stapling

Stapling is a method of binding sheets or other materials by driving metal fasteners called staples through the material and bending their ends to hold it together. It is commonly used to fasten sheets of paper, cardboard, fabric, insulation, and light construction materials.

A staple is a U-shaped wire. Staples are loaded into a stapler, which drives the staple through the work and shapes the prongs against an anvil to clinch the ends. The crown width and leg length determine how much material can be joined and how securely.

Staplers range from small manual office models to large industrial devices. Variants include desktop, heavy-duty, nailless, electric, and pneumatic staplers. Specialized tools exist for upholstery, carpeting, roofing, and carton sealing; different staple sizes and crown styles are used for different tasks.

Staples are typically made of steel or stainless steel and may be coated (galvanized, zinc-plated, or epoxy). Common sizes vary by crown width and leg length, reflecting material thickness and desired pull strength.

Applications include office document binding, packaging, furniture upholstery, insulation installation, and light construction. In addition, surgical stapling uses stapling devices to close wounds or connect tissues in medical procedures.

Potential issues include jams, bent or misfired staples, tearing of delicate materials, and inadequate holding. Proper staple choice, compatible stapler, and correct material thickness reduce problems.