A perfect binding machine binds theses, modules, reports and catalogues with hot melt glue. Available models differ greatly in capacity and price, so it is important to match them to your order volume. Here are five things to compare.
1. Capacity per hour
Lexia models reach 200 to 480 books per hour. In theory, over 8 working hours with no breaks, that equals about 1,600 to 3,840 books. Choose capacity with some headroom, because setup and warm-up time also use up working hours.
2. Maximum book thickness
Book thickness ranges from 40 mm to 60 mm. If you bind thick modules or reports, choose a model of 50 mm or more. For thin books thickness is not an issue, but consider wire stitching as an alternative.
3. Format and cover
Make sure the binding width covers your largest format; the 50B/60B and S-50G/60G handle F4 (340 mm). Also check the cover weight: the 50B/60B supports 70–300 gsm and the S-50G/60G 70–350 gsm.
4. Warm-up time
Hot melt glue must melt before the machine can be used. The 50R is ready in under 25 minutes, the 50B/60B in 30 minutes and the F04 in 40 minutes.
5. Power and space
Power ranges from 500 W (F04) to 1,500 W (S-50G/60G). Also check size and weight, for example 160 kg for the 50R and 200 kg for the S-50G/60G.
Lexia model comparison
- F04 — 200 books/hour, 40 mm thickness, formats up to 340 mm, 500 W.
- 50R — 200 books/hour, 50 mm thickness, 380 mm width, 1.3 kW.
- 50B/60B — 400 books/hour, 60 mm thickness, F4 (340 mm), side glue, slitting mill and comb, 1,100 W.
- S-50G/60G — 480 books/hour, 60 mm thickness, F4 (340 mm), 70–350 gsm covers, 1,500 W.
Recommendation
Frequently asked questions
How many books can be bound in a day?
As a theoretical guide for 8 hours with no breaks: 200 books/hour is about 1,600 books, 400 books/hour about 3,200 books and 480 books/hour about 3,840 books. Real output is lower because of setup and warm-up.
Are the 50B/60B and S-50G/60G the same?
No. The 50B/60B does 400 books/hour, 70–300 gsm covers, 1,100 W; the S-50G/60G does 480 books/hour, 70–350 gsm covers, 1,500 W.
Does the machine need warming up every day?
Yes. The glue must melt before use, about 25 to 40 minutes depending on the model, so switch the machine on early.
For a shop just starting to take thesis and module orders, the F04 or 50R is enough. For printers with regular large book orders, the 50B/60B or S-50G/60G is a better fit. Browse all perfect binding machines or contact Lexia Machinery in Medan.
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