by Scott Sabreen, The Sabreen Group, Inc. Near-infrared laser additives improve the degree of contrast, which can be further intensified by changing the laser setup parameters. Polymers possess inherent characteristics to yield "dark-colored" or "light-colored" marking contrast. Some colorant compounds containing low amounts of titanium dioxide (TiO2), and carbon black … [Read more...] about Laser Additives for Plastics Marking Using Fiber Lasers
Plastics Decorating
Q&A: Developments in Plastics Decoration
by Paul Uglum, technology advocate, fabrication engineering Delphi There are many reasons for plastic decoration and, to some extent, the term is a misnomer. We apply secondary operations to plastic parts to add value. That value can take the form of improving the appearance - and therefore increasing the desirability and perceived value - of an object, but it also can … [Read more...] about Q&A: Developments in Plastics Decoration
Q&A: Hot Stamp/Heat Transfer Tooling and Application
by Bill Morey, Schwerdtle, Inc. In 2016, are there any "typical" hot stamp or heat transfer applications? If "typical" refers to smooth, flat surface decoration or even raised letter "tip stamping," the answer is yes. Because of the benefits of the completely "dry" process of hot stamping – particularly the wide range of colors and the bright metallic finishes of hot stamp … [Read more...] about Q&A: Hot Stamp/Heat Transfer Tooling and Application
Market Trends for IMD and IML
by Dianna Brodine, Plastics Business Surveys from the In-Mold Decorating Association (IMDA) and Alexander Watson Associates (AWA) both show growth in the use of and market for in-mold labeling (IML) and in-mold decorating (IMD). Anecdotal evidence points to development in the automotive and appliance sectors, with interest due to demands for lightweighting and lower material … [Read more...] about Market Trends for IMD and IML
In-Mold Decorating Project Success: More than Technology
by Dave Schoofs, Central Decal Company There are many articles written about "successful product launches." Most articles focus on go-to-market strategies or on using tools such as APQP, PFMEA and FMEA to identify the feasibility and manage the engineering/developmental portion of the project. While all of these tools are important, innovative solutions require skills, … [Read more...] about In-Mold Decorating Project Success: More than Technology