By Paul Uglum, president, Uglum Consulting, LLC Plastic decoration is, by its very nature, a multifaceted and complex set of technologies. Given this, it is important to understand the set of skills and training needed to successfully execute decorated plastic design and manufacture. Unfortunately, there is no one degree or educational path that provides all of the skills … [Read more...] about Developing Engineering Skills for Decorating Launch and Production
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Process Highlight: In-Mold Decorating and Labeling
BRINK+31 (0)318 452 500www.brinkbv.com Brink, Harskamp, The Netherlands, a supplier of automation systems and molds, demonstrated its expertise in IML automation and extremely fast cycle times at this year’s K trade fair in Düsseldorf. One highlight was the production cell for a classic 1-liter round bucket, presented jointly with Netstal. The 4-cavity mold achieved a total … [Read more...] about Process Highlight: In-Mold Decorating and Labeling
IMDA Association New: October/November 2025
Make Meaningful Connections to GrowIML, IMD and IME are much easier to do well – and with less scrap – when everyone in the production chain is an expert. From designing the tooling and selecting substrates or coatings to understanding the challenges in the molding process, successful in-mold projects happen when the right people come together to plan and execute. So, how do … [Read more...] about IMDA Association New: October/November 2025
Association for In-Mold Processes Honors Charter Members, Looks to the Future
By Dianna Brodine, executive director, In-Mold Decorating Association The In-Mold Decorating Association (IMDA) is celebrating its 20-year anniversary in 2025 – a milestone achieved due to strong member support and the dedication of a group of companies that has served as advisors and leaders. At an awards ceremony during the Plastic Product Decorating Summit, held … [Read more...] about Association for In-Mold Processes Honors Charter Members, Looks to the Future
The State of Plastics Manufacturing: Challenges, Shifts and Opportunities Ahead
By Laurie Harbour, partner, Wipfli Advisory LLC The plastics manufacturing industry is navigating an increasingly complex business landscape. Economic pressures, shifting global trade dynamics and structural labor challenges are squeezing profitability and forcing leaders to rethink strategies for sustainable growth. Economic pressures and tariff impactsGlobal trade … [Read more...] about The State of Plastics Manufacturing: Challenges, Shifts and Opportunities Ahead