Technical Articles
Modern Adhesive Binding Blends Art and Science
By: Kris Koch, President, Allied Bindery Company
Published in Printing Views
It may seem like an old-fashioned process, but modern adhesive binding production is an advanced mix of art and science. The latest binding equipment allows more books to be bound in a shorter amount of time, and with less make-ready waste than ever before. Experienced binders can take advantage of modern production methods to offer plenty of cover styles, design possibilities and layout versatility. There are also a wider range of binding adhesive formulas available, some of which give books the strength and flexibility to be used regularly for years.
With this many options available, it's more important than ever to plan adhesive binding projects properly. Your binder may be able to make layout or design suggestions that save you time and money while providing higher overall quality. To get you started, here are a few details to consider regarding adhesive binding:
EVA Hot Melt vs. PUR Adhesives
EVA hot melt and PUR are the two main binding adhesive families, and they each have distinct characteristics that should be considered when planning a project. EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) is the "standard" adhesive used for perfect binding, and it's available in many different formulas. As the name implies, EVA hot melt adhesives are heated just prior to application, which makes the adhesive more malleable. EVA adhesives are versatile enough to be used on both coated and uncoated stock, and a variety of formulas are available for applications beyond perfect binding. For example, a "roundable" hot melt adhesive can be used to create a rounded spine on Smyth-sewn books. Pressure-sensitive hot melt formulas can be used as a side glue for padding and cover hinges.
PUR (polyurethane reactive) is the strongest binding adhesive available. Originally designed for use on both furniture and automobiles, PUR adhesive is impervious to both hot and cold temperature extremes. It works with all stocks and coatings including synthetics and UV. PUR is much more flexible than EVA adhesive, making it a popular choice for layflat adhesive binding applications. PUR adhesives are also applied thinly, which helps prevent wavy spines and other glue buildup problems.
One of the key advantages of PUR adhesive is its ability to bind very thin books. Due to the relatively small spine size, very thin books (those with spine widths around 1/16") require a binding adhesive that's strong enough to create a sufficient bond with very little paper surface area. The small spine size also limits flexibility of the book. However, PUR adhesive will offer enough flexibility to allow very thin books to be used regularly for an extended period of time.
Alternative Binding Styles
Some applications, either by necessity or by design, require an adhesive binding style that's a little out of the ordinary. Here are a few alternative binding styles:
Layflat adhesive binding - With this binding style, the cover is affixed to the book block using side glue, which creates a "detached" spine that allows the book to lay perfectly flat when opened.
Tape Binding - Looking for an alternative adhesive binding style that gives your books an original appearance? Tape binding may be your solution. This style involves applying colored cloth around the spine of a book.
Notch Binding - This style offers improved strength over standard EVA perfect binding through a series of notches that are removed from the spines of signatures. These notches are then filled with adhesive during binding to increase the surface area of adhesion and, therefore, the strength of the bind.
Planning Tips
Leave sufficient curing time - While EVA hot melt adhesives cure quickly, PUR requires several hours to achieve proper strength and flexibility. For that reason, PUR adhesive may not be the best solution for same-day turnaround projects; however, before rejecting any bindery solution, please consult with your qualified bindery professional.
Knock out inks and coatings - When using EVA or cold-based adhesives, be sure to remove all inks and coatings from the spine area. These elements can compromise adhesion when they seep into the binding area, reducing the strength of the bind and the lifespan of the book. If your project has a significant amount of ink or coating, PUR adhesives will be your best choice, as they will form a sufficient bond even if these elements are present.
Ask about multiple-up layouts - A two- or three-up layout allows for reduced turnaround times on certain projects, as well as a reduction in printing plate and paper usage (and cost). However, not all binderies can handle multiple-up layouts efficiently. Check with your post press services provider about the possibility of multiple-up layouts, but keep in mind that these layouts must be approved by your bindery.
Modern adhesive binding production has the flexibility to allow for a wide range of design and layout possibilities. Coupled with the latest equipment and a knowledgeable bindery, well-designed books can be produced efficiently with beautiful results. The key is to involve your bindery during the planning of these projects to be sure you're aware of all possibilities. A money-saving layout tip or schedule-shortening paper suggestion may be just a phone call away!
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Allied Bindery Company is a full-service post press services company located in Madison Heights, Michigan. Allied Bindery Company specializes in a complete range of adhesive binding services, including PUR binding, perfect binding, notch binding and more. Additional capabilities include folding, trimming, cutting, collating, saddle stitching, shrink wrapping and more. Kris Koch can be reached at (800) 833-0151 or kris@alliedbindery.com.
