Eurobind 4000

Nikhil Mittal at the helm of affairs at Sona Printers says the trial run of the Eurobind 4000 has left his customers spell bound.

09 May 2013 | By PrintWeek India

What does the system do?
Inline perfect binding (it is a gathering and a perfect binding machine with a three-knife trimmer).

Why did you choose this particular system? 
We were driven by Eurobind’s high level of productivity and quality, especially the short make-ready times, high net output and exceptional quality even in short run. Besides eco-friendly features, it has flexible options with book sizes from A6-A3 and spine thickness from 2 to 60 mm. 
 
Did you look at any other similar systems?
We evaluated the Kolbus KM47, as well as the Wohlenberg and Muller Martini, but the main competition was between Kolbus and Heidelberg. Heidelberg’s innovative and flexible features were the key parameters.
 
Why did you make the purchase?
To boost our capacity, quality and reduce turnaround time. 
 
What features do you particularly like? 
The see-through structure offers a complete view of the mechanism while in function. You can literally see through the entire process, even the finer operations, with your eye. 
 
Is there anything that you dislike?
There is no reason for me to dislike anything.
 
Is there anything that you wish it had that it doesn’t? 
The ‘L’ shape’ option – a 90 degree curve between the gathering and the perfect binding line; this way the machine would consume less space and the number of gathering stations can be increased.
 
How fast is it? 
It’s quite fast and runs at a steady 4000 cycles per hour. The changeover time is 7-10 minutes.
 
How reliable is it?
You can trust the Heidelberg Eurobind 4000. 
 
What’s the quality like? 
You can expect exceptional and consistent quality levels. 
 
How easy is it to use?
The settings mounted on the touch-screen console makes the machine easy to handle.
 
How much time or money has it saved?
Huge savings with changeover times, even the smallest adjustment is done automatically.

Has it won you any new work?
Yes, some of our clients are fascinated with the exclusive binding quality and unique size options. We did a A3 size book with 60mm spine as a trial for a customer; even the machine suppliers were stunned with the output.
 
Would you say that it offers value for money?
Yes. 
 
Were there any difficulties experienced during the installation or after? 
None, the installation was completed in record time.
 
What about the pre and after-sales service? 
This is the first machine in Asia and post-installation glitches are bound to happen. I am sure, Heidelberg, which is known for its support system, will take care of of these glitches. 
 
Who do you think the system is right for? 
For commercial and book printers with short- and medium- run lengths.
 
Under what circumstances would you buy another?
We are satisfied with the machine. We  hope to add another line with PUR capabilities in the near future.

Conclusion
User’s verdict
Speed  5/5
Quality 5/5 
Reliability  4/5 
Value for money 4/5