What is IML?

IML: In-Molding-Label is an in-mold labeling, also known as IMF (In-Molding-Foil).

It is a process of first printing a pattern on a sheet-like transparent film, then performing 3D molding and cutting off the excess portion, and finally applying the cut 3D Label to the injection mold cavity to obtain a finished product by injection molding.

The IML finished product consists of three parts from the outside to the inside: diaphragm, ink, plastic;

The generalized IMD (In-Molding-Decoration) includes two processes of IML and narrow IMD;

Among them, IML is also called IMF (In-Molding-Foil); narrowly defined IMD is also called IMR (In-Molding-Roll).

The main differences between the two processes are: 1. The outermost layer of IML is the diaphragm and the outermost layer of IMD is the ink, 2. IML is monolithic printing - forming - cutting - injection molding, and IMD is the coil printing - coil injection molding .

2IML process principle

The IML process consists of three layers of film, ink and plastic:

The film mainly has three types of PCPETPMMA.

The ink layer is patterned and connected to the film and plastic, and the pattern can be changed.

IML production process

The basic production processes of IML are as follows:

4 IML related design specifications

4.1 Stretch Height and Film Selection

4.2 Thickness (T average, T local, δT)

4.3 edging and whitening

Overall P/L edge (above): The edge of the IML is exposed, allowing the sheet to have a whiteness of less than 0.1 mm, ie the exposed width of the injection material (or R0.1 at the edge);

Hole edge wrapping (pictured above): generally to (2/3-1)R, minimum R0.2mm; if required to exceed R, the draft angle is 5° minimum 3° and depth is less than 0.3mm ( PC coating exceeds R requires 3-5° draft, and PL surface sinks 0.4mm as positioning);

4.4 Draft angle:

The draft angle requirements are as follows: