In-mould labelling uses materials like plastic or paper to manufacture containers through blow-moulding, thermoforming methods, or injection-moulding. The label is a crucial component of the finished item, subsequently provided as a ready-to-decorate item. Many of us, including some business owners, aren't aware of what an in-mould machine is and its benefits and applications. If you are on the same page, this blog will help you learn the principles of in-mould labelling. Let's read more about in-mold labelling to get a clear idea of its benefits and applications.
- History - Owens-Illinois and Procter & Gamble first created the technique to provide pre-labelled bottles that could be filled on the product filling line. It was initially used on the shampoo bottles for Head & Shoulders. Although innovations employing injection moulding or thermoforming with reel-fed systems have boosted the efficiency of the labelling process, in-mould labelling (IML) was first developed for blow moulding.
- Procedure - In the original design, a heat seal layer is coated on the label's backside before a substrate is added, and heat-resistant ink is printed. Then, the experts use a heat-resistant lacquer coating. Combining the moulding and usage of decorating machines reduces overall cost but may lengthen the manufacturing process. This procedure does away with the requirement to flame the bottles before labelling them to have good adherence.
- Technique - The in-mould labelling gets processed in several ways, using vacuum, compressed air, and static electricity.
When a label transfers to the moulding machine, electrostatic charging electrodes charge it so that when the label is applied to the tool and released by the labelling robot, it will wrap itself around it. Most label insertion robot systems use modern presses with quick clamping systems and do not require special moulding equipment.
The professionals manufacture labels with paper or another material like plastic resembling moulded items. The label material is polypropylene or polystyrene with a thickness ranging from 15 to 40 micrometres. Better conformity to small-radius curves on a product benefits the cavitated film. Products are decorated with laminated film for enhanced wear resistance. In this kind of film, the second layer of film with a thickness of 30 or 40 micrometres protects the printed surface. Products with this label may include picnic tableware or internal automobile parts.
Advantages of In-Mould Labelling
1. Saves Time and Money
Most business owners choose MIL services because it helps to save money and time. It enables them to use the same in other business aspects. The IML technology eliminates a step because the printed label and container get moulded together directly. As a manufacturer, this saves a tonne of time. The fact that this procedure wastes less raw material and doesn't use as much material as necessary is an additional benefit. When the container gets moulded, labour and transportation costs reduce because there is a functional reduction of one step.
2. Environmental-Friendly
As industrialists are becoming more aware of adopting environmental-friendly aspects, business owners prefer the same. MIL is an environment-friendly procedure; it's the second and one of the most significant advantages. Because the packaging and label are made of the same material and share similar qualities, features, and characteristics, they are simple to recycle. The production process also promotes a healthy environment by utilising fewer resources and raw materials.
3. Hygienic
In-mould labels are resistant to weather and time. Due to its capacity to survive severe weather, its durability is admirable. The label, print, and colours are unaffected by moisture or high heat. It implies that you can use them for refrigeration without a doubt. Additionally, they are wrinkle-free, non-crackable, and scratch-resistant. It makes brands choose this procedure because they want their logo and branding to last longer on the containers.
4. Machinability
IML labels feature exceptional antistatic qualities that decrease the static charge between the label and the machine, extending the machine's life and making it more adaptable to various machines.
Applications of In-Mould Labelling
Over the past few decades, in-mould labels and decorating machines have been trending, and today we see a wide range of industries actively expressing interest in this technology, including the food, beverage, cosmetics, healthcare, pharmaceutical, and even automotive sectors. It has many uses, some of which include the following:
- Supplements and nutraceuticals
- Containers for butter, margarine, and other spreads
- Tubs for ice cream
- Cosmetics
- Tubs of yoghurt
- Tobacco
- Pails of paint
- Household and gardening goods
- Jars of candy
Contact a Professional In-Mould Labelling Company
Hiring a professional IML company help you get customised in-mould labels that will not only adhere to all the advantages mentioned above but also help you choose the best options per your requirement. So, if you are looking forward to getting IML services, contact a professional who follows:
- Consulting
- Recommending
- Finalising services
- Executing work
- Delivering on time