Using the Basic Finishing Module (BFM)

The Basic Finishing Module (BFM) is a high-capacity stacker designed to collate and stack up to 3000 sheets (20 lb paper or equivalent) and staple up to 100 sheets of 20 lb (75 gsm).

Select the BFM or BFM Plus finisher as the output device

  1. Select the Output tab from a Job or Queue Properties window.
  2. Select [Stapling/Finishing: Output Location].
  3. Select [Finisher 'X'].
  4. Select either:
    -System Specified
    -Auto Switch
    -Main Stacker
    -Top Tray

Define stacker settings and other adjustments affecting the BFM

There are several factors that may impact stacking quality and overall productivity of the BFM such as minimizing paper curl, setting stacking limits, improving jam rate, and the use of the variable shaped tray for better registration. The following describes how to ensure the quality of your output and improve overall productivity.

 

Enable/Disable Automatic Image Permanence for All Stock Weights

The Xerox Nuvera is designed to optimize fusing performance across the supported range of paper types and weights. The BFM uses the paper weight programmed when loading paper to optimize registration and compiling. Enable the AIP selection from [System: User Diagnostics] to achieve the best fuse temperature and minimize curl in the stacked output.

 

Set BFM Stacker Limits

While the BFM can stack up to 3,000 sheets, it is best to set a stacking limit that is a more comfortable stack size and not so large and heavy to lift or transport. Setting a manageable limit also helps to avoid paper curl that can occur in a large stack, which then eliminates the need for operator intervention.

The BFM detects when the stacker is about to reach its limit and automatically schedules an unload when the next set is completed. If you have two BFMs in the system and one becomes full, the system automatically switches to the second BFM.

Follow the steps below to set unique stacker limits for each stacker on the system.

  1. Select [Print Manager: Stacking tab].
  2. Right click on one of the finishing devices and select [Stacker Limits]. The Stacker Limits window displays.
  3. Set Stacking Limits for each stacker that is available on your system:
  4. Main Stacker: This field identifies the number of sheets not to exceed in determining when to unload the BFM main stacker. Select from 200 - 3000 sheets.

    Bindexer Capacity: This field identifies the number of sheets that can be compiled in the BFM main compiler for unfinished sets only. This feature allows you to control the number of sheets to be compiled before they are placed onto the stack. Select from 15 - 100 sheets (20 lb paper).

    If you leave this field blank, the Automated Bindexer is in effect. The system automatically calculates the thickness of the unfinished set in the compiler before the sets are placed onto the stack. The system uses the lower of the manual or automatic setting. Bindexer is set to 100 at install.

    Adjust the Bindexer setting to:
    - Help reduce excessive curl on sheets (lower the setting)
    - Manage special stocks such as coated stock
    - Improve stacking of some papers (lower the setting)
    - Improve jam rate of heavy papers
    - Reduce the occurrence of BFM faults and the number of wasted sheets in the compiler (lower the setting)
    - Improve problem jobs by reducing to 35 (if setting is 35 and job is 37 sheets, increase to 37 or more)
Note

NOTE: When running smaller stapled sets (15 sheets or less), limit the quantity to 100 maximum. Unload the stacker after each quantity is completed.

Set BFM Registration Values

Paper registration at the BFM is impacted by curl. Follow the steps below to improve paper registration quality at the BFM for each BFM on the system. However, it is recommended that you first resolve curl issues with the IOT decurler or, if available, the Sheet Enhancement Module setting (see Adjusting the Decurler) before enabling this feature.

  1. Select [Print Manager: Stacking tab].
  2. Right click on one of the finishing devices and select [Stacker Limits]. The Stacker Limits window displays.
  3. Select one of the following checkboxes in the Set Registration Quality area of the window:
    Improve Set Registration:
    If sheets exiting the print engine have an excessive amount of upcurl preventing the BFM from pushing sheets from the lead edge into registration position, select this checkbox. This selection enables and lowers the scuffer in the BFM, which applies pressure to the center of a dual staple job set, minimizing the amount of pucker or buckle between the staples. It also helps push the sheets to the registration gate. In addition to improving set registration, this feature helps to reduce jams.

    Improve Initial Pages Registration Within Set:
    Select this checkbox if you are experiencing jams and paper curl within sets. The system disables buffering between sets. While registration of stock is improved, productivity will be impacted. The system skips a number of pitches until the compiler is ready to accept new sheets.

Using the Variable Shaped Tray

If you are still experiencing curl in the stacked output and want to further improve stacking quality, you can install the Variable Shaped Tray on the stacker tray. The Variable Shaped Tray is available through a customer kit for all BFMs and can be installed and removed by the customer. It is designed to enhance the stacking of stock in the tray by improving sheet flatness. If you are experiencing early unloads, jams, curling or poor stacking, use this feature for paper <140 gsm, only after trying the standard decurl adjustments. Keep in mind that some papers will run best without the tray installed, especially if no curl exists. Do not use this feature for stock >140 gsm.

To install the Variable Shaped Tray:

  1. Slowly pull out the Elevator Tray on the BFM.
  2. Place the Variable Shaped Tray on the BFM Elevator Tray. It drops directly into the Elevator Tray when it is in the unload position.
  3. Carefully push the Elevator Tray back into the BFM being careful not to damage the actuator on the right side of the tray.

To remove the Variable Shaped Tray:

  1. Slowly pull out the Elevator Tray on the BFM.
  2. Unload the stacker, if necessary.
  3. Lift the Variable Shaped Tray off the Elevator Tray.
  4. Push the Elevator Tray back into the BFM.

Unloading stock from the Variable Shaped Tray:

  1. Slowly pull out the Elevator Tray on the BFM being careful not to disturb the stack.
  2. Only unload up to two (2) reams of stock at a time, being careful to maintain stack integrity
  3. For the the last two reams slide your fingers under the staple cutouts on the right of the tray.
  4. Slide your hands back to mid-stack, lift and remove the stock.
  5. Close the Elevator Tray.

 

Explore the links below to learn all of the ways to utilize the BFM.

Delivering Document Sets to a Stacker

Using Offset to Organize Documents in a Stack

Replacing Staple Cartridges

Clearing Staple Jams

Clearing Paper Jams

Unloading the Stacker