In Mold Labeling

      In-Mold Labeling (IML) Process: A detailed explanation

      Introduction:

      In mold labeling (IML) is a labeling process used in the packaging industry for creating high              quality, durable and appealing product labels.

      IML is used in the production of plastic containers, bottles alongwith other molded packaging          products. In this the pre-printed decorative film is inserted into the mold. Then molten plastic is        injected into the mold.

      The plastic fuses with the mold and takes the shape of the label.

      The process is explained below in the video

The process ensures stronger bond between the label and the plastic container and provides higher adhesive strength, superior durability alongwith aesthetic appeal.

It involves placing pre-printed polypropylene (PP) label inside the mold before molten plastic is injected.

It ensures that the label and the plastic parts are a single , inseparable unit. It negates the need for post production labeling. The labeling ensures glossy and fine finish of labels.

     Manual in mold labeling method

Automated In mold labeling

The IML process

1. Pre-printing the labels- The labels are pre-printed using flexographic printing or digital printing. They are audited for quality of text, images and finish. Then the labels are cut into precise shapes and sizes using cutting machine and then stacked according to quality grades.

     2. Label placement in the mold– A robotic arm places the pre-printed label inside the mold in           accurate dimensions as required. The arm ensures that the labels are positioned accurately               within the mold to ensure perfect alignment between the molded product and label. To hold             the label in place before the injection process is initiated electrostatic charging or vacuum                 suction is used.

    3. Injection molding process– Once the label is securely held inside the mold and positioned              accurately, the molten plastic is flown into the mold. The heat fuses the label with the                        container cover. When the mold is cooled, the label gets further fastened to the plastic part              and gets permanently embedded

   4. Inspection of the parts

The molded product is quality inspected ensuring that the label is fused properly, are free of             wrinkles and aligned in a correct manner. the defective products are discarded

    Advantages of in-mold labeling

• High durability- Resistance to wear , scratches, moisture and variations of temperature
• Great aesthetic appeal- The IML process further clarifies the image and text on label to provide high resolution, better vibrance labels.
• Cut down costs- Eliminates labor and material costs involved in post molding labeling
• Ensures higher integrity of the product- Since the label is embedded in packaging, it cant be removed or tampered with ensuring greater product integrity.

    Application industries of IML are

• Food and beverage packaging
• Cosmetics
• Consumer goods
• Industrial goods like plastic battery casings,, paint buckets, automotive parts and more

   Certain disadvantages of the process is there like

• The initial investment is high making it not a lucrative option for many manufacturers
• If not properly positioned. there are greater chances of defects.
• Once the labeling takes place, the label design cant be changed without changing the mold.