Manual, semi-automatic or automatic: Which eyelet machine should you choose?

To achieve a high-quality finish in digital or textile printing, you may find yourself at a stage where you need to use a machine to fit eyelets. You may also be at a stage where you need to invest in new machinery to optimise workflow in your workshop and are starting to look at the options available.

On the market, we can classify ring-setting machines into three main groups: manual, semi-automatic and automatic machines. There are also more sophisticated and customised machines that allow for the complete automation of the ring-setting process.

Below, we will look at the main features of each of the machines, how they differ, and the criteria we need to consider when choosing the right pot-cooker.

Table of contents:

• 1. Characteristics and differences between pot-makers
  • 1.1. Manual machines
  • 1.2. Semi-automatic machines
  • 1.3. Automatic machines
• 2. Criteria for choosing an eyelet machine
  • 2.1. Production cycles and capacity
  • 2.2. Working hours
  • 2.3. Security
  • 2.4. Place of work
  • 2.5. Machine specialisation

Features and differences between eyelet machines

Manual machines

These are the simplest and most compact perforating machines on the market. They are characterised by their robust welded frame. They are suitable for PVC tarpaulins, rigid materials such as Coroplast, and textiles. As they are compact, they are easy to transport and can be used on a table or on the floor. Some models are not recommended for use on textiles as they may cause creases.

At PLASTGrommet, we offer two models: the HPS025 grommet inserter and the HPS020R tabletop grommet inserter, both of which are easy to use.

The main difference between them is that the HPS025 machine is easily portable, weighing approximately 5 kg and measuring no more than 50 cm in height, making it the preferred choice for working with tarpaulins of various sizes and almost anywhere (on the floor, on a finishing table, etc.).

In contrast, the HPS020R machine is a table-top eyelet machine and is available in two models. The first is a self-piercing model for PVC tarpaulins, whilst the second model requires pre-cutting for textiles, as in this case the machine first needs to cut the fabric before inserting the eyelet.

Both machines are fitted with an interchangeable nozzle for fitting plastic eyelets. The HPS025 model can fit Ø8, Ø12 or Ø16 mm eyelets, whilst the HPS020R can fit the same sizes as well as larger sizes such as Ø25 and Ø40 mm, which are typically used on decorative curtains.

Cutting machines are very common in the finishing department and are directly related to manual machines. At PLASTGrommet, we have a Corner Rounder, based on the HPS025 manual machine, capable of rounding the corners of materials such as polycarbonate, cellular polypropylene, Dibond, methacrylate, cardboard, rigid PVC and foam board, amongst others (you’ll find more sign-making tools for your print shop here).

Semi-manual machines

These are pneumatic machines characterised by being the most convenient for carrying out finishing work effortlessly. The operator must load the eyelets and washers manually; the work is carried out quickly and safely, allowing the operator to focus on the quality of the finish.

The Queen and SpeedQueen models are the two models we offer to make work easier in print shops; they are not recommended for textiles as they may cause creases. The difference between them is that the SpeedQueen comes with a handy foot pedal that allows eyelets to be fitted more comfortably, leaving the operator’s hands free to hold the material, whilst the Queen is operated by a push-button on the side.

Pneumatic machines are capable of punching holes and inserting the eyelets at the same time, with the simplicity and speed of pressing a single button or pedal. This ensures that the eyelet-setting machine is fully operational at all times.

These are robust and durable semi-automatic machines, featuring an ergonomic design and weighing just 10 kg, making them easy to transport. They are compatible with plastic eyelets of Ø8, Ø12 or Ø16 mm, using an additional nozzle.

At PLASTGrommet, we use the Crossover machine to apply eyelets to textiles. This machine enables plastic eyelets to be fitted to a variety of materials, as it allows the cutting pressure and the eyelet closing pressure to be adjusted, ensuring a perfect finish.

Automatic machines

They are ideal for large-scale production runs as they are the fastest on the market and can handle a wide range of materials, including PVC banners, corrugated sheets and textiles. When efficiency is required for attaching large quantities of eyelets, automatic machines are the best option.

The quality of the work is unquestionable with these tools. For example, the machines we offer in this product range are fitted with a precision laser pointer, and if the eyelet positioning marks are printed using the RIP during the printing process, the finishing process becomes a quick and easy task, saving a great deal of time.

The Evolution model is the most basic automatic pneumatic machine for workshops that print on PVC tarpaulins. It features positioning guides to ensure there are no errors or wastage of material. It can attach up to 35 eyelets per minute and is a highly versatile machine. You can use it on a wheeled platform, with a support table for rolls, or with a table featuring folding wings.

The AutoCross model is very fast; it can attach up to 60 eyelets per minute thanks to its powerful motor, and can be used not only on PVC tarpaulins but also on all types of textiles. It comes as standard mounted on a wheeled workbench, making it easy to move it around within the workshop’s finishing area.

The MultiPress model is the top-of-the-range machine for the automatic insertion of plastic eyelets, as it incorporates all the features of the AutoCross and also features a touch screen, sensors to detect the presence of eyelets and/or washers, a maintenance alert, a pre-cut mode for special textiles… In short, it is a reliable industrial machine, designed to handle intensive use whenever necessary.

If you’re looking not just for an automatic grommet-setting machine but for a solution for large volumes of standardised production, then you need automated systems. Automated systems for finishing materials can calculate the correct position for a grommet and set it without the operator having to press the pedal for each placement. At PLASTGrommet, we offer the Finishing Station and the FinishingSystems range – systems designed to automate the finishing of canvas.

Criteria for choosing an eyelet machine

We recommend that you bear in mind the following five criteria to help you choose the machine that best suits your actual needs.

Production cycles and capacity

It can be regarded as one of the main criteria for selecting the right eyelet-setting machinery.

Based on your forecast of the volume of orders and work you’ll need to send to your workshop’s finishing department, you’ll know whether you can handle the work manually or whether you need to automate the processes.

Manual machines rely entirely on the effort of the person operating them. In contrast, semi-automatic and automatic machines can run all day long and simply require the operator’s control and supervision.

Working hours

Semi-automatic machines reduce processing time compared with manual machines. If, in your post-printing process, the finishing department is the most time-consuming stage and is holding up the final delivery, this is a problem that needs to be resolved by using faster machines.

Security

Semi-automatic and automatic machines handle the task of positioning the parts and are fitted with safety systems in the positioning area, making them very safe. Automating the process also reduces workplace accidents and physical strain on staff, which is another important point to bear in mind.

Place of work

The amount of space currently available in the workshop to house the machine may determine which machine is chosen. If production requirements increase, it may be time to consider adapting the space to allow for potential growth. This is a key consideration if you start working with large-format tarpaulins.

Machine specialisation

As well as choosing the right type of machine, it is important to consider the manufacturer. Specialised manufacturers tend to produce higher-quality machines because their design and development efforts are focused on a single type of solution.

At PLASTGrommet, we are manufacturers and have the capacity to adapt to any requirement. We design and develop grommet-making machines for more than 30 countries.