IMD-Q / IMD-X - 2-Component In-Mold Decoration Ink
1. Overview & Applications
The IMD-Q and IMD-X series are high-performance, 2-component screen printing inks engineered specifically for In-Mold Decoration (IMD) and In-Mold Labeling (IML) processes. They deliver exceptional elongation (stretchability) during forming, superior high-temperature resistance during injection molding, and robust outdoor weatherability.
Applicable Substrates: PET and PC (Polycarbonate) films.
Primary Applications: Membrane switch overlays for home appliances, mobile phone casings, and automotive dashboard panels.
2. Physical & Chemical Performance Tests
Testing Conditions: Printed on PET/PC films. Colors printed with 250-300 mesh, D-2 Binder printed with 200 mesh. Squeegee: 65-70° PU.
| Gloss Finish | High Gloss |
|---|---|
| Adhesion (Cross-Hatch) | 3M Tape Peel Test (1mm spacing, 5 peels): 100% Retention |
| Alcohol Resistance | Cotton swab with alcohol, 500g load, 100 rubs: No abnormalities |
| Water Resistance | Submersed in 40°C tap water for 48 hours: No abnormalities |
| Heat Resistance | Placed in an 80°C oven for 500 hours: No changes in appearance or adhesion |
| Acid & Alkali Resistance | Soaked in 5% H₂SO₄ and 5% NaOH respectively for 8 hours: No abnormalities |
| Thermal Cycling | Molded parts cycled from -30°C (1 hr) to 70°C (1 hr) for 10 cycles: No abnormalities |
3. Color Series
The IMD series includes 65 standard colors, all thoroughly tested for compliance with EU RoHS and Japan ST heavy metal standards.
- Standard Solid Colors: 102 Extra White, Yellows, Reds, Blues (e.g., 502 Heliogen Blue), Greens, 702 Extra Black, and 800 Backing Gray.
- High-Opacity Series (G): G2201 Yellow, G3301 Red, etc. (Ideal for dark backgrounds).
- Metallic & Pearl Colors: A01 to A07 (Silvers and Golds); B10 to B28 (Pearls and Chameleon Colors).
- Fluorescent & Transparent Tints: D-Series and T-Series.
4. Mixing Formula & IMD Process Guidelines
Ink Mixing Formula
This is a strict 2-component system. Proper ratio management is critical for molding survival.
| IMD Ink (Any Color) | 100 Parts |
|---|---|
| FQ-Hardener | 15 Parts |
| Thinner | 10 - 15 Parts. Select from FM-3300 (Fast), FM-3200 (Medium), or FM-3100 (Slow) based on workshop conditions. |
Printing & Drying Sequence for IMD
For successful injection molding, layers must be sequentially baked:
- Graphic Layers: Print base colors (e.g., 502 Blue or Metallic Silver). Bake each layer at 70°C for 10 minutes to achieve touch-dry status.
- Backing Layer: Print the opaque backing layer (e.g., White or Gray). Bake at 70°C - 80°C for 60 minutes.
- IMD Binder / Adhesive: Print the 1-component D-2 Binder over the entire printed area. Bake at 70°C - 90°C for 30 minutes. The film is now ready for thermoforming and injection molding.
1. Binder Mesh: The D-2 Binder must be printed using a low mesh count (200 mesh/inch) to deposit a thick enough layer to fuse with the hot injection resin.
2. Process Variables: Successful In-Mold Decoration depends on multiple interacting factors: vacuum/pressure forming temperatures, film stretch limits, ink layer thickness, injection gate design, injection temperature, and resin compatibility.
3. Mandatory Trials: Users MUST conduct comprehensive full-cycle forming and injection molding trials before initiating mass production. We assume no liability for damages caused by unverified process parameters.
4. Shelf Life: 1 year.
Want to see commercial IMD applications and packaging examples for this ink?
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