Behind the label

IML Insights

On this page, we provide insights into the most diverse areas of IML technologies and answer general questions about this labeling process.

You will thus receive information about our daily work and learn everything you need to know about the use of our IML solutions.

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What is IML?

IML is a method to decorate plastic packaging. The term “in mould labelling” is directly derived from the technique: a preprinted polypropylene (PP) label is placed in a mould. This mould has the shape of the end product, e.g. the shape of a butter tub.

Then the molten PP is added to the mould. It fuses with the label, and while curing, takes the shape of the mould. Result: label and packaging become one.

In mould labelling can be done in the following production processes:

  • Injection moulding
  • Blow moulding
  • Thermoforming

In mould labelling offers several major advantages:

Maximum print quality
The offset printing technique ensures high-resolution images. Besides, you can decorate all the sides of a container with one single label.

Strong and hygienic
In mould labels resist humidity and big changes in temperature: the best solution to decorate plastic containers for frozen and refrigerated products! In mould labels are also scratch resistant, cannot crack and are not susceptible to wrinkles.

Shorter production time and lower production costs
During the in mould labeling process containers are produced and decorated in one single step. Storage of blank containers becomes unnecessary, storage and transport costs belong to the past.

Environmentally-friendly
In mould labelling saves the environment: the packaging and the label consist of the same material and can therefore be fully recycled.

Wide range of look & feel options
The same plastic packaging product can be decorated with a wide range of different materials, inks an lacquers. This allows you to differentiate your product on the shelf.

Quick design changeovers
It only takes a shift from one label design to another on your IML automation to make a quick changeover. There is almost no production loss during the start-up of a new design.

How much opening stroke is needed for IML?


Required opening stroke = 3 x product height + 150 mm

Which product shapes can be decorated with IML? Or how much curve is possible?

Why have some IML labels a hole in the center?


Outside gated products with a base label require a hole in the base label through which the plastic can be injected.