What does IML mean?
It stands for In-Mold Labeling, which literally means labeling within the mold.
In this process, the label is not applied afterward to the container, but directly during molding.
How is it made?
It appears as a thin plastic film, only a few microns thick, on which the graphic is printed in high definition.
At first glance, it looks like a simple label — but it’s much more than that.
How does the process work?
The labels, precisely dimensioned and shaped to fit the container, are automatically inserted into the mold by robots just moments before it closes.
When molten plastic is injected under pressure, it wraps around the label, making it an integral part of the container walls.
This is not a traditional labeling process — no glue is used, and no additional steps are required after molding.
When should the technology be used?
- When very high productivity is required, as the container comes out of the mold already finished, with extremely fast molding cycles thanks to full automation.
- When high-quality, precise images and text are needed.
- When you want a durable, wear-resistant label that’s impossible to peel off — even by a child’s fingernail!
Eco-friendly
IML labels are made of the same material as the containers, simplifying domestic recycling and making waste management and product recovery easier and more cost-effective.
The labeling process uses no harmful adhesives, avoiding pollutants dangerous to people and the environment.
All materials used are 100% recyclable.
Would you like to see one of our IML lines in action?
We’ve been doing this for years, yet we still find it fascinating to watch a production line in motion.
There’s something magical, hypnotic, and musical about it — and we’ve decided to share it with you...
Take a look at the video.