Many would-be print shop owners are unsure which machine to start with. Here are the 5 core machines that cover most finishing needs before your first order, each with an example model.
1. Paper cutting machine
The foundation of almost every print job: trimming printed sheets to final size with precision. For beginners a semi-automatic model such as the 4606Z (460 mm cutting width) is enough, and a hydraulic model such as the HP4908 suits shops with bigger orders. Browse all paper cutting machines.
2. Laminating machine
A service customers ask for almost every day, from protecting documents to menus. The 375B laminator handles widths up to 340 mm at 70–125°C, enough for A3 documents. See laminating machines.
3. Binding machine (glue or wire)
Choose by the work you are targeting. Hot melt glue for thicker books and modules, for example the F04 (200 books/hour, 40 mm book thickness). Wire stitching for thin booklets and notebooks, for example the 801 (0–80 cycles/min, only 26 kg). Not sure which? Read hot glue vs wire stitching.
4. Paper drilling machine
Needed to prepare ring or spiral binding, calendars and binders, work that often comes from schools, universities and offices. The 50L drill drills up to 50 mm with 3–10 mm drill bits. See paper drilling machines.
5. Creasing or perforating machine
For finishing such as folded brochures, invitations and receipts with tear lines. The E660 creaser handles 85–400 gsm paper, and the 470 A perforator handles 60–800 gsm paper. This can wait until the orders come in regularly. See the differences in creasing, perforating and grooving.
The suggested buying order
Start with the cutter and the laminator, the two machines that cover the most common demand. Add a binder once you start taking book or booklet orders. The drill follows for calendar and ring-binding orders, then creasing and perforating once the business is steady.
Frequently asked questions
Which machine should I buy first?
The paper cutter and the laminator, because they cover the most common demand in a new print shop.
Do I need to buy all five at once?
No. Buy step by step as orders come in: a binder when book or booklet orders start, a drill for calendars and ring binding, creasing and perforating later.
How much electrical power should I prepare?
Some examples: 801 100 W, E660 120 W, 470 A 20 W, F04 500 W, 4606Z 1.4 kW and 375B 1.98 kW. Add up the machines that run at the same time and consult an electrician.
Need help building a machine list that fits your budget? Contact Lexia Machinery in Medan.
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