IML (in-mold labeling) is a process used to decorate and label plastic products during the manufacturing process. The process involves inserting a pre-printed label into a mold before the plastic is injected. The label is then permanently fused to the plastic product as it cools and solidifies.

An IML mould is a specialized type of injection mould that is specifically designed to work with the IML process. The mould is typically made of steel or aluminum and has a number of cavities that correspond to the shape of the final product. The mould also has a special mechanism, such as a robotic arm, to insert the pre-printed label into the mold before the plastic is injected.

One of the main advantages of IML is that it allows for high-quality, full-color decorations to be applied to plastic products. It also allows for the use of multiple colors, graphics and images on a single product. The process is also fast and efficient and can be automated, which makes it ideal for large-scale production.

Another advantage of IML is that the label is fused to the plastic product, which makes it very durable and resistant to wear, tear and fading. This means that the product will retain its original appearance for a long time and will not need to be replaced frequently.

IML is commonly used in a wide range of plastic products including, but not limited to, food packaging, consumer goods, cosmetics, and automotive parts. The IML process can be applied to a wide variety of plastic products with almost all kind of shapes and sizes, making it a versatile solution for many types of product decoration and labeling.

It is important to note that the success of the IML process relies heavily on the quality of the mould design and the quality of the labels used in the process. It is important to choose experienced and reputable suppliers for both the mould and the labels to ensure a successful outcome.