IMD IN-MOLD DECORATION

IMD is a component printing in the injection mold.

A printed transfer film is fed through the tool using film feed devices attached to the tool or the injection molding machine. The film is precisely positioned in each cycle using markers in the print and sensors installed in the tool. Exact positioning of individual images is thus possible.

A clamping frame or clamping segments fix the film in the separation area. The film is then sucked into the cavity using a vacuum.

In order to avoid spangles, an extremely precise tool design is required. This is the only way to harmonize the necessary tool support and exact film gap.

With the inmold decoration, not only single-image prints can be transferred, but also UV-curing scratch protection coatings.

In conjunction with polyurethane (PUR RIM), improved adhesion among the components can be achieved. A depth effect is also possible.

At IMD, too, a combination with injection compression molding or cascade injection with a needle valve system controlled by an electric motor (such as FlexFlow or

E-Synflow) to avoid leaching.

Here are links to videos of the Big Sice Cover Lens from Continental. This is one of the largest and most three-dimensional IMD components that have been realized so far.

videos 1
videos 2

Even larger parts are currently being implemented.

We have special clamping systems and also in the Tool integrated controls developed in-house.

In this way, we ensure easy programming of the system integrated in the tool using a tablet and Bluetooth with control of the vacuum circuits and film feed device. This is how we create a tool that becomes a machine.