Every office space actively uses A4 paper for printing. All necessary documents, plans and other information are printed on it. A lot of archival information is stored on the shelves, a lot of unnecessary sheets that must be disposed of from time to time. Documents may contain confidential information that strangers do not need to know. For these purposes, office shredders are used, which have long been included in the list of necessary equipment.
A paper shredder is a special compartment where a document is placed page by page or in a bundle. Then the process of shredding into strips or pieces is started, after which the information becomes unavailable for recovery.
With an increased degree of encryption of documents, advanced shredders are used that are able to shred paper into minimal particles. It is very difficult to imagine a modern office without this technique. Subject to all the rules of operation, the shredder will serve for many years.
Modern models are capable of destroying not only paper, but even cardboard, dense in structure. The shredders use a multifunctional knife system that can work in two directions and shred documents to a crumb state. Also, high-quality shredder models will not be damaged if paper clips, plastic cards and even CDs get into them. High-quality office equipment will be able to grind all these items without leaving the working order. This is very convenient for banking divisions and other institutions where information must be kept secret.
Content
The main purpose
The main task of the shredder is to shred documents into small pieces, which after certain processes become inaccessible for reading and recovery. Leakage of information at an enterprise can lead to very disastrous consequences, which is why it is so important to choose high-quality equipment. It will provide a high level of secrecy, which will protect the enterprise from fatal consequences. Such a device takes up very little work space, and the benefits of its work are significant. Crumpled paper thrown into the basket does not guarantee any protection, even if it was previously torn into several pieces. An important document can fall into the wrong hands and be completely restored to a readable format.
How to choose
To choose a shredder, you need to adhere to the following points:
- Determine the type of destruction of important information. The technique has many possibilities, including working with thick cardboard and plastic cards. Such models will cost significantly more, but their cost will be fully justified.
- Shredder security level. There are 6 classifications on the market with different degrees of protection. Before going to the store, you need to determine the degree of protection, which is the most optimal option.
- It is worth paying attention to the silent operation of the models. Constant audibility will be distracting and annoying for most employees, especially when documents are shredded almost continuously.
An important parameter is the automatic lubrication of the internal knives of the device. This will ensure long-term work and significantly save money on the repair and maintenance of office equipment. Automatic locking of the paper tray will avoid unnecessary intrusion and provide a high level of security, so this parameter is also worth paying attention to.
In the workflow, there is no time for unnecessary actions, so an important function will be to turn off the power of the office device 2 minutes after idle time. This will help save electricity and provide safe protection even if you forget to turn it off.
Branded and fake devices may look the same, have the same functionality and declared characteristics. The difference can only be felt after use. Cheap equipment more often breaks down and incurs colossal losses for repairs. It is worth paying attention to companies that have a long history and have proven themselves well among consumers.
Of course, all purchasing decisions are made based on the planned budget, but sometimes it is worth overpaying a little for convenient functionality and reliable operation. This will significantly help save money on further waste when going to service centers and buying new equipment.
What are the types of paper shredders
Office equipment varies in degree of secrecy, there are 7 of them in total. Each of them meets all the necessary requirements for performing certain actions.
- Class P1. This species is capable of shredding important documents with a relatively low degree of secrecy. The strips of paper are approximately 15 mm wide, which does not provide adequate protection. Suitable for office documents that are of no importance.
- Class P2. It is responsible for shredding into longitudinal strips approximately 6 mm wide. This class produces thinner stripes, which take longer to recover the document. For documents of special national importance, this degree of protection is not suitable, but for ordinary ones, it is.
- Class P3. This degree of protection has two methods of destruction of records: longitudinal and cross. The pieces are about 4 mm wide. This class guarantees a high degree of protection.
- Class P4. Equipment of this class is widely used in institutions where information must be completely classified. The use of double cutting allows to achieve shredding of documents with a size of no more than 4 mm, which becomes absolutely inaccessible for recovery.
- Class P5. Used in structures of national importance. The cross blades can shred documents down to a width of less than 3 mm. Also, this degree helps to shred documents from thick cardboard.
- Class P6, P7. Such paper cannot be restored even by experienced specialists using all existing methods. It provides the highest level of burglary protection. The document is cut into 12,000 small pieces. Suitable for documents of national importance.
Additional Information! For normal office work, 3 or 4 classes will be enough. It will provide proper protection for the document. For top secret documents, grades 5, 6 and 7 are used. The first two classes will help you destroy unnecessary waste paper that is not secret.
Recommendations useful tips when using
Useful tips will help you significantly extend the life of the equipment and avoid unnecessary trips to the service center.
- If the model does not automatically lubricate the knives inside the device, then you must regularly do this manually. When the lubrication ends, the performance drops several times.The equipment starts to make loud noise and there is a possibility of congestion. You can lubricate the equipment yourself. To do this, it is worth evenly applying oil on a sheet of paper of the usual format and carrying out the destruction process. This procedure must be performed at least once a month, then the equipment will work without interruptions.
- Major breakdowns occur when several sheets are destroyed at the same time. You need to read the instructions and find out how many sheets can be destroyed at one time, without causing damage. Usually this number does not exceed 10 sheets. Using a large amount leads to congestion and overheating of the equipment, as well as breakage of knives inside the device.
Top 10 best shredder models
Gladwork ishred 16cd effect
Budget model, made in China. Possesses the third class of secrecy. The basket has a volume of 26 liters. Up to 16 sheets of paper can be processed at the same time. Also, it can cut plastic cards and discs. The maximum operating time in continuous mode is 3 seconds. The cut fragments are 4 × 35 mm in size.
Advantages:
- good functionality for an inexpensive model;
- there is a 1 year warranty;
- there is an auto start and an overheating indicator.
Disadvantages:
- too noisy during operation - 68 dB.
Cost: from 5000 rubles.
HSM 80.2 (5.8 MM)
A valuable representative in this segment. Made in Germany. Well suited for work in a small office. Shreds up to 5 sheets of paper at a time. A basket with a volume of 17 liters, and the power of the device is 17 watts. Also handles staples and paper clips with ease. Medium functionality - second degree of secrecy. The manufacturer has provided for the installation of engine overheating protection. The basket has a front glass through which you can observe the filling.
Advantages:
- 3 year warranty;
- light weight - 3.8 kg
Disadvantages:
- does not destroy plastic cards and discs.
Cost: from 10,000 rubles.
Profi OFFICE ALLIGATOR 707CC +
This model works at high speed. Shreds sheets to a minimum size (2x5 mm). The fourth degree of secrecy gives shape to the sheets, making them impossible to restore. The device is compact and efficient. Cuts almost all stationery that can fit into the shredder hole.
Advantages:
- almost silent work;
- destroys up to 7 sheets of paper at a time;
- increased level of secrecy with small dimensions.
Disadvantages:
- not found.
Cost: from 17400 rubles.
Bulros 5840C
The best model presented in the rating, according to customer reviews. Has the third level of secrecy. At the same time, it is able to destroy up to 40 sheets, together with staples and paper clips. The basket, with a volume of 130 liters, does not need to be cleaned frequently. The powerful 1200 watt motor does not overheat thanks to the auto start and auto reverse functions.
Advantages:
- touch control of the device;
- stylish design;
- long service life;
- high quality assembly and components.
Disadvantages:
- easily soiled.
Cost: from 10,000 rubles.
Jinpex JP-870C
The functionality of the model has been proven by a large number of positive reviews posted on the Internet. Due to the high level of secrecy (4), the device destroys paper and other small office supplies in a cross way. You can load up to 15 sheets of paper at a time. The device has a weight of 25 kg, while it is easy to move, since there are wheels on the bottom.
Advantages:
- pleasant appearance;
- there is overload protection;
- indicator lights to report errors;
- capacious basket - 24 liters.
Disadvantages:
- makes a little noise at high speed.
Cost: from 21,000 rubles.
Rexel duo
The manufacturer of this model has 50 years of experience in the production of office equipment. The shredder will do an excellent job of quickly destroying unnecessary documentation. Suitable for home use or for a small office. Possesses the third level of secrecy. Cuts paper into small strips no larger than 4x4.5 mm.Up to 9 sheets can be shredded in one load. There is a function of destruction of CD and DVD discs, staples and paper clips. The basket is filled when shredding at least 10 sheets and has a volume of 17 liters. The shredder works in a short-term mode. When enabled, vertical feed is applied.
Advantages:
- short-term shredder mode, protects the motor from overheating;
- there is a vertical paper feed into the device.
Disadvantages:
- was not found.
Cost: from 6500 rubles.
Kobra + 1СС4
Compact model, an Italian manufacturer that has been producing equipment for over 30 years. Shredder is a compact device capable of shredding classified and confidential documents in a short time and without the possibility of its recovery. This device has a third level of security and automatic start. Thanks to this, the shredder consumes a minimum amount of electricity and does not overheat.
Advantages:
- basket capacity - 28 liters;
- a viewing window allows you to control the filling;
- the minimum noise threshold is 55 dB.
Disadvantages:
- not.
Price: from 19,487 rubles.
Office KIT C-22CC
The device is well suited for office use, as it has a variety of functions and a large basket of 30 liters. Up to 6 sheets of cross-type paper can be shredded in one sitting. There are wheels for more convenient movement around the room. Automatic knife blocking when removing debris, motor overheating protection - all this makes the use of the shredder convenient and durable.
Advantages:
- a handle located on the basket facilitates the cleaning process;
- wide functionality of the model.
Disadvantages:
- does not destroy discs, plastic cards, paper clips and staples.
Cost: from 22,000 rubles.
Profioffice PIRANHA 7CC
Domestic device, but assembly takes place in China. Copes with the assigned tasks. Cross cut type. Cuts paper quickly. The motor has a power of 240 W. The receiving basket of 24 liters can be pulled out and closed at the user's request.
Advantages:
- automatic shredder operation;
- the motor is protected against overheating.
Disadvantages:
- no viewing window;
- there is no slot for the destruction of disks and plastic cards.
Cost: from 4500 rubles.
Fellowes 8cd
The American shredder is recognized as one of the best in the office equipment market. The 240 W motor is excellent at destroying sheets - 8 pieces in one sitting. To pick up the paper, you just need to insert a sheet, and the shredder will start working automatically. The Safety Lock function will prevent accidental activation of the appliance, and the Reverse button will help to clean the knives and remove paper jams. In addition to rich functionality and practicality, the exterminator has a stylish appearance and a low weight of 5 kg. The manufacturer provides an extended warranty for a period of 24 months
Advantages:
- functional and practical;
- acceptable weight - 5 kg;
- 2 year warranty.
Disadvantages:
- based on customer reviews, there was not a single minus.
Cost: from 7500 rubles.
Selection errors
The main mistakes when buying a shredder are the choice of equipment with the wrong class of work. Or ordering through unverified online stores with cheap office equipment. You need to beware of buying if the brand name is completely unknown, even if they offer a significant discount for it. Buying good equipment from trusted brands will ensure reliable operation without loss of quality and repair costs. A common mistake is to destroy plastic cards and other materials that are completely unsuitable for this model. This is a direct path to significant equipment failure. It is important to set tasks and determine the range of capabilities of the device. From these parameters it is necessary to determine the model and its purchase.
