GRAIN DIRECTION

Grain direction should be considered for various binding and finishing operations, including folding, scoring and perforating.

SCORING & FOLDING

Before folding, scoring or creasing is recommended for thicker gauges (.0075" & up). Scoring and creasing lighter gauges may be necessary to define the fold. In most cases, scoring should be performed in the cross machine direction (ie. perpendicular to the polymer grain). This is because Zodia^® is susceptible to tearing in the machine direction and scoring pressure will potentially tear the fibre during this process. This is particularly important in the heavier gauges of Zodia.

Zodia^® can be folded without cracking or tearing. It folds more easily in the grain direction, especially with heavier gauges. Minimize the amount of air trapped between sheets by limiting the number of folded pages to no more than eight.

PERFORATING

Perforation should be performed in the grain direction. Once tearing is initiated, Zodia tears more easily in the grain direction.

DIE CUTTING

Dies should be made of hard steel, sharp and free of nicks. Right angled cuts should be made with a 1/16" radius hole to prevent initiating tearing.

LAMINATING

Laminating provides a protection for the printed image. When laminating, minimize the web tension and heat to avoid sheetstretching, distortion and wrinkles. Ensure the inks used are compatible with laminating as well.





BINDING

Zodia^® may be saddle stitched using conventional saddle stitching equipment.

Binding techniques using round holes are recommended to increase durability and tear resistance. When drilling holes, be sure the inside radius is at least 1/16" and the drill bit is sharp. To avoid overheating and melting, keep stacks to a minimum (no more than 1" lifts).

Perfect binding can be performed. However, the temperature must be kept low enough to prevent distortion of Zodia^®. Solvent based adhesives may be used instead of hot melt adhesives.

GUILLOTINING

Zodia^® can be guillotined without difficulty to the same tolerances as paper. Blades should be kept sharp, and because of the compressibility of the material, light clamping pressures should be used.