When you look for a specialised binding machine type, the best options are usually modular binding machines which enable operators to conveniently change between various punch patterns in a single machine. In this article, we are trying to give readers a closer view of modular binding machine punches to understand the way they work and learn various advantages associated with them for busy binding environments. Additionally, we will also highlight different punch patterns for common binding solutions currently used.

Learning about modular binding machines & their punching styles

Most of the modular binders are equipped with inbuilt punching dies which are made to insert into the machine. These dies come in a wide variety of punching patterns. Modular binders are regarded as the best choice for fast and heavy demand printing requirements like printing shops and larger offices requiring a range of binding styles.

These modular binding equipment solutions have few limitations.

In the market, you will see many types of inexpensive add-on binding modules such as wire closer, comb openers, coil inserters etc. These binding module add-ons are actually great to utilize in collaboration with a modular machine focusing on providing a perfect binding solution.

Furthermore, if you seek a solution that offers you multiple binding styles in a single binding equipment device, then modular binding machines are the best solution to go with. You don’t have to buy separate modules for varied binding styles, but use one for all commonly used styles.

Exploring Punch Patterns Of Binding Styles

Binding styles that are commonly preferred by most of the binding operators follow a certain punch pattern. Generally, each style supports a separate hole pattern that works with binding spines which relate to the certain binding process. Here, we are going to describe different punching patterns used for different binding styles.

Punch Patterns For Wire Binding

For the wire binding process, two different punch patterns are used that are 2:1 and 3:1. The 2:1 pattern features 2 holes per inch and 3:1 features 3 holes per inch. The former one utilizes rectangular holes with 23 total holes on each A4 sheet. However, in 3:1 patterns, square holes are used with 34 total holes on each A4 sheet.

Punch Patterns For Coil Binding

If you have a coil binding machine, then there won’t be any confusion in punch pattern because it uses single pattern that is 4:1 which is usually punches a 4mm circular hole. You need to factor in the extra time you need to crimp the ends when binding an A4 document. Standard binding coils made of plastic are used that come in A4 length and 49 loops. Some of the coil binding solutions also support oval holes rather than circle holes.

Punch Patterns For Comb Binding 

For comb binding, the supported punch pattern is of 21 holes in rectangular shape on every A4 sheet. These holes relate to 21 prongs available on the spines of comb binding. These rectangular holes measure 8mm x 3mm that give some additional space for easily turning pages after the insertion of binding comb.