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Perfect Binding (Hot Melt) Problem Solver

The following pages contain answers to some common problems.  
If you need further assistance be sure to contact us.

We also have an  Animal Glue Problem Solver page.

Glue
Type
HM-1 Fast Set Single Clamp Sulby 4-5 Sec.
HM-2 Slow Set Multi Clamp Sulby 10-12 Sec.
Temperature
350º F. Normal Paper.
375º F. Coated Paper if necessary.
Amount
15 to 20 Thousandths of an inch looking at trimmed edge of back bone.
 
Paper / Signature
Type
Clay, coated, enamel papers are harder to stick.
Thickness
Above 40 LB., paper is harder to stick.
Grain
IMPORTANT: Grain should run parallel to back bone (long grain).  Perpendicular (short grain) will reduce page pull 25%.
Temperature
Paper should be at room temperature 72º F.
book binding troubleshooting
Paper / Cover
Type
The area inside the cover at the back bone should not be coated.
Temperature
Cover stock should be at room temperature 72º F.
Temperature Near The Binder
Should be operated at room temperature 72º F. or above.  It is important there are no cold drafts on the binder.
Coverage of Hot Melt
1 LB. of hot melt (15 to 20 thousandth of an inch thick) will make 756 sq. in. of back bone.
Example:
12 inch book, 1 inch thick = 12 sq. in.
 
756/12 = 63 books (approx.).