In-mold Label: Understanding the Latest Labeling Technology

 

In-mold Label

What are In-mold Labels?

In-mold labels, also known as IML labels, are labels applied inside plastic parts during the injection molding process. With in-mold labeling, a thin film made of polypropylene (PP) or other plastic materials is placed inside the mold cavity before plastic is injected into the mold. The hot plastic flows around the label during injection molding, bonding the label permanently to the final molded plastic part. This creates a durable, long-lasting bond between the label and part.

In-mold labeling offers several advantages over traditional pressure sensitive adhesive labels applied after molding. With traditional labeling methods, the label can peel off over time from outdoor or harsh environmental exposures. IML bonds the label safely inside during molding, eliminating the risk of label peeling or loss. It creates a seamless, one-piece appearance that cannot be separated.

How does In-mold Labeling Work?

The In-Mold Labeling process integrates perfectly with injection molding equipment and workflows:

- A preprinted plastic film is fed into the mold cavity before it closes for the molding cycle. Special cutouts in the mold locate and hold the IML film in position.

- Molten plastic is injected into the closed mold at high pressure. It flows smoothly around the IML film everywhere except where blocked by the land areas cut out in the mold.

- As the plastic cools and hardens inside the mold, it fuses with the IML film chemically and mechanically. Their molecular structures merge through interdiffusion at the interface.

- When the mold opens, the finished part pops out with the label fully integrated inside. No additional labeling step is needed post-molding.

- The label surface inside the part may be primed to further enhance adhesion bonding with the plastic substrate. Special varnishes and inks withstand high molding temperatures.

Advantages of In-mold Labeling

Permanence
With the label molded directly inside, IML achieves the highest level of permanence possible. It will not peel, separate, or fall off like traditional pressure sensitive labels. The bond is impossible to break without destroying the part itself.

Aesthetics
IML creates a seamless, one-piece appearance without lines or edges between the label and part surface. It provides a high-end look and feel for consumer product packaging and durable goods labeling.

Customization
IML can apply variable data printing of barcode, date codes, serial numbers and other information. Each part comes off the line fully customized. This saves labor over secondary laser etching or pad printing steps.

Durability
Being integrated inside offers protection from the elements, chemicals, abrasion, UV exposure and other stresses that can damage externally applied labels over time. IML maintains high readability and appearance.

Consistent quality
Molding the label in-process ensures consistent, defect-free application without risk of misapplication or label loss. Automation simplifies QA processes compared to manual labeling stations.

Applications for In-mold Labeling

Some common applications for in-mold labels include:

- Consumer product packaging: personal care bottles, detergent bottles, food containers, pharmaceuticals, household goods.
- Electronics enclosures and housings: appliances, medical devices, industrial controls, AV equipment.
- Automotive interior and exterior parts: trim panels, grilles, engine covers, reflectors, control panels.
- Outdoor equipment: recreational vehicles, lawn equipment, marine vessels, utility boxes.
- Safety labels for machinery, pipework, and hazard identification.
- Decorative panels and trim components in furniture.

Driven by superior aesthetics and durability advantages, the in-mold label has been growing steadily worldwide. Grand View Research predicts global IML revenues increasing over 7% annually to reach $4.7 billion by 2025. Transportation, consumer packaged goods, and electronics will be major markets driving growth. Technological advancements continue to expand the range of applications and types of plastic products that can benefit from IML's seamless integration and high-quality labeling. As consumer demands for labeling permanence increase, in-mold labels establish themselves as the preferred labeling technology suitable for long product lifecycles and harsh use environments.

 

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About Author
Alice Mutum, is a seasoned senior content editor at Coherent Market Insights, leveraging extensive expertise gained from her previous role as a content writer. With seven years in content development, Alice masterfully employs SEO best practices and cutting-edge digital marketing strategies to craft high-ranking, impactful content. As an editor, she meticulously ensures flawless grammar and punctuation, precise data accuracy, and perfect alignment with audience needs in every research report. Alice's dedication to excellence and her strategic approach to content make her an invaluable asset in the world of market insights.

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