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):
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- Flip the back cover around to the back of the book to hide the binding seam.