The Fellowes Helios 60 thermal binding machine is a robust yet simple binding machine that pairs easy, push button operation with a hefty 600 page binding capacity. Below are the step-by-step instructions for binding a document using the Fellowes Helios 60:
- Before binding, ensure the machine is on a stable working surface and that there is ample space around the machine to operate it safely. The Fellowes Helios 60 uses a high level of heat to melt the thermal adhesive and secure the documents inside of the cover, so it is important to have a clear working area.
- Insert the power cord into the machine. The power socket is located at the rear of the unit.
- Plug the machine into an easily-accessible socket, then turn on the main power switch, which is located on the back of the machine.
- Open the lid of the binding machine by releasing the safety catches on the front of the lid and then lifting it to the open position.
- Once the main power switch for the machine has been turned on, the LED indicator on the ‘Power-On’ button will be red. To ready the machine for binding, simply press the ‘Power-On’ button on the control panel. The machine will begin warming up, during which the ‘Power-On’ button will flash red. When the machine reaches the proper binding temperature, the LED indicator on the ‘Power-On’ button will turn green and the machine will beep three times.
- Prepare the document(s) that you are binding by placing the sheets into the thermal binding cover(s). For the best results, do not to insert more sheets or fewer sheets into the cover than are recommended. The Helios 60 includes a built-in binding size guide that is calibrated in 0.25″ widths to help you identify the proper binding cover size. This machine will accept single or multiple documents up to a combined total thickness of 2.5″ (approximately 600 sheets, based on 20 lb. paper). Note: Using thicker paper will reduce the capacity.
- Pull the document clamp open and insert your document(s) into the binding channel. Once you have inserted the document(s) and closed the document clamp, the ‘Auto-Sense’ function will calculate the optimum binding cycle based upon the total binding thickness and adjust the machine accordingly. Note: In order to properly bind your document(s), ensure that the spine of the binding cover(s) is in contact with the heating element.
- The blue LED will light up to indicate the selected binding cycle. Use the timer selection buttons to adjust the cycle up or down, if required. The scale has a total of 10 settings, which represent 0.25″ increments. For example, a 0.25″ thick document will bind at setting 1, and a 1.25″ thick document will bind at setting 5 (because it is the equivalent of five 0.25″ increments).
- Begin the binding cycle by pressing the ‘Select/OK’ button. Once the binding cycle begins, the blue LED will start flashing and counting down the remaining time. When the binding process is complete, the machine will beep three times and the blue LED will turn off.
- Once the binding cycle is complete, immediately remove the document(s) and move it/them to the built-in cooling tray or place it/them on a flat surface to cool. Allow all documents to cool thoroughly before attempting to open them, as opening them prematurely may result in pages being loosened. Note: The document can be removed from the machine mid-cycle if necessary, but use extreme caution as the glue that lines the spine may be hot and melted.