Are you seeking a cutting-edge labelling solution to enhance your label's visual appeal? In-Mold labels (IML) may be your answer. In the ever-evolving realm of product branding and packaging, the advanced technology of IML offers a significant boost to your product's aesthetics and brand presence.
IML utilizes advanced packaging technology to decorate plastic products during the manufacturing process. Unlike traditional labels, which are applied post-production, an IML is inserted into the product's mold, either prior to or during the formation of the container. The result is a label that seamlessly integrates with your product.
In Kenya and the surrounding region, you’ll often find IML on products within the:
- Food segment (margarine, ice cream, yoghurt)
- Home care segment (dishwashing paste)
- Industrial sector (paint cans, chairs)
Let’s take a look at some of the main advantages of IML and why the method has become a transformative trend within the packaging and labelling industry:
1. Aesthetics that stand out
Merging the label with the product mold creates an aesthetically pleasing, premium product presentation. IML enables unique design possibilities and allows you to play with vibrant colours, intricate design options, and photo-realistic imagery. These advantages are not always feasible when using self-adhesive labels.
2. Made to last
In-Mold Labels are known for their robust nature and resistance to:
- scratches
- moisture
- other environmental factors
Their durability contributes to the longevity of your brand's visual identity on the product.
3. Environmental and Cost-Efficient Attributes
With IML, you’ll be able to get one step closer to your sustainability goals. A large part of the IML technology involves using eco-friendly materials that can be recycled together to reduce the environmental impact. Used plastic cans, jars, or bottles can be recycled without removing the label.
IML also streamlines the production process because it only requires one operation of label application, consequently lowering waste and reducing overall expenses.
Read more: Balancing material and energy consumption in sustainable manufacturing.
Types of applications
In-Mold labels can be seamlessly integrated into products, provided that the manufacturing plants possess the necessary infrastructure for in-mold labelling. IML can be applied in two different ways:
Injection molding
Injection molding forces molten plastic into a closed mold cavity under high pressure, creating precisely shaped and complex parts. This method heats plastic granules before injecting them into the mold, where the plastic cools and adopts the mold's shape.
This application technique is renowned for its high precision and enables the use of a wide range of materials. Integrating pre-printed IML into the mold cavity results in durable, high-quality, and tamper-proof labels.
Blow molding
Blow molding shapes plastic by heating and inflating a tube (parison) inside a closed mold cavity. Air is blown to expand the mold's shape before the plastic cools down and hardens.
This is a more cost-effective and faster application technique than injection molding, primarily because it’s used for simpler shapes and is limited to thin-walled parts. Using blow molding for IML creates seamless and durable labels.
Read more: How much should your labels be able to endure?
In-Mold Labels are not just a trend; they represent a paradigm shift in packaging aesthetics and sustainability. This is why we continue to champion this transformative technology and strive to enter new product lines here at Skanem Africa.
As a front-runner in the labelling and packaging industry, we are committed to innovation and quality for all our labels. We can help you create aesthetically pleasing labels that make your products stand out in stores. Reach out to our team of labelling experts and get started with your IML journey.
