Sven Kitzlinger, senior application manager medical at Arburg, discusses using IML labels with function integration in the medtech industry. Products decorated using in-mould labelling (IML) are now standard in the packaging industry. For applications in the medical sector, on the other hand, it is not just the decor that is important, but above all precision and added value by integrating functions. At the Fakuma 2023 trade fair, a newly designed application was on display that fulfils precisely these requirements. Using the example of centrifuge tubes, the great potential of the IML process for use in medical technology and the pharmaceutical industry was demonstrated. The partners involved in this innovative project are Arburg (injection moulding machine), Beck (automation), KEBO (mould), MCC/Verstraete (label) and Intravis (camera inspection). Together, they have their expertise to developing and realising an IML concept that is set to generate momentum in the medical sector. Automation enables precise positioning, integrated functions create added value, monomer material is recyclable, 100% traceability, an efficient injection moulding process, and rejects are reduced by a factor of 10. Due to the combined expertise of machine, tool and IML technology experts and automation, an IML application has been developed that is setting standards in the medical industry. It enables precise, space-saving and cost-efficient production of IML products – without any additional hygiene risk or work for staff and logistics.

Using IML labels with function integration in the medtech industry

At Fakuma 2023, a new application showcasing in-mould labelling (IML) technology was introduced, demonstrating its potential for precision and added value in the medical sector and pharmaceutical industry. The project involved Arburg (injection moulding machine), Beck (automation), KEBO (mould), MCC/Verstraete (label), and Intravis (camera inspection). This innovative IML concept enables precise, space-saving, and cost-efficient production of IML products, reducing rejects by a factor of 10 and ensuring 100% traceability.