The Akiles CoilMac-EPI Plus 4:1  high-volume, quality coil binding machine engineered to withstand heavy use throughout the workday. We rarely receive complaints from customers about the Akiles CoilMac-EPI Plus 4:1

Over the years, however, I have been very impressed with how Akiles has been able to design a binding machine that has so many features to offer for such a modest price. When I entered the document finishing industry over 12 years ago, Renz was pretty much the dominant force in high-end coil binding machines. That prominence has changed since then, thanks to the determination of the product engineers from Akiles. They have not only successfully competed in the document binding machine market, but have surpassed their competition in several key areas.

Most coil binding machines punch round holes. The Akiles CoilMac-EPI Plus 4:1 does not. This unique electric coil-binding machine actually punches out oval-shaped holes with its built-in electric punch. This slight modification in hole design dramatically speeds up the coil insertion process. This allows for slightly more space for the coil to move within and reduces the frustration often encountered when coil and punched paper don’t always exactly match up. The machine’s 54 punch pins may be disengaged so that you can create custom-sized documents and books.

The Akiles CoilMac-EPI Plus 4:1, with rugged all-metal construction, boasts a high volume punch capacity of 25 sheets. This rating applies to 20 lb. standard copy paper. The punch motor has reverse anti-jam feature that helps you dislodge stacks of paper or covers that were too thick.

The machine also provides a full-length, heavy-duty electric coil inserter on the front of the unit for convenient coil insertion. The Akiles CoilMac-EPI Plus 4:1 comes with a built-in coil diameter selector and premium oval coil crimping pliers.

When you are ready to order your electric coil binding machine , be sure to mention this article to save an additional five percent!

3 mil Roll Lamination Film

There are several different types of roll lamination film available today. Customers often ask, “What’s the best film for me?” We ask them about their application before recommending the optimum roll laminator film. When new customers call from a school ordering lamination film, we typically ask them about the film thickness they are currently using. If they tell us they are using 1.5 mil film, that’s when the conversation takes an interesting turn.

Not only is ABC Office roll laminating film affordable, it’s also made from high quality materials. Our roll laminating film makes posters, banners, signs, maps and other similar school projects look professional and highly presentable. Unfortunately, there are some 1.5 mil (this is a measurement in thousandths of an inch) lamination films out there that are actually not 1.5 mil in thickness. Some manufacturers will market school grade film as 1.5 mil thick when the actual thickness is closer to 1.2 mil. This film is a low-cost alternative that indeed saves the school money, but also sacrifices some of the rigidity and durability that most schoolteachers need in a lamination film. This is why ABC Office often upgrades its education clients from 1.5 to 3 mil film.

When schoolteachers and other employees visit our offices and have the opportunity to see the differences between 1.5 vs. 3 mil film, the contest is immediately over. They upgrade to 3 mil roll lamination film and never look back.

What is 3 mil Clear Lamination Film?

Three mil thick roll lamination film is basically an everyday film that will adhere to most printed documents, signs and posters. Clear film is popular with schools and copy shops because it works very well on a variety of substances. When properly laminated, clear 3mil film gives your document a professional, glass-like appearance. It comes in widths of nine, 12, 18, 25 and 27 inches.

Roll lamination film also comes in other mil thicknesses: five and ten mil. Some roll laminators, especially models purchases by most schools, are restricted to a narrow range of lamination film thicknesses … typically 1.5 to 3 mil. Be sure you are using laminate film that is compatible with your laminator.

At ABC Office we have the best selection and prices on roll laminating film available online. Our lineup also includes matt film, UV lamination film, pressure sensitive laminating film and more. We mostly sell clear glossy film, which means we are able to provide you with some of the lowest prices available online. We also offer roll lamination film core sizes and widths that accommodate most roll laminators available on the market. Some of the major manufacturers we represent include: Ledco, Sircle, GBC, Tamerica and more.

Contact ABC Office today at 1-800-658-8788 to ask about our selection of clear 3 mil lamination films.

During the past few weeks at ABC Office, we have held free roll laminator training sessions. The purpose is to help train local schoolteachers and other employees how to properly set up and operate a roll laminator machine. The goal was to help educators get the best performance out of their school’s laminator and ensure that everyone knows the safe and proper way to operate a roll laminator. We also wanted to demonstrate how to use the least amount of lamination film to save money.

Most schools will only permit a few employees to operate their laminator since the process can be somewhat complex. After meeting with our recent workshop attendees, we decided it would be helpful to create a brief summary of the roll laminator set up and operation process. This should help even more school staff learn how to use a roll laminator so that that responsibility does not belong to just one employee. The following will show you how to load and operate a school type laminator in just minutes.

Tahsin / Tamerica TCC2700 27-Inch Thermal Roll Laminator

This is the Tahsin / Tamerica TCC2700 27-Inch Thermal Roll Laminator, the machine we used during the laminator training session. We chose this model because it has most of the features that are found on a typical school laminator. We also wanted to show the attendees a model that can process a wide range of lamination film, from 1.5 to 10 mils in thickness. Most school laminators are limited to a range of 1.5 to 3 mil lamination film, but there are some school projects that require a stiffer and more durable lamination film.

Put the side handle/lever in the “Up” position.

Before you turn on the laminator, be sure to disengage, or separate, the top and bottom silicone heat rollers (if this feature is included with your laminator). On the model TCC270 laminator, this is done by pulling the side handle/lever into the “Up” position. This will give you ample space to feed the film through from the top and bottom lamination rolls.

There should be a gap between the top and lower laminator rollers.

Next, install the top and bottom lamination rolls onto the laminator. You can do this by inserting the top and bottom mandrels into the lamination film cardboard core. With the model TCC270 laminator, the top mandrel is inserted by twisting the metal bar clock-wise. This prevents the metal film prong/stopper from stopping the film installation process.

Install the top and bottom lamination rolls onto the laminator.

The prong/stopper ensures there is no slippage during the lamination process. You should next install the bottom lamination roll the same way as the top, except you twist the mandrel in a counter-clockwise direction.

Laminator film threading diagram for the TCC270 laminator.

Now, thread the top and bottom lamination rolls. Carefully follow the threading diagram provided with your laminator. The product manual will have a diagram and most laminators, such as the model TCC270, have a diagram printed on the side of the machine. If you have threaded the film correctly, the glue side of the film will be facing towards you.

Join the top and bottom lamination rolls together with a few strips of tape.

Next, tape the top and bottom lamination rolls together in front of the gap of the top and bottom laminator rollers. You will want to use a fairly stiff and wide piece of paper to feed the lamination film trough the rollers.

Laminator’s side handle/lever should now be in the “Down” position.

Now, put the laminator’s side handle/lever in the “Down” position to close the gap between the top and bottom rollers.

Push the “Run” button next.

Push the side operation switch to “Run.” Next, turn on the machine. Select “Heat” and adjust the speed to “3.”

Select “Heat” and adjust the laminator’s speed.

The rollers should begin rolling and your test sheet of paper should feed trough with the film, exiting from the back side of the laminator.

Your test sheet should exit from the back of the laminator

Set the laminator speed to zero and adjust the temperature for the type of film you are using (1.5, 3, 5, 7 or 10 mil films require different temperature settings).

Replace the laminator’s paper feed tray.

Replace the paper feed tray in the front of the laminator and pull down the plastic safety heat shield. You may now operate your laminator after is reaches the desired temperature.

Be sure to contact ABC Office at 1-800-658-8788 for all of your roll laminator questions, supplies and needs!

Sealer Sales KF-520H / KF-525H 20″ Impulse Hand Sealer

If you use an impulse heat sealer, you may not have even considered the importance of the congealing, or cooling step. Sealer Sales, one of the leading manufacturers of heat sealers, recently reminded us of the importance of congealing a seal. What exactly does this mean? Congeal means to cool under pressure.

If you are using a hand or foot sealer, then your model is officially classified as a manual sealer. This basically means that you should add the congeal step (also sometimes referred to as a dwell step) to your sealing process. This will make certain a secure and proper seal.

So, how do you do this? You can simply hold the sealing jaw down for a couple of seconds after the timer light has gone off to set the seal. This added step guarantees a proper seal. This will also help your sealer cool down before the next seal begins. The benefit to you with this added step is extended longevity of the heat-sealing elements.

With auto sealers, the manufacturer recommends the congeal (cooling) setting to be lengthened to at least two times greater than the heat setting time. This will give the seal ample opportunity to set and cool under pressure. It will also allow the heating element to properly cool down as well. Again, allowing the sealer to cool down this way will add longevity to all of the heat-sealing parts.

Be sure to contact ABC Office with any of your heat sealer questions. We also sell replacement parts for most heat sealer models.

Widmer E-3 Embosser

Are you searching for an electronic document embosser that provides consistent reliability and toughness? The Widmer E-3 embossing machine is one of the most durable embossing machines available on the market today.

The E-3 embosser is intended for heavy-duty daily use. It may be operated consistently throughout the workday without any downtime. The end result of embossed text, logos or numbers looks highly professional.

This model from Widmer uses custom embossing plates. The plates may include logos, text or numbers. The E-3 is made from durable die-cast metal components and features some of the finest quality handcraftsmanship found in an embosser. The unit may be used to emboss carbon forms, diplomas, certificates, legal documents, checks, card stock, etc.

Is security a concern? The Widmer E-3 embosser has a convenient secure locking device that helps discourage unauthorized access to the stamping plate. You may manually adjust the stamping depth and pressure to accommodate positioning on a document with the Widmer E-3.

An automatic trigger comes standard. It provides helpful hands-free operation and ease of use. The Widmer model E-3 embosser is a popular model with justice of the peace divisions in several states, schools, various government branches and large offices. Most electric embossers available today simply do not get any better than this one.

• Features rapid operation and consistent accuracy
• Ideal for use with single sheet and two-part carbonized forms
• You can emboss diplomas, legal papers, certificates, etc.
• Imprints within three inches from the edge of the document

Have custom embossing artwork? Call us at 1-800-658-8788 for help. We also offer competitive discount pricing for orders with multiple embossing units. Be sure to call for more details!

NewAir AF-310 Evaporative Cooling Fan

The NewAir AF-310 100 square foot evaporative cooling fan actually helps you save money while cooling off. The AF-310 features a unique evaporative tower cooling fan design as opposed to a typical air conditioning unit. The tall and sleek AF-310 tower fan may be used as an all-in-one swamp cooler and humidifier.

The NewAir brand fan delivers an impressive 60-degree oscillation pattern. This helps improve air circulation for a much wider area, when compared to competing models. In addition to the numerous features packed into this multi-functional cooling unit, the AF-310 electric tower fan comes with a convenient remote controller and an electric timer.

In addition to employing the NewAir AF-310 air conditioner to cool of your room, we recommend that you also use the evaporative cooling fan feature by enabling the swamp function. This helps to circulate fresh and damper air in the room. Or, it acts as a humidifier to keep the airflow clean and fresh and helps you stay clear of bothersome allergies.

NewAir AF-310 cooling fan provides 312.37 CFM to continuously improve ambient temperatures across a 100 sq. ft. area. Evenly distributed airflow helps reduce the indoor temperature by up to 20 degrees F. The NewAir AF-310 air works best in dry, arid locations such as Arizona, Nevada and most other western states. Adding moisture to the air, the NewAir AF-310 Evaporative Cooling Fan cools and improves the humidity level in your home. This is especially useful if you want to reduce the ambient temperature in your home, or if the air in your location is excessively dry.

Be sure to watch the informative video demonstration below of the NewAir AF-310 Evaporative Cooling Fan, and be sure to call ABC Office today at 1-800-658-8788 to order the AF-310 Evaporative Cooling Fan.

Portable Ice Maker

Let’s say you’re looking for an ice maker, but you don’t need a large commercial or residential unit. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of portable ice maker models available today. It’s good to know some of the icemaker basics to help you choose an icemaker that best meets your needs.

Portable ice makers are ideal for small spaces, such as a small apartment or dorm. They also come in handy when you’re in an RV or a boat. Also, a portable ice maker is the best alternative to not having an integrated ice maker in your refrigerator. Here’s a look at two models recently added to our website, ranging from the lowest-priced to the highest.

NewAir AI-100BK Portable Ice Maker

NewAir AI-100BK Ice Maker

The NewAir AI-100BK portable ice maker may be small, but it delivers impressive ice volume results in very little time. This little countertop unit can produce up to 28 pounds of ice per day. The model AI-100BK offers a nice selection of three ice cube sizes. This gives you added flexibility to fit your specific ice needs for each unique occasion.

This ice maker is fairly lightweight and portable enough for indoor or outdoor use. It’s simple to use and easy to maintain. The NewAir model AI-100BK portable ice maker is ideal for occasional parties or special events, and provides all the extra ice you need to keep beverages chilled on a hot day.

Here is a very informative video demo of the NewAir AI-100BK portable ice maker in action.

AI-215SS Stainless Steel Portable Ice Maker

AI-215SS Stainless Steel Portable Ice Maker

You can produce up to 50 lbs. of ice per day with the AI-215SS stainless steel portable ice maker. This impresive little model delivers efficient and speedy ice production in just a few minutes. You can select from three different ice sizes, depending on your needs. The AI-215SS model delivers a substantial amount of ice for almost any occasion. All you need to do is add water and let the machine do the rest.

The AI-215SS will even let you know when you’re running low on water so that ice production continues uninterrupted. You also have the option to set the timer (up to 18 hours in advance) to have plenty of ice ready when your party is ready to start. The unit comes with convenient self-cleaning features and a side drain that makes cleaning a simple process.

Here is a video demo of the AI-215SS stainless steel portable ice maker in action.

Be sure to contact ABC Office today at 1-800-658-8788 to order your portable ice maker!

Roll Laminator

1. When Should I Use a Roll Laminator? When Should I Use a Pouch Laminator?

It really depends on the size of the document you are laminating and the volume you need to laminate. Traditionally, it was assumed that pouch laminators were used for small documents and roll laminators were used for large documents. This still holds true to a certain point, but volume also plays a big role. You can still laminate small documents on a roll laminator, but just a lot more at a time. If you plan to laminate a few small items on occasion, you might as well use a pouch laminator and save yourself wasted film. Also, be aware that a roll laminator will take up a lot more space than a pouch laminator. The methods used between the two machines are different, but the end result looks the same.

2. Why Do Some Laminators Have a Reverse Button?

If for any reason your pouch or roll laminator gets jammed, the reverse function is excellent for backing out documents for re-adjustment or clearing jams. This is especially nice when loading film rolls on a roll laminator. It is not uncommon to accidentally feed a document through a pouch laminator crooked, in which case the reverse function is a must-have.

3. Why Do Some Laminators Have a Temperature Control?

Temperature control is nice for adjusting the heat to accommodate various thicknesses and styles of lamination film. Different mil thicknesses and types of lamination film melt at different temperatures. Several laminators come with preset temperatures, but many higher-end laminators come with a fully variable temperature control.

4. What Is The Purpose of the Speed Controller?

Speed control is another way to help control the quality of the laminated product. Some films, in conjunction with temperature control, need the speed to be adjusted for optimal quality.

5. What Mil Thickness Is Best to Use?

The mil thickness used depends entirely on what you will be laminating and how rigid you want the end result to be. If you are laminating cardstock, thicker film may not be required. If you are laminating 20-pound paper, you may want some lamination film that is a little thicker. One of the most common lamination film thicknesses purchased is 5mil.

6. After I run Something Through the Laminator, What Does it Mean When the Film is Cloudy?

If the lamination film is cloudy, you are running your laminator too cold and need to increase the temperature. The cloudiness is un-melted film.

7. What Causes Lamination Film to Ripple?

If the film is rippling, your laminator is running too hot. Turn down the laminator temperature. That should eliminate the ripples.

8. What Does it Mean if the Film has Bubbles?

If the film has bubbles, the laminator is running too hot. If the laminator is too hot, the film can boil and bubble. Turn down the laminator temperature. This should eliminate the problem.

Carnation CR3 Mixed Bill Currency Counter

1. Does a bill counter only count money?

Most bill counters can be used to count coupons, tickets and other paper items. Simply look at the specifications of the bill counter and verify the minimum and maximum bill size the counter can handle. If your ticket or coupon falls within those dimensions, you should be fine.

2. Can bill counters determine the value of the money being counted?

Most bill counters cannot determine the value of the bills being counted. Most (95%) just count the total number of bills being run through the machine. The only bill counters we currently sell that can determine the value of currency being counted are the Carnation CR3 Mixed Bill Currency Counter and the Ribao DCJ-280 2 Pocket Discriminator.

3. Is there any machine performance difference between counting new and used bills?

Bill counters can handle both new and used bills. The only difference is that most bill counters can only count half the amount of used bills as new at a time. This is because bent and crumpled bills take up more space than crisp new bills in the hopper.

4. Do all bill counters include counterfeit detection?

Many bill counters today include counterfeit detection. They will count the currency and if a fake bill is detected the machine will stop and alert you. The most common counterfeit detection methods used are Ultraviolet (UV) and Magnetic (MG) detection.

5. What is bill size detection?

When counting bills, size detection will let you know if there are any size anomalies in the bills being counted. This feature is often used as a counterfeit detection measure.

6. What is MG detection?

MG stands for magnetic. Magnetic detectors in bill counters are capable of sensing the magnetic properties of ink used in legal U.S. currency. With MG detection on, the bill counter will alert you if a bill lacking magnetic properties is detected.

7. What is UV detection?

UV stands for ultraviolet. Ultraviolet detectors in bill counters can sense certain UV properties only found in legal tender. Bill counters with UV capabilities will alert you if money is found lacking UV properties and tag it as counterfeit.

8. Why would you want a dust extraction system in a bill counter?

Bills, after being handled and used, collect dust and particles. A dust extraction system, found on some select higher-end models, uses a vacuum to remove dust while it is being counted. This is especially nice for people who have allergies or want to maintain a clean environment. Many bills also include dust from various narcotics that you will want to eliminate.

9. What is the purpose of a dust shield?

A dust shield helps keep particles and dust from counted bills from filling the air. Once the bills are counted, the dust shield can be raised for removal of the counted bills.

10. Are bill counters safe?

Although you do not want children handling a bill counter, bill counters will not cause any physical harm.

11. Are there any bill counters that run on batteries?

Currently, we do not offer any billing counting machines that can run on battery power only. Most low and all mid/high-volume bill counters cannot run on batteries due to the limited power output.

12. What is the best bill / money counter?

There is no one make or model that is considered the best (in our opinion). This is because there are so many variables when it comes to choosing a bill counter. Our customers prefer Carnation, Ribao, Cassida, Klopp and Magner. These brands are well known within the industry and are viewed as solid, dependable machines.

Be sure to take advantage of our 2016 Spring Cleaning Sale! For a limited time, you can save up to 50% off new, demo and used office machines, office furniture and supplies. Sale ends May 31, 2016. Call 1-800-658-8788 today for more details.

Click here to see our Showroom and Demo Model List!

Click here to see our New Inventory Clearance List!

All office machines, furniture, supplies, etc., available while inventory lasts. Shipping costs not included with product price. Please contact an ABC Office customer service representative at 1-800-658-8788 to order today!

All items have been inspected and are in good working condition. Most machines have been lightly used and were demo units on display on our showroom floor. All sales are final and non-returnable.