Binding - Perfect

There are lots of additional techniques that can be used to enhance the PUR process. One new technique is a plasma-discharge station (similar to the electrical corona discharge used to treat many flexible films). This is thought to change the surface tension and polarity of the book block, enhancing the bind strength.

In the ’50s, the race began to automate book binding, with firms vying to produce complete, automated systems that could turn out 50-60 hardcover books per minute. The new production model is a smaller work cell requiring a single operator.

Even though I didn’t get the opportunity to visit all of the finishing system exhibitors at GRAPH EXPO 2012, I did see enough to form some opinions on current trends and developments in the industry. While digital printing was once again the central focus of the show floor, finishing remains key in creating quality, exciting products across the board.

In the past year, I've had to get up close and personal with hardcover binding and my horizons have been greatly stretched as to what can be turned out in the finishing department. The latest electronic devices even offer opportunities for traditional finishing.

Bookmasters produces all varieties—and quantities—of books via digital and offset printing. Recently, the company installed Muller Martini’s Scalable SigmaLine digital book production system to increase its short-run manufacturing capabilities in combination with a new Océ JetStream 1000 inkjet press.

Color digital printers now realize that they can produce the complete product in-house, including high-quality hard cover books. The new workflow can produce one or two unique books at a time, where it’s necessary to change sizes rapidly.

Of late, 3D Bindery found it was missing out on some significant business opportunities. Many of its customers began requesting PUR binding on specific jobs, a process that its equipment did not support. After researching a number of options, the company chose Muller Martini’s Pantera perfect binder.

Master Graphic Services, a premier trade finisher in the southeastern United States, has completed the installation of the Standard Horizon CABS 6000 perfect binding system. MGS can now become the full-service vendor of choice, says Aamir Anwar, president.

With the steady adoption of all sorts of digital printing systems, more printers are now producing soft- and hard-cover books. Many digital print shops will purchase a perfect binder and assume they’re good to go with a quality product.

Allied Bindery's primary goal is to produce a high-quality book, and a close second is to allow for flexibility. Being an early embracer of hot melt polyurethane (PUR) adhesive for spine gluing has helped it achieve both.