There are a number of key drivers that have accelerated the adoption of IML lids over the past decade. Although IML technology had been available for many years, it was difficult to compete with the very efficient and low cost production systems for traditional round printed lids.
Early IML technology was complex, production systems were costly and difficult to control, and the resultant piece part costs were too high to displace traditional molding and printing systems. However, with the advent of precise automation, digitalization and servo controls, the production efficiencies have been vastly improved and piece part costs have become competitive.
Careful consideration must be made to the new lid design and the geometry and style of the label(s) /
decoration. Choosing the optimal gate position on the part must not only fulfil the need to
optimize filling, but must also consider flow of the molten resin into and across the label. Technical requirements may be different depending on the style of the lid and label.
IN MOLD LABELING (IML) SOLUTIONS: