How does a printing house choose a suitable folding machine?

In the printing production process, the folding machine is a key post-processing equipment, which directly affects the folding accuracy, production efficiency and cost control of printed products. Different printing businesses (such as books, albums, leaflets, packaging boxes, etc.) have different requirements for folding machines. This article will systematically introduce how printing plants can choose suitable folding machines according to their own needs to ensure efficient, stable and low-cost production operations.

T520/12H4W-F

1. Clarify production needs

Before choosing a folding machine, the printing house needs to evaluate its own production needs, including:

Product type

Books and magazines → High-precision, multi-fold equipment is required

Leaflets, DM sheets → High-speed, automatic stacking function

Inner pages of packaging boxes → Folding machines with strong adaptability to thick paper

Special folding methods (such as door folding, accordion folding) → Multi-function folding machines are required

Production volume

Small batches, multiple varieties → Suitable for semi-automatic or fast plate change models

Large batches, stable orders → Fully automatic high-speed folding machines

Paper specifications

Weight range (such as 35-200g/m²)

Size adaptability (A3, A4, special sizes)

2. Core selection indicators of folding machines

1. Folding accuracy

The error should be controlled within ±0.5mm to avoid misalignment affecting subsequent binding or packaging.

High-end models use servo motors + photoelectric sensors to ensure accurate positioning.

2. Production speed

Low-speed machine: 1,000-3,000 sheets/hour (suitable for small batches)

Medium-speed machine: 3,000-6,000 sheets/hour (general purpose)

High-speed machine: 6,000-12,000 sheets/hour (suitable for large batches)

3. Folding method

Knife-type folder: suitable for high-precision, complex folding methods (such as books, periodicals, and albums)

Fence-type folder: suitable for medium and low speed, simple folding (such as leaflets)

Hybrid folder: combines knife-type and fence-type, with high flexibility

4. Automation level

Manual folder: low cost, suitable for small workshops

Semi-automatic folder: manual feeding, automatic folding

Fully automatic folder: automatic paper feeding, folding, and stacking, suitable for large-scale production

5. Paper adaptability

Can it handle different weights (such as thin paper 40g/m² or thick cardboard 200g/m²)

Does it support special materials (such as coated paper, UV printed materials)

If you have any questions, please contact us: 

julia@dgsudu.com

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