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
IMD / IML
In-Mold Labeling and the Role of Static Generation
by Stewart Gordon-Smith, business development manager, Meech International In the eye of the consumer, the packaging of a product plays a fundamental role in the preservation of a brand's image. One could argue that the label of a product acts as the corporate face of a brand, which means that poorly applied labeling (whether it is creased, inadequately aligned or displaying … [Read more...] about In-Mold Labeling and the Role of Static Generation
Screen Printed IML vs. Direct Digital Printing
by Mike Ruminski, senior design IML technician, Serigraph During the SPE Decorating & Assembly TopCon, held in June and co-located with the IMDA Symposium, Serigraph's Mike Ruminski led a workshop titled "Direct Digital Printing on Molded Product vs. Screen Printed IML." The advantages and disadvantages of each created a lively discussion on the best applications for … [Read more...] about Screen Printed IML vs. Direct Digital Printing
Tech Watch: CBW Roll-Fed IML Technology
by Brittany Willes, Plastics Decorating First developed more than 10 years ago, the roll-fed IML system from CBW Automation, Fort Collins, Colorado, has evolved over time. The recently released Pre-Cut Roll-Fed IML system's advanced technology is designed to reduce scrap and label costs, while increasing productivity. CBW originally developed the roll-fed IML approach … [Read more...] about Tech Watch: CBW Roll-Fed IML Technology
Laser Texturing Adds Another Level of In-Mold Decoration Possibilities
by Chad Hase, GF Machining Solutions Laser texturing allows for intricate and consistent designs to be added to injection molds for decorative purposes. These textures enable individualization of products ranging from automotive components to packaging by mimicking the look of leather, wood, geometric patterns and much more. When compared to conventional surface treatment … [Read more...] about Laser Texturing Adds Another Level of In-Mold Decoration Possibilities