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In-Mold Label (IML) Production

In-mould labeling is a process in which the in-mould film is placed inside the mould during the manufacturing of containers by blow molding, injection molding, or thermoforming processes. This is done at high pressure where the pre-heated plastic is injected when the mould opens, and hence it is decorated with the label. This label serves is an integral part of the final product and the print stays dazzling on the product for life long.

According to a new report published by Reports Monitor titled, “In-mold Labels (IML) Market By Material, Printing Technology, Printing Ink, Molding Technology & End User: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2018–2025,” the In-mold Labels (IML) Market is growing rapidly from 2018 to 2025.

In another report by In-mold labels Market by Technology (Injection Molding, Extrusion, Thermoforming), Material (PP, PE, ABS, PVC, Others), Printing Technology (Flexographic, Offset, Gravure), Printing inks, End Use (Food & Beverage, Consumer Durables, Automotive) – Forecast to 2020″, the market for in-mold labels is projected to grow from USD 2.58 Billion in 2015 to USD 3.23 Billion by 2020, at an estimated CAGR of 4.54%.

Designed using the finest quality raw materials and state-of-the-art technology, VINSAK offers the print and die cutting technology for In Mould Labels which are designed and formulated using the industry norms. These in mould labels designed by the company are known for their precision, high quality and super adhesive property. These labels are custom designed and delivered in varied sizes and specifications. Since the products are designed using highest standards of printing quality therefore it assures better product and promotional presentation. Through proper communication, collaboration and stringent maintenance of standards and specifications along with the supply chain, VINSAK has carved a niche in the market because of high quality in mould label films.

Features of the In-Mould Labels:

  • Smooth finishing in-mould-label for oil industry
  • Excellent Printing Re-production
  • Excellent adhesive property
  • Superior quality
  • Precise die cutting ensuring consistent application
  • Durable and stain resistant performance
  • Improves container’s strength
  • Allows faster speeds on your filling line
  • Can be printed in up to 9 vibrant colours
  • Elimination of separate labeling process, lowers cost Upscale graphics with more graphics panel space

Benefits of In-mould Labeling

  • The biggest advantage of using in mould labeling is the freedom from glue residues, wrinkles, blisters. The label is stretched on the container in a perfect manner.
  • It is one of the quickest and cost effective methods to change the design of the label.
  • This process is environment friendly and easily recyclable because the container and the labels are made from one and same material.
  • In-mould labeling delivers manufacturing economies and efficiencies without sacrificing the aesthetics of the product packaging.
  • The labels are made from PP film which is an excellent medium for high resolution and photo-realistic image reproduction.
  • It’s a single step process for both the molding and labeling of the product. This ensures the security of the pack because it is not possible to remove or replace the label which is permanently bonded to the pack.
  • These in-mould labels are quite hygienic to be used for the food products, since they are environmentally friendly and easily recyclable.
  • It helps to give quite a different and distinct identity to your product and set it apart from rest of the product in the market during sale.
  • Since they are moisture and temperature resistant, hygienic etc. it makes them an excellent solution for plastic packaging for frozen or refrigerated products.

Applications of In Mould Labels

  • Food and beverages
  • Paint pail industry
  • Household items
  • Oil, grease and lubricant pail industry
  • Agriculture and seeds pail industry
  • Personal care products

The Print for IML materials is done using the Lombardi Range of Flexo Presses.

Lombardi flexo presses are destined for printers who are looking for high printing quality coupled with simple and fast job changeovers. These presses expand the possibilities of working on a wide gamma of materials like BOPP, PVC, PE, PET, Paper, Adhesive paper, Board, Coupled material boards etc. These are multiple facets functional presses for flexible packaging, IML’s and more, capable to handle materials from 12 microns to all the way up to carton board of 500 microns, these presses really expand the offering of a printer to various markets including labels, lami-tubes, flexible packaging, cartons etc.

Post Printing, Die cutting of IML labels can be done using off line Die cutting equipment. Varuious processes can be used for the same including

  1. A Flat bed process for Sheet printed or sheet cut IML

2. A ram punching process for Labels cut to size already but that need to be shaped.

3. A Rotary or Semi-rotary process using a specialized rotary die cutting and stacking machine

A deep understanding of materials, coatings and cutting procedures are needed and the team of dedicated application engineers at VINSAK can help the convertors shorten the learning curve.