BRINK Molds & Automation, Harskamp, Netherlands, is a supplier of high-performance molds and automation solutions for the packaging industry. The company specializes in molds with extremely short cycle times, in-mold labeling (IML) systems and fully integrated production solutions – especially for thin-walled packaging, technical parts and large-volume applications. Its US facility offers spare parts stock and its own service team.

Brink’s IML systems are available in standard or versatile configurations, offering efficiency in production, reduced cycle times and precision labeling. With its patented system for in-mold label insertion, time-consuming and precise adjustment is no longer required. Brink’s Flex-Cores exactly replicate the position of the mold, ensuring perfectly accurate and repeatable label placement on the product.

Standard IML Systems
With the standard IML system from Brink, operators gain maximum efficiency in the production environment. Whether operations need to switch quickly between molds, assemble complex products or integrate additional downstream processes, the system adapts to evolving production requirements.

At the same time, high-speed servo-controlled movements and short robot intervention times increase accuracy and throughput. The result is a scalable and future-proof solution for in-mold labeling that combines precision and operational efficiency. Other features include:

• Servo-adjustable frame: The servo-adjustable frame allows quick adjustments for different mold heights, ensuring flexibility across various mold and product sizes.
• Rotatable X-axis: The system can take products from both sides of the mold, enabling efficient handling of inside and outside gated products.
• Automatic lubrication system: The integrated system ensures smooth operation with minimal downtime and reduced maintenance requirements.
• 2K molds with multiple parts: The system is capable of assembling complex products, such as buckets with handles, spoons in hinged lids and more, all done automatically by the robot.
• Designed for integration: The system can be expanded with third-party units for processes such as foiling stacks of products or inserting liners into lids, creating a complete and future-ready production solution.

Versatile IML Systems
In addition to single-face molds, the company also specializes in designing systems specifically for stack molds, which are ideal for significantly higher output, allowing the production of more products per day. The Versatile IML Systems allow customization, including:

• Standardize the production area. Run the full portfolio on one platform, including 3- and 5-sided labels, wrap-around, bottom and top labels for lids, with flexible cavity configurations (4, 6, 8, 12 or 16) to cover an entire product range.
• Refill and change labels during production using the ergonomic drawer system, ensuring maximum uptime and operator-friendly handling.
• All label adjustments are digital via the touchscreen. Select a cavity and direction and corrections are applied in the next shot. In closed-loop mode, the camera detects misalignment and corrects automatically.
• Minimize defect rates with high-speed robots to ensure high-quality output. All high-speed, servo-controlled movements result in short robot intervention times, enhancing overall efficiency.

Systems Decrease Cycle Time
At the 2025 K Show, Brink, along with Netstal, presented a production cell for a classic 1-liter round bucket. The 4-cavity mold achieved a total cycle time of only 3.8 seconds, including in-mold labeling. The produced part weighed only 22.80 grams – another step toward resource efficiency.

“Our focus is on highly dynamic injection molding solutions and IML automation for thin-walled packaging – particularly with regard to cycle time reduction, material savings and energy efficiency,” explained Matthias Arping, international sales manager at BRINK. “The increased demand for weight-optimized packaging solutions and reduced operating costs has clearly determined our development work.” n

For more information, visit www.brinkbv.com.