What is IML?
In-mould labelling is the use of paper or plastic labels during the manufacturing of containers by blow moulding, injection moulding, or thermoforming processes. The label serves as an integral part of the final product, which is then delivered as a pre-decorated item. Combining the decoration process with the moulding process cuts the total cost, but can increase the manufacturing time.
Material for the part is fed into a heated barrel, mixed and forced into a mould cavity, where it cools and hardens to the configuration of the cavity.