In Mold Decoration IMD-IMF-INS

FEATURES

• In Mold Decoration IMD-IMF-INS 
  

  This technology is divided into IMR (in-mold roller or in-mold transfer), IML (in-mold label), and lMF(in-mold forming orin-mold film), also known as INS.

  IMR (in-mold roller or in-mold transfer) is to print the designed pattern on the release transferring film. During theproduction process, the transfer film must be preheated,formed, and put into an injection mold. After completion, theIMRfilm will be removed, leaving the ink and protective layer on the product surface.

  IML(In-Mold Label) is a laminated film printed with graphics or logos. During injection molding, the lML film is attachedto the product surface.Compared with the traditional labeling, finished products with lIML film integrates labels andplastic workpieces once that can have a perfect fit.

  IMF is also known as lINS which is more suitable for high-curved 3D products than lIMP and IML technology. Sagefocuses on IMF(INS) film manufacturing in the lMD industry. The processing is to pre-form the printed IMF(INS) film ina high-pressure forming machine, and then cut the formed film. The ink side should be put on the core mold and thendo the plastic injection. The IMF (INS)film is composed of hardened transparent film at the upper (the more commonmaterials are PC, PET,PMMA, and etc.), a printed pattern layer in the middle, and a plastic layer (most are used ABS) atthe bottom. The position of ink on IMF(INS) film is different from the previous two technology film, IMR, and lML it isprotected well in the middle of the IMF(INS) film.Therefore , it can ensure the excellent colorfastness and high scratch-resistance of the product. In addition, the IMF (INS) film can be integrated with electronic components. Print light-transmitting pattern on the bottom of IMF(INS) film by silkscreen, and use the color and the intensity of the light topresent rich visual effects.

• The advantages of the IMD process include:
  Good decorative effect: IMD technology can achieve high-quality decorative effect, with clear patterns, bright colors, three-dimensional sense and texture.
  Strong durability: The decorative film is closely combined with plastic products, is not easy to peel or wear, and has good durability and scratch resistance.
  Integrated molding: The IMD process injects the decorative film and plastic together, avoiding the subsequent film or spraying process, saving time and costs.
  Wide scope of application: The IMD process is suitable for various plastic products, such as mobile phone cases, electronic product cases, automobile interior parts, etc., and can achieve personalized and high-end decorative effects.
  IMD technology is widely used in electronic products, automobiles, home furnishings and other fields, providing products with unique decorative effects and value-added functions.

• In Mold Decoration Technological Process
  

  Film Preheat
  

  IMD in-mold decoration film preheating means that before using IMD in-mold decoration film for product production, the film needs to be preheated. The purpose of preheating is to make the film softer and easier to fit to ensure better decoration in the mold.

  Place the IMD in-mold decorative film in a dry environment to avoid moisture.

  Use special preheating equipment to heat the film to the appropriate temperature. The temperature selection should be determined according to the specific film material and thickness, generally between 50-80 degrees Celsius.

  Place the preheated film in the mold, ensuring that the film is in close contact with the surface of the mold.

  Use appropriate pressure and temperature to heat-press the film and product base material to fix them on the product surface.

  After waiting for the film to cool, take the product out of the mold to complete the decoration process.

  Preheating is an important step in the production process of IMD in-mold decorative film, which can improve the decorative effect and product quality. When preheating, you need to pay attention to controlling the temperature and time to avoid overheating or heating for too long to avoid damage to the film.
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• Vacuum Forming
  

  IMD in-mold decoration vacuum forming is a technology that vacuum-adsorbs and forms the IMD in-mold decoration film and the base material together. It combines the advantages of IMD in-mold decoration and vacuum forming, and can realize product decoration and molding in one molding process.

  The steps of IMD in-mold decoration vacuum forming are as follows:

  Prepare IMD in-mold decoration film and product base material. Film is usually made of PET or PC material with decorative patterns and functional coatings.

  Place the film in the mold, ensuring that the film is in close contact with the surface of the mold.

  Place the product substrate above the film at a position corresponding to the film.

  Place the mold into the vacuum forming machine, start the vacuum pump, and extract the air inside the mold to form a vacuum environment.

  In a vacuum environment, heat the mold to soften the film and tightly combine with the product base material.

  After a certain time and temperature, the film and base material are formed to form a decorative effect.

  Turn off the vacuum pump and take out the formed product.

  IMD in-mold decoration vacuum forming technology can achieve high-precision decoration effects while maintaining product strength and durability. It is widely used in mobile phones, electronic products, car interiors and other fields, adding beauty and functionality to products. When performing vacuum molding of IMD in-mold decoration, attention must be paid to controlling the temperature, vacuum degree and molding time to ensure the molding effect and product quality.

• Cut the Unnecessary Portion of the Film
  

  During the IMD in-mold decoration process, it is sometimes necessary to cut off unnecessary parts of the film to obtain the desired decorative effect. Here are the steps for cutting out unwanted parts of your film:

  Prepare IMD in-mold decoration film and corresponding tools. The tool can be scissors, a knife or a laser cutter, depending on the film material and shape.

  Place the IMD in-mold decorative film on a flat workbench, making sure there are no obvious wrinkles or damage on the surface of the film.

  Mark the cutting line or cutting area on the film according to the part that needs to be cut. You can use a ruler or the marked lines on the mold to assist.

  Using a suitable tool, cut along the marked line or cut area. If using scissors, make sure the tips of the scissors are in close contact with the film for a more accurate cut line.

  Pay attention to controlling the force and angle of shearing to avoid damaging the film or producing uneven edges.

  After finishing cutting, check whether the edges of the film are flat and neat. Use sandpaper or an edging tool to trim if necessary.

  Cutting off unnecessary parts of the film is an important step in the IMD in-mold decoration process, which can ensure the decorative effect and quality of the final product. When cutting, you need to pay attention to safe operations to avoid damage to the film and yourself.
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• Insert the Film into the Mold
  

  In the IMD in-mold decoration process, placing the film into the mold is a critical step. Here are the general steps for placing the film into the mold:

  Prepare IMD in-mold decorative film and corresponding mold. The film is usually made of PET or PC material with decorative patterns and functional coatings. The mold can be made of metal or plastic with the desired product shape and structure.

  Place the IMD in-mold decorative film on the bottom of the mold, ensuring that the film is tightly attached to the mold surface. Special clamps or tools can be used to assist in holding the membrane in place.

  If necessary, alignment and adjustment can be performed on the film to ensure accurate correspondence between the decorative pattern and product structure.

  Place the upper half of the mold above the film, corresponding to the bottom mold.

  Using appropriate pressure and temperature, merge the upper and lower parts of the mold to secure the film in the mold.

  Ensure the sealing and stability of the mold to prevent the film from shifting or deforming.

  According to the specific process requirements, perform operations such as hot pressing or vacuum adsorption to tightly combine the film with the product base material.

  After a certain time and temperature, the film and base material are decorated and formed.

  Putting the film into the mold is a key step in the IMD in-mold decoration process. It is necessary to pay attention to controlling the pressure, temperature and time to ensure the decoration effect and product quality. During operation, handle the film carefully to avoid scratches or damage.

  
  

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• Clamp the Molds for Plastic Injection
  

  IMD in-mold decoration clamping injection molding is a technology that combines IMD in-mold decoration film with injection molding. It combines the two steps of decoration and molding into one, and can realize product decoration and molding in one injection molding process.

  The following are the general steps for IMD in-mold decorative clamping injection molding:

  Prepare IMD in-mold decorative film, injection molding machine and corresponding mold. Film is usually made of PET or PC material with decorative patterns and functional coatings. The mold can be made of metal or plastic with the desired product shape and structure.

  Place the IMD in-mold decorative film on one side of the mold, ensuring that the film is tightly attached to the mold surface. Special clamps or tools can be used to assist in holding the film in place.

  Place the mold into the injection molding machine, ensuring the position and stability of the mold.

  Start the injection molding machine and inject the molten plastic material into the mold. The injection molding machine heats the molten plastic material and injects it into the mold, where it is tightly combined with the film.

  During the injection molding process, the film is injection molded together with the plastic material to form the decoration and product structure.

  After injection molding is completed, wait for the plastic material to cool and solidify. Depending on the specific injection molding material and process requirements, a certain cooling time may be required.

  Open the mold and take out the injection molded product. At this time, the decorative effect of IMD in-mold decoration has been completed on the product.

  IMD in-mold decoration clamping injection molding technology can realize an efficient and integrated decoration and molding process, improving production efficiency and product quality. When performing IMD in-mold decoration clamping injection molding, attention needs to be paid to controlling the injection temperature, pressure and time to ensure the stability of the injection molding process and the quality of the product.

• Finish
  

  When the IMD in-mold decoration is complete, the following steps to process and inspect the final product:

  Take out the mold: Open the mold and take out the decorated product from the mold. Be careful to remove it gently to avoid damaging the product or decorative film.

  Check the decorative effect: Carefully check the decorative effect of the product to ensure that the decorative film is tightly combined with the product base material and there is no blistering, falling off or damage.

  Cleaning and finishing: If necessary, use a soft cloth or detergent to gently wipe the surface of the product to remove dust or stains. At the same time, you can use trimming tools or sandpaper to trim the edges of the product to make it smoother and neater.

  Functional testing: Carry out functional testing of the product to ensure that the decoration process does not affect the normal use of the product. For example, for a mobile phone case, you can test the sensitivity and tactile feel of the keys.

  Packaging and quality inspection: Packaging and quality inspection are carried out according to product requirements. Ensure that the product’s packaging is intact and conduct quality checks to ensure that the product meets relevant standards and requirements.
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• There are several reasons to choose AnsixTech for IMD, INS processes
  

  Choosing AnsixTech for IMD (In-Mold Decoration) and INS (In-Mold Electronics) processes is a good choice. AnsixTech is a company focusing on IMD and INS technology with rich experience and expertise.

  The IMD process is a technology that directly embeds decorative patterns or images on the surface of injection molded parts. By combining the decorative film with the plastic material during the injection molding process, a high-quality decorative effect is achieved. This process provides a durable finish that prevents the decorative layer from peeling or wearing off, and allows for a variety of color and pattern options.

  The INS process is further developed on the basis of IMD. It embeds electronic components (such as touch sensors, LED lights, etc.) directly into injection molded parts, achieving the integration of decoration and function. INS technology can achieve more complex functions and interactivity, providing a higher level of user experience.

  When you choose AnsixTech for IMD and INS processes, you can enjoy the following advantages:

  Professional technology: AnsixTech has rich experience in IMD and INS technology and can provide professional solutions and technical support.

  High-quality decorative effects: Through the IMD process, high-quality decorative effects can be achieved, including a variety of color and pattern choices.

  Integrated function: Through the INS process, electronic components can be directly embedded into injection molded parts to achieve integration of decoration and function.

  User experience improvement: INS technology can achieve more complex functions and interactivity, providing a higher level of user experience.

  Customized solutions: AnsixTech can provide customized solutions according to customer needs to meet the requirements of different products.

  Choosing AnsixTech for IMD and INS processes can provide professional technical support and high-quality decorative effects, and at the same time achieve the integration of decoration and functions to enhance user experience.

  If you have any questions about products in the plastic molding and mold field, please send us a message(Email: info@ansixtech.com ) at any time and our team will reply to you within 12 hours.