1. Matt Harp Andy Lesser Chris Sandison
In-Mold Decorating
Matt Harp
Andy Lesser
Chris Sandison

2. Objective
To explain the process of in-mold decorating

3. Outline Background & Theory Applications Alternate Methods
Equipment/Process
Advantages/Disadvantages
Conclusion

4. Background & Theory Introduced in the 1980’s New methods needed
Complex shapes
Secondary operations
Durability
Time
Cost

5. Applications Common Areas of Use Appliance panels Automotive parts
Computer parts
Telecommunication devices

6. Alternate Methods Pad printing Hot stamping Two-shot injection molding
Screen printing

7. Equipment Extruder Mold insert shaping dies Molding machine Robotics
Sheet or film
Mold insert shaping dies
Molding machine
Injection
Blow
Robotics

8. Process Decoration insert is formed Insert placed into mold cavity
Multilayered sheet or film
Screen printed on second layer
Insert placed into mold cavity
Part is molded
Final decorated part is ejected

9. Advantages Decoration occurs during molding cycle
No secondary operations
Multicolored 3-D contoured surfaces
No adhesives
Precise graphic capabilities
No wear
Wide variety of materials

10. Disadvantages Film insert placed into mold Manually Robotics
Increases cycle time

11. Conclusions In-mold decoration Becoming the predominate process
Simple process
Efficient
High quality decoration
Economical
Becoming the predominate process