In-Mold Labeling Services

Frigate’s In-Mold Labeling (IML) technology embeds labels directly into molded components. We offer enhanced durability, precise alignment, and resistance to environmental factors.

Our Clients

Advantages of In-Mold Labeling (IML) Services

Enhanced Environmental Resistance

IML is excellently resistant to chemicals, UV rays, and moisture, making it ideal for harsh industrial environments.

Reduced Waste

The IML process minimizes scrap and excess material by integrating labeling during molding, leading to cleaner production.

Consistency and Accuracy

IML ensures uniform label placement and alignment across high-volume production runs, improving quality control and reducing errors.

Better Branding Opportunities

The technology enables the integration of intricate logos, barcodes, and QR codes, offering additional space for branding without compromising design.

Enhance Product Durability with Custom In-Mold Labeling (IML) Solutions

Custom In-Mold Labeling (IML) integrates labels directly into molded parts, improving durability and reducing production costs. This process eliminates separate labeling steps, providing a seamless, high-quality finish that enhances appearance and longevity. IML ensures consistent, wear-resistant labels that withstand harsh conditions while offering design flexibility. Optimize your manufacturing process with IML for efficient, durable, and visually appealing products.

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Our In-Mold Labeling (IML) Process

Label Preparation

The IML process begins with the creation of the label, typically made from a durable material such as polypropylene or PET. The label is printed with high-quality graphics and designs.

Mold Setup

The pre-printed label is placed inside the mold cavity before the injection molding process. It is carefully aligned to ensure correct placement on the molded part.

Injection Molding

The mold is closed, and molten plastic is injected into the mold cavity, enveloping the label. The high temperature and pressure cause the plastic to bond with the label material.

Cooling and Solidification

As the plastic cools and solidifies, the label becomes fused with the molded part, creating a permanent bond. This ensures the label is fully integrated and durable.

Mold Opening and Ejection

The mold is opened once the part has cooled and the finished product is ejected. The label is seamlessly incorporated into the molded component.

Quality Control

The final product undergoes inspection to ensure the label is correctly placed, securely bonded, and free from defects. This ensures high-quality, consistent results for every unit produced.

In-Mold Labeling (IML) Materials

In-mold labeling (IML) is a highly efficient way to integrate labels into molded parts. The right choice of material ensures durability, clarity, and superior adhesion for optimal performance.

Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is a common choice for IML due to its excellent chemical resistance, high strength, and durability. It offers great clarity and can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for packaging, automotive, and consumer goods.

Polyethylene (PE)

Polyethylene is another versatile material for IML. It is known for its flexibility and impact resistance. It is widely used in applications where the label needs to endure physical stress and exposure to environmental elements.

Acrylic (PMMA)

Acrylic provides exceptional optical clarity, making it a preferred material for applications requiring high visual appeal. It is resistant to UV degradation and scratches, making it ideal for outdoor or exposed products.

Polyester (PET)

Polyester is used in IML for its excellent strength, moisture resistance, and high thermal stability. It is commonly chosen for products that require a high-quality finish and strong adhesive properties.

Polystyrene (PS)

Polystyrene is a cost-effective option for IML applications. It is typically used in food containers and other packaging products. It offers good dimensional stability but is more prone to breakage than other materials.

Bio-based Plastics

Bio-based plastics like PLA (Polylactic Acid) are becoming more popular in IML, especially for eco-friendly applications. These materials are renewable and compostable and offer a sustainable solution for industries focused on reducing their environmental impact.

Improve Label Durability and Prevent Adhesion Failures

Adhesives can fail over time due to wear, chemicals, or heat in traditional labeling. Frigate’s In-Mold Labeling (IML) bonds the label directly into the molded part during the injection molding. The molten plastic encapsulates the label, forming a permanent bond. This method increases resistance to peeling, fading, and environmental damage, ensuring long-term durability and consistent performance in harsh conditions.

Compliance for In-Mold Labeling Services

In-Mold Labeling (IML) is a process where labels are applied to products during the injection molding phase, fusing the label to the part. The labels are made from materials that can withstand high molding temperatures. IML enhances product durability, improves branding, and eliminates the need for post-molding labeling. It is essential for achieving consistent, high-quality parts, especially in industries like automotive, packaging, and consumer goods. Frigate focuses on precision, ensuring proper label adhesion, durability, and resistance to environmental factors like UV exposure and moisture.

FDA 21 CFR 177.1520

Regulates the use of food-safe materials, ensuring no migration of harmful substances in food-contact packaging.

ISO 9001:2015

Validates that manufacturing processes meet stringent quality management standards, improving repeatability and product reliability.

RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU:

Ensures materials used in IML are free from hazardous substances such as lead, cadmium, and mercury, protecting consumer health.

UL 94

Specifies fire safety requirements for materials, ensuring components used in electrical or automotive applications are flame-resistant.

EN 13430:2004

Mandates that packaging materials are recyclable and meet European sustainability standards, reducing environmental impact.

OSHA 1910.1200

Requires safety data sheets for handling hazardous materials used in the IML process, ensuring workplace safety and compliance.

Tolerance for In-Mold Labeling Services

Label Registration to Part

± 0.05 mm

Precise alignment between label graphics and molded part features for accuracy.

Injection Pressure Tolerance

± 0.5 MPa

Ensures consistent molding pressure during injection to avoid label distortion.

Label Shrinkage

≤ 0.1%

Controls the shrinkage of the label material to prevent misalignment.

Temperature Tolerance

± 2°C

Ensures molding temperature stays within optimal range to avoid label deformation.

Injection Speed

± 1%

Tolerance in the injection speed during molding to avoid inconsistent label adhesion.

Label Distortion (Thermal Warping)

≤ 0.15 mm

Limits label warping due to thermal expansion during the molding cycle.

Mold Surface Roughness

Ra ≤ 0.4 µm

Ensures smooth mold surfaces to avoid label imperfections and ensure proper adhesion.

Label Thickness Uniformity

± 0.02 mm

Ensures consistent thickness of the label across the entire surface for uniform adhesion.

Label Material Flow Rate

± 5%

Ensures uniform flow of the label material to prevent voids or uneven coverage.

Bond Strength (Adhesion Force)

≥ 4 N/cm²

Measures the force required to peel the label from the molded part, ensuring high durability.

Label Curing Time

± 2 seconds

Ensures consistent label curing time to achieve optimal bonding strength and label integrity.

Label Print Alignment (X-Y Axis)

± 0.05 mm

Precision of the label printing alignment on both horizontal and vertical axes.

Ink Adhesion

≥ 95% adhesion after molding

Ensures that printed ink on the label adheres properly to avoid fading or smearing during molding.

Humidity Sensitivity

± 3% RH

Controls relative humidity in the molding environment to ensure proper label adhesion and print quality.

Label Edge Curling

≤ 0.2 mm

Minimizes curling at the edges of the label after molding to maintain shape and adhesion.

Quality Testing Standards for In-Mold Labeling Services

Label Morphology

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)

Analyzes the surface structure and material composition of the label to assess its uniformity and bonding potential.

Adhesive Layer Consistency

X-Ray Microtomography (Micro-CT)

Examines the uniformity and integrity of the adhesive layer between the label and molded part at high resolution.

Thermal Expansion

Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA)

Measures the label’s coefficient of thermal expansion to ensure it matches the mold material's behavior during cooling.

Mold Release Efficiency

Contact Angle Measurement

Assesses the efficiency of mold release agents on both the part surface and label to avoid adhesion failures.

Tensile Strength of Label Material

Tensile Test (ASTM D638)

Evaluates the tensile strength of the label material to ensure it can withstand stress during molding without rupture.

Label Interface Shear Strength

Shear Adhesion Test (ASTM D1002)

Tests the force required to shear the bond between the label and molded part, indicating the strength of the bond.

Warping Resistance

Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)

Measures the ability of the label to resist distortion or warping under thermal and mechanical stresses during molding.

Label Shrinkage Post-Molding

Laser Scanning or Caliper Measurement

Measures dimensional changes in the label after molding to ensure that shrinkage stays within acceptable limits.

Surface Energy of Molded Part

Contact Angle or Dynamic Wetting Test

Determines the surface energy of the molded part to assess its ability to properly bond with the label.

Label Flowability

Rheological Testing (Viscosity Measurement)

Evaluates the flow behavior of the label material under molding conditions, ensuring uniform distribution during injection.

Label Material Hardness

Shore Durometer (Shore A or D)

Measures the hardness of the label material to ensure proper durability and resistance to abrasion or impact.

Solvent Resistance of Ink

Solvent Rub Test (ASTM D4752)

Assesses the resistance of printed labels to common solvents, ensuring that printed information remains intact.

Bond Failure Mode

Fracture Surface Analysis (SEM or Optical Microscopy)

Analyzes failure points during bond testing to determine if failure occurs at the label, adhesive, or molded part interface.

Mold Surface Temperature Profile

Infrared Thermography

Monitors the temperature distribution across the mold surface to ensure uniform label adhesion and minimize defects.

Label Orientation Stability

Rotational Shear Test

Measures the label’s resistance to rotation or misalignment during the molding process to ensure proper orientation.

Improving Medical and Healthcare Components with In-Mold Labeling (IML)

Label durability and hygiene are crucial in medical component manufacturing. Frigate’s In-Mold Labeling (IML) ensures permanent label bonding during molding. This process eliminates adhesives, reducing contamination risks. IML also provides precise labeling with complex graphics and barcodes. It meets stringent medical industry standards for durability and clarity. Frigate’s IML solution enhances production efficiency and compliance in medical component manufacturing.

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Industries We Serve

What You Get

Reduce Production Time and Eliminate Additional Steps

Traditional labeling involves multiple steps, including molding, adhesive application, and curing. Frigate’s IML combines labeling and molding in a single step. The label is inserted into the mold cavity before the injection of molten plastic. This process reduces production time and eliminates the need for adhesives or secondary handling. The result is a faster, more cost-efficient manufacturing process with fewer opportunities for defects.

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What Our Customers Say about Frigate

I would strongly recommend Frigate to anyone who wants to do Rapid Prototyping, and 3D Printing and take their ideas to manufacturing. One firm doing all kinds of Product Development!

Thank you so much for your great support so far. Overall, the sheet metal work of the Plotbot Pro was done in an awesome way.Special Mention: The powder coat looks cooler!

The next disruption is happening in Prototyping & Manufacturing on-demand and Frigate is leading the way!I personally believe the Frigate's way of IIOT enabled cloud platform with Al.

I am absolutely happy to work with supplier like Frigate who were quite proactive & result oriented . Frigate has high willingness team who has strong know how & their passion towards the products & process were absolutely thrilling.

Working with Frigate has been great. Their proactive, results-driven approach and expertise shine through in every project. It's been a pleasure collaborating with them.

Having Doubts? Our FAQ

Check all our Frequently Asked Question

How does In-Mold Labeling (IML) ensure superior adhesion to complex geometries?

IML achieves superior adhesion by using high-temperature injection molding that fuses the label with the part’s surface, even on intricate or complex geometries, ensuring a permanent bond.

What are the limitations of IML regarding material compatibility?

IML works best with thermoplastic materials like polypropylene, polyethylene, and PET. However, due to differences in melting temperatures and molding behavior, it may not be suitable for certain thermosetting plastics.

How does In-Mold Labeling (IML) optimize the part’s structural integrity?

By integrating the label during molding, IML eliminates the need for post-labeling adhesives, preserving the part’s structural integrity and enhancing mechanical strength without compromising design.

What impact does In-Mold Labeling (IML) have on thermal stability and resistance?

IML provides enhanced thermal stability and resistance, as the labels are chemically bonded with the molded part. This results in improved performance in high-temperature applications like automotive or industrial environments.

Can IML be used with multi-material parts or co-injection molded components?

Yes, IML can be used with co-injection-molded components, enabling the integration of labels onto multi-material parts while maintaining the distinct properties of each material and improving functional performance.

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LOCATIONS

Global Sales Office

818, Preakness lane, Coppell, Texas, USA – 75019

Registered Office

23, 6th West Street, Balaji Nagar, Kattur, Pappakuruchi, Tiruchirappalli-620019, Tamil Nadu, India.

Operations Office

9/1, Poonthottam Nagar, Ramanandha Nagar, Saravanampatti, Coimbatore-641035, Tamil Nadu, India. ㅤ