Plastics Decorating The 2021 In-Mold Decorating Association (IMDA) Awards Competition recognized outstanding in-mold labeling (IML), in-mold decorating (IMD) and in-mold electronics (IME) submissions that were produced in 2020 or slated for release in 2021. Entries received from around the world showcased the best in in-mold design and technical achievement, and this year’s … [Read more...] about IMDA Awards Competition Recognizes the Best in IML/IMD/IME
2021 July/Aug
Association News: July/August 2021
Plastics Decorating Letter from the Chair In our last update, we announced that the Division was amending its focus from Decorating and Assembly to Decorating and Coatings. This migration has been taking place for the past several years and has shown to be a very symbiotic relationship for our members! We are pleased to announce that the SPE now has formally approved this … [Read more...] about Association News: July/August 2021
Plasma Treatment Transforms Plastic Parts into High-Value Products
by Ray Chen and Ryan Blaik, PVA TePla America For manufacturers and injection and blow molders that work with different kinds of plastics (i.e., polycarbonate, polyethylene and polypropylene), utilizing plasma treatments can create competitive advantages and transform specific parts into specialized, engineered components with 10 times the value. Plasma is a state of matter – … [Read more...] about Plasma Treatment Transforms Plastic Parts into High-Value Products
Choosing the Right Pad Printer for the Next Project
by Ted Van Horn, sales engineer, Engineered Printing Solutions Pad printing still is the most efficient, cost effective and reliable method for many plastic decorating projects. And, for some of the more difficult materials to print on – such as certain medical device applications and oddly shaped parts – it remains the only option available. Ideally, the process for … [Read more...] about Choosing the Right Pad Printer for the Next Project
What is Plastic Decorating?
by Paul Uglum, president, Uglum Consulting, LLC A working definition for Plastic Decorating could be: The application of in-mold and post-injection molding materials and process to achieve (or impart) aesthetic, performance or functional properties to the finished part. This, of course, also includes plastic formed in other processes and gives quite a range of options. The … [Read more...] about What is Plastic Decorating?