In-Mold-Labeling (IML)
In-Mold-Labeling is often used in the packaging industry as an alternative to printing when design requirements call for a high degree of flexibility or else when the impression cannot be directly molded on the part. The labels are usually a printed polypropylene film with a thickness of a few tenths of a millimeter. The advantage of In-Mold-Labeling is that it integrates a downstream process directly with the injection molding process. The disadvantage is a heat reduction caused by the label and the slightly reduced cycle times that this necessitates. Labels are inserted into the injection molding material using complex end-of-arm tooling technology during removal of the previous part. The label is held in position in the mold by means of a static charge or a vacuum. In-Mold-Labeling makes no more demands on the machine than those made by thin-walled molding (see thin-wall technology). Our mold making and robotics partners play an important role in this area.
In-Mold-Decoration (IMD)
In-Mold-Decoration is a widely diversified technology concerned with the decoration of parts and is used in almost every branch of injection molding. In-Mold-Decoration can be as simple as transferring a printed impression on a flat polyester film of onto a part during or it may involve a complex back molding of textiles or preformed, three-dimensional parts. The demands made on the machine are minimal. The challenges here lie with the
mold design, the automation technology
and the decorative film inserts. Depending on the process, the
injection molding machine will use a cascade control system regulated
by time, screw stroke, injection pressure or mold material inner
pressure. Often low pressure processes such as foam processing or injection-compression technology may be employed.
A Solid Foundation
In-Mold-Labeling and In-Mold-Decoration are available with all of our machines (MAXIMA, ELEKTRA and K-TEC) . The technology is based on mold design and automation processes. Our partners
can provide additional information. When dealing with complex and
time-consuming insertion and extraction processes, part costs can be
reduced with the implementation of turning stack mold technology
for back molding of material and film (and not only for the
multi-component process). With cube molds the free sides are used for
the insertion of material or film, or for removing finished parts
without affecting cycle times. Our applications stands ready to help you find the most suitable machine configuration and the best process technology for your needs.
