IML (In-Mould Labeling) is the integration of the label with the packaging during the injection. In this process, the label is placed into the IML injection mould, then melted thermoplastic polymer combines with the IML label and takes the shape of the mould. Thus, production of packaging and labeling are performed at the same time.
IML process can be applied with blow moulding, injection moulding and thermoforming technologies. Today, In-Mould Labeling has become preferable because of the several major advantages by many sectors such as food, industrial pails, chemistry, health etc.
What is IML?
The term "in mould labelling" is directly derived from the technique: a preprinted polypropylene (PP) label is placed in a mould. This mould has the shape of the end product, e.g. the shape of a butter tub.
Then the molten PP is added to the mould. It fuses with the label, and while curing, takes the shape of the mould. Result: label and packaging become one.
In mould labelling can be done in the following production processes:
Injection moulding
Blow moulding
Thermoforming
In mould labelling offers several major advantages:
Maximum print quality
The offset printing technique ensures high-resolution images. Besides, you can decorate all the sides of a container with one single label.
Strong and hygienic
In mould labels resist humidity and big changes in temperature: the best solution to decorate plastic containers for frozen and refrigerated products! In mould labels are also scratch resistant, cannot crack and are not susceptible to wrinkles.
Shorter production time and lower production costs
During the in mould labeling process containers are produced and decorated in one single step. Storage of blank containers becomes unnecessary, storage and transport costs belong to the past.
Environmentally-friendly
In mould labelling saves the environment: the packaging and the label consist of the same material and can therefore be fully recycled.
Wide range of look & feel options
The same plastic packaging product can be decorated with a wide range of different materials, inks an lacquers. This allows you to differentiate your product on the shelf.
Quick design changeovers
It only takes a shift from one label design to another on your IML automation to make a quick changeover. There is almost no production loss during the start-up of a new design.
When starting up an IML project it is important to not only inform the label suppliers about the final objective of the project, but also the other partners that are involved, such as the process machine, mould and automation partners. Exchanging the production parameters between all partners helps you to make each IML project a success!
We operate a state-of-the-art technology that produces impeccable labels, ready to be moulded on your containers of all shapes.
| Product No. | CCPPM052 |
| Facestock | Metallized BOPP |
| Adhesive | Permanent acrylic adhesive |
| Liner | Glassine white liner |
| Color | Silver |
| Service Temperature | -20° F-200° F |
| Application Temperature | -23° F |
| Printing | Full Color |
| Features | Special bright silver color can meet the nice printing effects requirements, used for cosmetics and personal care products bottle labels |
| Size | Customized |
