Get the Facts on In-Mold labeling

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

QUESTIONWhat is In-Mold Labeling?

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

In-Mold Labeling is a process for labeling or decorating a plastic object while the object is being formed in the mold. • In the In-Mold Labeling process, a label is placed

in the open mold and held in the desired position by vacuum ports, electrostatic attraction or other appropriate means.

• The mold closes and molten plastic resin is extruded or injected into the mold where it conforms to the shape of the object.

• The hot plastic permeates the label, making it an integral part of the molded object.

BONUSWhat is difference between Pressure Sensitive (PS) labels and In-Mold Labels? • PS label is affixed to the

“surface” of the plastic object

• In-Mold Label actually becomes part of the molded part.

ANSWER

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

QUESTIONHow does an In-Mold Label compare to a traditional Pressure-Sensitive Label?

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

How does an In-Mold Label compare to a traditional Pressure-Sensitive Label?

GRAFILM®• Effectively moves with the

plastic when exposed to thermal influences.

• In-mold label used with most injected materials, including recycled materials

• Label material does not have to match the injected product

• Reduces cost

• More durable, permanent solution.

• Patented technology

ANSWER

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

In-Mold Labels • Applied to a mold at time of

manufacture. • Then injected with a

variety of hot plastics under pressure to form the required part.

• Label usually must be made of the same material that the mold is being injected with.

• Label becomes part of the finished product

Pressure-Sensitive Labels • Typically applied by the

manufacturer• An extra step, usually

manual, when applied. • The down side to PS

labels is if they are exposed to any harsh environments, they can peel, fall off and are not as durable as In-mold products.

QUESTIONWhat are the advantages of In-Mold Labeling?

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

Several advantages of In-Mold Label include:• Permanent

It will not peel off and cannot be removed by the end user of the product.

• AccuratePositioned by robotics improves placement accuracy and prevents missing labels.

• FlexibleConforms to the shape and texture of the plastic part. This gives the product designer greater flexibility in product decoration and brand labeling.

Robotics• Various Payload

Applications• Human-Machine

Interface• Custom-Designed

Tooling• End-Effector

Technology• 65,000+ hrs MTBF

ANSWER

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

QUESTIONIs In-Mold Labeling the same as In-Mold Decorating?

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

Is In-Mold Labeling the same as In-Mold Decorating?

Did you know?Both IML and IMD use In-Mold Labels, and the terms may be used interchangeably.

ANSWER

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

In-Mold Labeling(IML)• Blow molded, injection

molded or thermoformed packaging.

• Margarine tubs, shampoo bottles or detergent bottles.

In-Mold Decorating(IMD)• Decoration of higher

value durable plastic products

• Children’s toys, sporting goods, appliances, etc. IMD-durable goods can be injection molded, blow molded, etc.

QUESTIONWhat are common applications for In-Mold Labels?

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

What are common applications for In-Mold Labels?Product Decoration Applications Decals and decorative trim on products, such as outboard boat motors, kayaks, basketball hoops and children’s toys.

Brand Image Applications Company logos or model-specific graphics on such products as vacuum cleaners, automobile batteries or home appliances.

Safety and Security Applications Warning labels on such products as lawnmowers and child car seats, as well as anti-counterfeiting labels.

TRACK ITIn-Mold Labels can be used to authenticate and track products through the supply chain.

ANSWER

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

QUESTIONWhat types of companies benefit from In-Mold Labels?

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

What types of companies benefit from In-Mold Labels?

Three key segments in Manufacturing market • Decoration (Brand)• Warning/Safety • Functional

Any manufacturer that is applying pressure-sensitive labels to plastic parts can benefit from In-Mold Labels.

Bank ItLabor costs are reduced by the elimination of manual processes. Parts are received fully decorated from the molder, eliminating steps in the assembly process.

ANSWER

In-Mold Labeling FAQs

“We are very pleased with the impact Grafilm has made in our molding process and Grafilm has definitely impacted our manufacturing efficiency. Our scrap rates are down to ½% (Vs. 5 to 10% with our previous supplier) and because of that we have also lowered our overall cost of assemble.”

- KEN BOWERSOperations tooling lead for Scotts Temecula

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In-Mold Labeling FAQs