1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and efficient operation of your GBC AWM-D Dual Twinbinder. This machine is designed for both plastic comb binding (CERLOX) and wire binding (TWINLOOP), offering versatility for various document binding needs. Please read this manual thoroughly before initial use and keep it for future reference.
Figure 1: GBC AWM-D Dual Twinbinder. This image shows the complete binding machine with its two operating handles and distinct sections for plastic comb and wire binding.
2. Safety Instructions
- Always operate the machine on a stable, flat surface.
- Keep hands and loose clothing away from moving parts during operation.
- Do not exceed the maximum punching capacity of 12 sheets per punch. Overloading can damage the machine.
- Ensure the machine is unplugged before cleaning or maintenance.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Use only with compatible plastic combs and wire binding elements.
3. Product Overview
The GBC AWM-D Dual Twinbinder features two distinct punching and binding mechanisms to accommodate both plastic comb and wire binding styles.
Key Components:
- Punching Levers: Two levers for manual punching.
- Plastic Comb Punching Slot: For rectangular holes (2:1 pitch).
- Wire Binding Punching Slot: For square holes (3:1 pitch).
- Comb Opener: Mechanism for expanding plastic combs.
- Wire Closer: Mechanism for crimping wire binding elements.
- Margin Depth Adjuster: Controls the distance of the holes from the paper edge.
- Paper Size Guide: Ensures proper paper alignment.
- Waste Tray: Collects paper chads from punching.
Figure 2: Close-up of the integrated measuring guide. This guide assists in selecting the correct binding element size for both 2:1 (plastic comb) and 3:1 (wire) pitches.
Figure 3: Margin depth adjuster. This knob allows adjustment of the punching margin, ensuring durability and proper page turning.
4. Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the Twinbinder from its packaging. Retain packaging for future transport or storage.
- Placement: Place the machine on a sturdy, level surface with adequate space for operation.
- Waste Tray: Ensure the waste tray is correctly inserted at the bottom of the machine. Empty it regularly.
- Adjust Margin Depth: Use the margin depth adjuster (Figure 3) to set the desired distance from the paper edge to the punched holes. A deeper margin is recommended for thicker documents.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Measuring Binding Element Size
Use the integrated measuring guide (Figure 2) to determine the appropriate size of plastic comb or wire binding element for your document thickness. Align your stack of pages against the guide to find the recommended size.
5.2. Punching Pages
The GBC AWM-D can punch up to 12 sheets of standard 80gsm paper at a time. Do not exceed this capacity to prevent damage to the punching mechanism.
- Select Punching Type:
- For plastic comb binding (CERLOX), use the section with rectangular holes (2:1 pitch).
- For wire binding (TWINLOOP), use the section with square holes (3:1 pitch).
- Align Paper: Insert the stack of paper into the chosen punching slot, ensuring it is flush against the paper stop.
- Punch: Firmly pull down the corresponding punching lever. Return the lever to its original position.
- Repeat: Continue punching in small batches until all pages are perforated.
Figure 4: Close-up of the punching pins. The machine features robust punching pins for consistent hole formation.
5.3. Plastic Comb Binding (CERLOX)
This machine binds up to 280 sheets using plastic combs (2:1 pitch).
- Open Comb: Place the plastic comb onto the comb opener mechanism with the teeth facing upwards. Pull the comb opener lever to expand the comb.
- Load Pages: Carefully load the punched pages onto the open comb teeth. Start with the back cover, then the main document pages, and finally the front cover.
- Close Comb: Push the comb opener lever back to its original position to close the comb, securing the document.
Figure 5: Example of a document bound with a plastic comb. This image illustrates the finished appearance of a plastic comb bound document.
5.4. Wire Binding (TWINLOOP)
This machine binds up to 120 sheets using wire binding elements (3:1 pitch).
- Load Wire: Place the open wire binding element onto the wire holder hooks, ensuring the open side faces upwards.
- Load Pages: Carefully load the punched pages onto the wire loops. Start with the front cover (face down), then the main document pages, and finally the back cover (face up).
- Transfer to Closer: Remove the loaded wire and place it into the wire closer slot.
- Close Wire: Pull the wire closer lever down firmly to crimp the wire, securing the document. Adjust the wire closer setting if necessary for a perfect close.
Figure 6: Close-up of the wire binding mechanism. This shows the section where wire elements are placed for closing.
Figure 7: Example of wire binding loops. This image displays the characteristic double-loop wire binding.
6. Maintenance
- Empty Waste Tray: Regularly check and empty the waste tray to prevent paper chad buildup, which can affect punching performance.
- Cleaning: Wipe the exterior of the machine with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Lubrication: The punching mechanism is designed for long-term use and generally does not require lubrication. If you notice stiffness, consult customer support.
- Storage: When not in use, store the machine in a clean, dry environment.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pages not punching cleanly. | Overloading the machine; dull punching dies; waste tray full. | Reduce the number of sheets per punch; empty waste tray. If problem persists, contact support. |
| Binding element not closing properly. | Incorrect binding element size; improper adjustment of closer mechanism. | Ensure correct binding element size is used; adjust the wire closer setting (if applicable) or ensure comb opener is fully closed. |
| Paper jams. | Overloading; misaligned paper. | Reduce sheet count; ensure paper is properly aligned against the guide before punching. |
8. Specifications
- Model: GBC AWM-D
- Binding Type: Dual (Plastic Comb & Wire)
- Punching Capacity: 12 sheets (80gsm paper)
- Plastic Comb Binding Capacity: Up to 280 sheets (2:1 pitch)
- Wire Binding Capacity: Up to 120 sheets (3:1 pitch)
- Punching Holes: Rectangular (2:1 pitch for plastic), Square (3:1 pitch for wire)
- Material: Plastic and Metal construction
- Dimensions: 47.8 x 53.6 x 33.8 cm (18.8 x 21.1 x 13.3 inches)
- Weight: 26.06 kg (57.45 lbs)
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical assistance, please refer to the official GBC website or contact your local GBC authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
GBC Website: www.gbc.com
