In-Mold Labeling Plastic Film

BACK

Understand in-mold label production

Gravure printing labels

IML factory 1
IML factory 2
IML factory 3
IML factory 4
IML factory 5

Design: label design according to the final product shape and mold structure, consideringdeformation, bleeding, positioning marks, etc.

Plate making: make gravure printing plate rollers (copper or electro-engraved).

Base material: use special in-mold label material (BOPP film), which requires high temperatureresistance, good compatibility with injection molding plastic, dimensional stability and good printingadaptability.

Printing: On a gravure press, a high-temperature resistant solvent-based or oil-based ink is usedto print the pattern onto the label substrate. Usually, multiple layers are required (CMYK + specialcolor + white ink).

Post-press processing: including coating oil (protective ink, increase gloss/tonic effect, improvescratch resistance), film coating, etc.

Cutting, stretching and embossing: the printed roll material is molded into a single label shapeaccording to product requirements.

Main advantages of in mold labeling

Main advantages of in mold labeling

1. Excellent printing effect: Gravure printing provides high quality images: colors are extremely bright, saturated and stable; ink layer is thick and textured; gradient and layer transition is natural and delicate; suitable for large area solid and fine graphic.
2. Excellent production efficiency: The gravure printing itself is very fast, suitable for ultra-long plate printing; in-mold labeling integrates the labeling process into injection molding, one-step molding and decoration, high degree of automation, significantly improve the overall production efficiency.
3. Excellent durability and resistance: The label is integrated with the product, without risks of edge lifting, bubbling or falling off. The surface is smooth and wear-resistant, scratch-resistant, chemical corrosion-resistant (such as detergent, oil), waterproof and moisture-proof.
4. High texture and design freedom: can simulate metal, leather, wood grain and other special effects; combined with the thick ink layer of gravure printing and special inks (such as metal inks, pearlescent inks), can achieve rich visual and tactile effects.
5. Environmental protection and safety: It eliminates the glue used in traditional labeling and its potential VOC emissions. The label material is usually the same as the bottle body material (PP) to facilitate overall recycling (single material). The label is firm and not easy to be torn off and eaten (safe for children).
6.Anti-counterfeiting: the process of gravure printing itself is complex, the cost of plate making is high, combined with the non-detachable label in the mold, it has a certain anti-counterfeiting function.

Typical application areas

In-mold gravure printing stands as the gold standard for surface decoration in premium plastic products. This technology delivers labels with exceptional visual impact through gravure printing,then seamlessly integrates them into product surfaces via in-mold labeling. The result is a premium product combining exquisite aesthetics, superior durability, high production efficiency, and eco friendliness. While requiring significant upfront investment and being suitable for mass production, its comprehensive benefits have established it as a key solution in food packaging, daily chemical products, industrial packaging, and related fields.

Tea packaging
Food packaging
IML shampoo bottle
IML paint bucket

Matte transparent label:

  1. Matte transparent label
  2. Bright light transparent label
  3. Tangerine label
  4. Whitened film label
  5. Bright white film label

Summary

Packaging integrates natural wisdom into modern industry, preserving quality through resilience and leading longevity through environmental stewardship. We are not merely a packaging supplier, but your trusted partner in sustainable development.