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PVA-Compatible Binding Machines

Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) book binding adhesive creates a durable and flexible double fan binding. This specialized glue contains externally plasticized homopolymers suitable for paper leaf attachment. Adhesives without plasticizers tend to become hard and brittle as they age. Bookbinding or re-binding should take place with binding machines that are compatible with PVA adhesives.

Ultrabind Machine
- The Ultrabind bookbinding machine performs several operations for the double-fan binding method. First, it removes all old bindings and glue from the spine. Second, it cuts notches into the book spine. To ensure all exposed edges receive PVA adhesive, the book is fanned twice with the adhesive. The machine fills notches with glue and applies a reinforcing cloth lining to the spine and allows it to dry. Books, which are too heavy or too large for the Ultrabind machine, need to be bound or re-bound manually.
Mekanotch Machine
- The Mekanotch machine cuts thin slits of various depths into the spine of the text block. The pattern of notches prepares the spine for linkage between the paper and PVA adhesives by increasing the area where the surface contacts the glue. The machine forces PVA glue into all of the notches, as well as the edges of the pages. Combined with the double-fan binding method, the Mekanotch binding method produces optimal strength and flexibility. The more glue that meets the pages, the less flexibility the book has. Operators of this machine should be knowledgeable in their craft, to ensure that the right amount of PVA adhesive is applied.
Casemaking Machine
- A casemaking machine produces hardcover bound books. The first the spreader or topside adhesive roller is applied. PVA glue resides in a removable glue reservoir. Adhesive thickness is adjusted using a scraper blade. Unlike traditional, bottom-side gluers -- casemaking or topside gluing machines -- eliminate the need to flip over the glued cover material. The machine takes the hardboard book cover through three more steps; the slider, the stomper and the squeezer.
Thermal Binding Machine
- The thermal bookbinding machine uses heat to adhere pages to a pre-glued spine. This is a quick, inexpensive and simple way to bind and repair your own books. You can purchase pre-glued spines of various sizes, insert your pages into the spine and place the book into the thermal binding machine. The machine heats the PVA glue on the spine, attaching the pages to it. If you want to make your own book covers, you can purchase bookbinding PVA glue strips.

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