IMDA announces annual introduction to In-Mold labeling

The In-Mold Decorating Association (IMDA) will hold ‘The ABC’s of IML: A Basic Course’ on March 28, 2013, in Skokie, Illinois.

The seminar is an introductory In-Mold labeling (IML) and In-Mold decorating (IMD) course design for those considering entry into the IML market, as well as a refresher course for the more experienced.

It is updated yearly to provide a basic grounding in IML of packaging and IMD of durable products, as well as the fundamentals of extrusion blow molding, injection IML, the In-Mold process, production of In-Mold labels, current markets, functions across the IML value chain and future growth opportunities.

Participants will learn:

Why IML?

• The IML and IMD processes
• How IML differs from conventional blow molding and injection molding and thermoforming
• The advantages and disadvantages of the IML process and comparisons to other techniques
• How IML for packaging differs from insert IMD of durable products

The production of In-Mold labels

• The converting and printing processes used to make IML
• Heat seal labels and how they work
• Heat seal requirements and function
• Heat seal, paper base stock and film suppliers
• Advantages of film vs paper labels and the available film substrates

The IML market

• The major IML converters, printers and end users
• Current IML market size and historical growth
• Cost of film vs. paper labels
• In-Mold labeled products
• Getting started in IML
• Overview of the European, Australian and Japanese markets

The future of IML

• Future IML market needs and industry trends
• Challenges to IML

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