Disengage the Pins on the Akiles VersaMac Modular Binding Machine?

The Akiles VersaMac modular binding machine is professional-quality binding machine that is both durable and user-friendly, featuring interchangeable punching dies in a wide variety of patterns. Below is a step-by-step overview of disengaging the punching pins on the VersaMac binding machine:

  1. Remove the die from the machine.
  2. Identify the pins that need to be disengaged using the Punch Ruler Guide. The Punch Ruler Guide provides a visual representation of the most common sheet sizes so that pins that would leave partially-punched holes can be easily identified.
  3. Remove the punch pin retainer cover by pulling it upward to unlock one side first, then continue lifting to remove the other side.
  4. Use your fingers to remove the desired pin(s) from the die set.
  5. Re-install the punch pin retainer cover onto the die set, making sure that both sides are securely locked in place.
  6. Insert the die into the machine to begin punching with your adjusted hole pattern.

Troubleshooting Your Akiles VersaMac Modular Binding Machine

The Akiles VersaMac modular binding machine is a powerful, professional-quality binding system that uses interchangeable punching dies to provide the utmost in versatility. Below are helpful tips for troubleshooting the most common problems experienced while using the VersaMac binding machine:

Problem:

  • The Power Indicator Light located on the Manual Control Panel is not on.

Possible Solution:

  • Ensure that the power cord is securely plugged in to both the machine and the wall, and check that the power switch is in the “on” position.

Problem:

  • The circuit breaker has been tripped due to using a different electrical voltage than the one specified on the VersaMac’s label.

Possible Solution:

  • Plug the machine into an outlet that uses the correct voltage and press the Circuit Breaker Reset Switch to reset it.

Problem:

  • The Die-In Indicator Light located on the Manual Control Panel is not on.

Possible Solution:

  • Make sure that the punching die has been fully inserted into the machine and that the die clamp is in the “locked” position.

Problem:

  • The top cover is open and the safety sensor has been activated.

Possible Solution:

  • Close the top cover to deactivate the safety sensor.

Problem:

  • The Manual Reverse Driver has been inserted into the machine and the safety sensor has been activated.

Possible Solution:

  • Remove the Manual Reverse Driver from the machine to deactivate the safety sensor.

Problem:

  • The foot pedal has been pressed but the punching mechanism does not activate.

Possible Solution:

  • Ensure that the foot pedal cord has been properly plugged into the machine.

Problem:

  • The punching action stopped before the punching cycle ended.

Possible Solution:

  • Clear the jam using either the electric jam release or the manual jam release. To use the electric jam release, simply press the Reverse (Anti-Jam) Switch located on the Manual Control Panel repeatedly until the motor and the punching pins have been returned to the starting position. If the electric jam release process does not work, you’ll need to utilize the manual reverse procedure. Begin by turning off the power to the machine and inserting the Manual Reverse Driver into the hole located on the left side panel of the machine. If the punching action stopped before the pins reached their fully-extended position, turn the Manual Reverse Driver counterclockwise to pull the pins out of the sheet. If the punching action stopped after the pins reached their fully-extended position, turn the Manual Reverse Driver counterclockwise to pull the pins out of the sheet. Remove the sheets from the punching throat and pull the Manual Reverse Driver out of the machine. You may also need to reset the Circut Breaker Reset Switch locating on the back on the machine.
  • After clearing the jam, insert a few less sheets into the machine and initiate the punching process.

Problem:

  • The punching die is not properly installed.

Possible Solution:

  • Make sure that both sides of the Pin Retainer Cover are securely locked in place, and that the punching die has been fully inserted into the machine with the clamp in the “locked” position.

Problem:

  • The punching action is noisy and the pins lack lubrication.

Possible Solution:

  • Remove the punching die from the machine, then carefully apply the anti-rust lubricant (included with the VersaMac) onto each of the punch pins in the die set. Re-install the punching die and punch a few sheets of scratch paper to remove any excess lubricant.

Problem:

  • The waste drawer is overfilled.

Possible Solution:

  • Empty the waste drawer.

How Do I Use the Akiles Roll-@-Coil Electric Coil Inserter?

Designed to increase your coil binding producitivty, the Akiles Roll-@-Coil electric coil inserter is a stand-alone coil inserter that is both easy to use and affordable. The Roll-@-Coil has two 11″ rollers that insert binding coils up to 22mm (7/8″) into your books in a matter of seconds. In addition to providing superior coil insertion, this model also has a number of other handy features built in, such as a pitch identifier that compares the pitch of a punched document to that of a coil, a coil diameter selector that indicates the proper coil size based on the thickness of your book, and a coil diameter scale that allows you to measure the size of your coil.

Because it can be used as a seperate binding workstation, the Akiles Roll-@-Coil can dramatically increase productivity. Using the Roll-@-Coil electric coil inserter to bind your books is easy and takes only five simple steps:

  1. Place your pre-punched document into the U-shaped alignment channel with the punched edge facing up. This will align the holes in the pages of your document into a slight curve that will be easy to guide the coil through.
  2. Manually twist the coil through the first 4-5 holes on the right side of your document.
  3. Remove the book from the alignment channel and place the spine so that the coil lightly touches the roller.
  4. Press the foot pedal to activate the roller and begin advancing the coil through the holes.
  5. Once the tip of the coil exits the last hole of your document, immediately pull the coil away from the rollers and/or release the foot pedal. If you notice any holes or pages that have been missed during insertion, you can turn your book over and place it against the rollers to feed the coil in the opposite direction and then insert it again (beginning at step 3).
  6. To finish the bind, use a pair of manual coil crimping pliers. This will cut away any excess coil and crimp the ends to secure the pages within the bind.

DFG Office ECoil46 Coil Binding Machine Review

The DFG Office ECoil46 coil binding machine is a compact binder that is capable of creating coil-bound books up to 20mm thick (approximately 172 pages of 20 lb. paper) using a manual punching mechanism and an electric inserter. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the features offered by the Office ECoil46 and provide some insight on the applications for which it is suitable.

Punching

The Office ECoil46 from Digital Finishing Group (DFG) is a 4:1 pitch coil binder (four holes per inch) that has a manual punching mechanism with a 15-sheet punching capacity. It has a 11″ maximum punching length, but features an open throat with an alignment pin to accommodate larger document sizes (up to 21″ in length). With 46 fully-disengageable pins, the Office ECoil46 eliminates partially-punched holes on any document size, including specialty papers.

For added precision, the DFG ECoil46 has a built-in side margin guide that helps to ensure perfectly-centered holes on every document, regardless of length. It also has an adjustable depth margin for increased durability and a polished finish on both thick and thin books, because it allows you to set the amount of space between the holes and the edge of the sheet.

Binding

The DFG Office ECoil46 has 6″ electric coil inserter built into the top of the machine, which dramatically increases binding productivity. The inserter itself is a rubber roller that is activated by a foot pedal and advances the coil through the holes in the document as it spins. To use the coil inserter, begin by threading the coil through the first few holes of your document by hand. Use the foot pedal to engage the inserter motor and place the coil spine against the roller so that it spins the coil and feeds it through the holes in your book. To finish the bind, use a pair of coil crimping pliers to trim the excess from the ends of the book and add a crimp to secure the pages in place. The electric coil inserter is capable of inserting 4:1 pitch coils up to 20mm (3/4″) in diameter (larger coils can be inserted manually).

Coil-bound books offer a number of unique features as compared to other traditional binding styles, such as the ability to turn pages 360 degrees. Documents bound with coils also lay flat when opened, which makes coils a preferred binding method for coursebooks, presentations, and reports since they allow for easy note-taking.

In Review

Coil binding is one of the most popular binding methods for businesses and organizations of all types, because it offers variety and durability at an affordable price point. For those looking for a cost-effective binding machine for light-duty binding, the DFG Office ECoil46 is a great choice. The manual punching feature helps to keep the machine’s cost low, while the electric coil inserter helps to increase binding productivity. The ECoil46 has fully-disengageable pins and an open punching throat, so it can accommodate virtually any paper size with ease. Although it won’t stand up to high-volume usage in a production environment, the DFG Office ECoil46 would make an excellent addition to any home, small office, or school with low-volumen coil binding needs.