What does the machine do?
The Watkiss 420PUR is an entry-level PUR-based perfect binder for companies looking to bring this capability in-house or upgrade their existing perfect binding services with the option of stronger adhesive.
When was it launched and what market is it aimed at?
It was launched in November 2011 and is aimed at the short-run digital print market.
How does it work?
Watkiss communications director Jo Watkiss explains: "Book blocks and covers are manually loaded. From there, the process is largely automated, with the vice and clamp automatically adjusting according to book width. The spine dimensions for gluing are set via a photo sensor, ensuring that the correct amount of adhesive is applied.
"The operator places a pre-scored cover into the machine and then places the book block into the vice. On a button-press, the block then automatically passes over a milling and notching disk which takes a fine layer off the spine rather than just cutting notches. This results in better spine preparation, better adhesion and a flatter spine.
"The block then passes over the glue head, which applies glue to the spine and edge, and into the clamp where the cover is clamped around the book. The operator then manually removes the book."
How does it differ from previous models?
Watkiss has had the 420HM hotmelt perfect binder available for several years and the 420PUR is an evolution of this machine into the stronger glue form. That said, both models are still available and, as Watkiss adds, which one is more suitable will depend on a customer’s specific needs.
How fast is it?
The cycle speed for the machine is 450 books per hour (bph).
What is the USP of the product?
Watkiss explains: "One of the key features of the 420PUR is a unique recirculating glue system, meaning the glue is not simply supplied to the point of delivery in one direction. This minimises the potential for clogging.
"Viscosity is maintained by keeping the glue in motion via the careful management of temperature and pressure. This is achieved through the machine’s four connected glue tanks which enable different temperatures to be maintained in different parts of the machine.
"Another feature that has proved popular is on-demand glue melt. In many systems, a whole PUR candle must be melted each time. But the Watkiss system has an insulated candle housing, where heat is applied from below, meaning the glue can be melted incrementally, saving on cost and maintenance."
How easy is it to use?
Watkiss claims that the machine is "extremely easy" to use. While all PUR perfect binders have a higher maintenance requirement than hotmelt binders, Watkiss says that maintaining PUR binders is actually easier than most realise.
What training and support is on offer?
"When we install a machine, we provide a full day’s training, although in reality, the operator will be confident in running and maintaining the machine in half this time," says Watkiss.
How much does it cost?
The Watkiss 420PUR perfect binder costs around £25,000.
SPECIFICATIONS
Max book size (length) 420mm
Min book size (length) 130mm
Max book block thickness 50mm
Cycle speed 450bph
Price £25,000
Contact Watkiss 01767 685700 www.watkiss.com
ALTERNATIVES
Horizon BQ160
The BQ160 is a standalone single-clamp off-line EVA or PUR perfect binder for photo book production. The notching cutter is specially designed for PUR glue binding, says Horizon.
Max book size (length) 350mm
Min book size (length) 128mm
Max book block thickness 40mm
Cycle speed 180bph
Price from £17,750
Contact iFS 020 8997 8053 www.ifsl.uk.com
FKS PrintBind KB-4000 PUR
The PrintBind KB-4000 is a single clamp binder for on-demand work. The machine utilises both PUR and EVA hotmelt glues. The PUR binder features a closed-tank system which means, says FKS, that no fumes are emitted and that the PUR glue inside the system is preserved for longer.
Max book size (length) 420mm
Min book size (length) 120mm
Max book block thickness 50mm
Cycle speed 200bph
Price £59,000
Contact Duplo International 01932 263900 www.duplointernational.com
Morgana Digibook 300
The DigiBook 300 is designed for traditional and digital printers who require short runs of PUR perfect bound books to a professional standard. The machine is equipped with a patented closed gluing system where the spine and side gluing are applied by a slot applicator.
Max book size (length) 450mm
Min book size (length) 100mm
Max book block thickness 50mm
Cycle speed 300bph
Price £40,000
Contact Morgana 01908 608888 www.morgana.co.uk
