Electrostatic In Mould Labelling (IML)

In Mould Labelling, also referred to as ‘In Mold Labelling’ or IML, with the help of static electricity is becoming the new standard in injection moulding, thermoforming and blow moulding industry. Instead of conventional methods like decorating by printing directly or placing an adhesive label onto the product, the decoration is achieved with a pre-printed plastic label. The pre-printed label is positioned into the injection mould and kept in place by an electrostatic charge. This way the label will be moulded together with the product shape and comes out as a finished, fully recyclable product.

What is In Mould Labelling (IML)

Whether you are an end-user or a robotics manufacturer, Simco-ION can assist you with advice and knowledge in creating the perfect In Mold Labeling solution. It is essential when starting a new IML project to make the right decisions to create a competitive product.

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Outside the mould the robot picks-up a single, pre-printed label to transport (high-speed) and place it into the mould cavity (single or multiple), where it sticks due to the electrostatic bond between the label and the metal mould wall (ground potential). Therefore the label will not slip or change position in the mould during the moulding process and a perfect In Mould Labelling result can be achieved with an optimal cycle-time.

Static Electricity and IML

We have years of experience with the In Mould Labeling process and In Mould Labelling equipment and therefore developed solutions for both metallic and non-metallic printed labels:

  • Several charging techniques (pinning, direct & simplified IML)
  • High voltage charging IML generators; 100-240V and special end-of-arm 24V IML Charge Master Micro Easy (CMME)
  • IML electrodes; high voltage bars and the special IML-spider
  • IML electrode materials (semi-conductive foam and special 2-component potting IML Easycore)
  • IML high voltage cables (extra flexible for cable chain)

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Commonly Used Products

CMME CMM IQ Easy

CMM IQ Eeasy

The CMME is a small profile footprint charging generator specially designed for IML applications. The unit has fully integrated high voltage parts and only needs a 24V DC supply. The housing is compact, robust and only weighs 500 grams which makes it perfect for end of arm mounting in IML pick and placehandling systems. It can easily withstand the high G-forces occurring during the IML process.

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CM5 30

CM5-30

CM5 is fully backwards compatible with ECM30/60 and ECM DI30/60.
For basic users a quick set-up menu is provided to set-up the generator to function as an ECM30/60. The Menu is available in English, German, French and Italian.
The new standard function Current Control will enable you to set a constant current vs a constant voltage. This will provide a much more stable charging and will compensate contamination and emitter pin wear automatically.

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HDR

HDR Charging Bar

The HDR charging bar suits high velocity applications. Each individual point being fitted with a resistor, so the chance of spark-over is strongly reduced.

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IML Easycore

IML Easycore

Simco-Ion’s patented IML charging technique for use in IML robot applications is even more versatile with the IML Easycore 2 component resin for construction of IML cores. The conductive IML Mould resin can be used to transfer the power of the Simco-IOn IML Generators to the IML Labels. Even very complex and small cores can be constructed with the 2 component resin. The resin is specially developed by Simco-Ion to have the perfect electrical and mechanical properties for use as an IML core. All mechanical operations s.a. drilling, grinding, milling etc are possible to make the core to the perfect shape and size. The IML Easycore comes in duo-packs consisting of the resin and the correct amount of hardener.

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