In-mold decorating is a technique for decorating plastics that utilizes a printed and formed plastic film, often called an appliqué, which is permanently fused to a plastic part during the injection molding process. Traditionally, this process has been utilized for its supreme durability, vivid graphics and ability to eliminate secondary operations performed post molding. As … [Read more...] about Achieving Innovative Appearances with In-Mold Decorating
IMD / IML
Integrating In-Mold Decorating into Injection Molding Workflow
by John Berg, director of marketing, Sussex IM . . Costing, designing and developing a robust and repeatable manufacturing process, regardless of the application or industry, is a daunting task. In the plastics industry – specifically injection molding – the challenge can be amplified by tight tolerances for form and fit, meticulous surface finishes, the … [Read more...] about Integrating In-Mold Decorating into Injection Molding Workflow
When to Consider In-Mold Decorating – and When to Avoid It
by Eric Larson, owner, Art of Mass Production In-mold decorating is used to mold high-precision plastic parts with exceptional color and appearance. The process involves placing an appliqué - a pre-made form made from a printed sheet of plastic, which then is formed and cut to size - into an injection mold and molding behind and around the appliqué. It provides all the … [Read more...] about When to Consider In-Mold Decorating – and When to Avoid It
IMD/IML: Common Performance Considerations and Test Methods
by Dave Schoofs, product development, Central Decal Company Over the past 30 years, in-mold decorating and labeling has become a common method of providing labeling, signage and user interface on many durable and consumable products. There are a few common benefits to IMD/IML and in-mold foils, including permanency of the graphic, reduced labor content, simplified supply … [Read more...] about IMD/IML: Common Performance Considerations and Test Methods
Tech Watch: KURZs IMD/IMR Technology
Edited by Lara Copeland, contributing editor, Plastics Decorating KURZ, Charlotte, North Carolina, offers a broad portfolio of IMD/IMR transfer foils that affords great flexibility in design, enabling flexibility in aesthetic design via a wide range of effects, such as piano black, high-resolution four-color process graphics, engineered patterns and woodgrains (in continuous … [Read more...] about Tech Watch: KURZs IMD/IMR Technology