IN-MOLD DECORATION

Gives you the freedom to design elaborate, colorful graphics and integrate them with your product.

IMD is resin-moulding system that has been rapidly developing recently. At Arion Technology, through years of research and development, we have perfected a method that is effective, reliable and economical.

You can decorate your components with detailed images, by integrating them during the production phase. In-Mold Decoration (IMD) is a technique that can, if performed correctly, give your products long-lasting, vibrant graphics, without the need for adhesives or post-production printing.

For years, Arion Technology have researched and experimented with different materials and processes, to refine our IMD technique. As a result, we can now offer a reliable, cost-effective service at our sites throughout the world. Our approach streamlines your production process and reduces operational costs, while delivering outstanding image quality.

How In-Mold Decoration (IMD) Works

In-mould decoration is a difficult technique to master, but a simple one to understand. The illustration below shows how decorated finishes can be bonded on to plastic components during production.

A pre-printed label or decorated film is inserted into the open mould (1), and held in place with vacuum ports, an electrostatic charge, or some alternative method (2). The mould is then closed, and plastic resin is injected (3). This permanently bonds the decoration to the plastic component. The mould then opens to release the component (4). A new pre-printed label or decorated film is inserted, ready for the next component to be created. In this illustration, the labels are printed on a reel-to-reel film, so the next label is put in place by winding the film downwards.

Advantages of In-Mold Decoration (IMD)

In-Mold Decorating offers design flexibility and productivity advantages over traditional post-molding decorating techniques. Durable graphics are integrated into plastic components using multiple colors. Since the part graphics are encapsulated in resin, the graphics cannot be removed without destroying the part. Graphics will not fade and remain vibrant. No secondary operation is required after molding. The part is complete. Graphics are updated by modifying the printed overlay. The mold does not need to be modified.

IMD Compared to Pad Printing

More economical for multiple colors
Second surface graphics
Greater ink opacity
Increased design options

IMD Compared to Pressure Sensitive Labels

Eliminates secondary operations
Ability to apply labels on the plastic parts
Creates an integrated look
More durable and tamper-proof

IMD Compared to Direct Printing

Eliminates secondary operations
More durable and tamper-proof
Graphics can extend around a radius
Enhanced 3D effects and surface finishes

Applications of In-Mold Decoration (IMD)

The major application areas of In Mould Decorationsinclude Automobile a/c facia, toy making industry, FMCG sector plastic components, Handle bar Switches for two wheeler and so on. It can be incorporated in many types of moulded components where decoration or identification is required.