Fuerth and Duesseldorf, 24 October 2007: Kurz will be demonstrating at K 2007 how to achieve novel designs and design effects using the tried-and-proven IML (Inmold Labeling) process.

IML technology has been employed for some years now in the high-volume decoration of plastic packaging such as yogurt and drinking cups, margarine and ice-cream containers, paint tubs and detergent bottles. This process offers an economical solution for achieving a sophisticated packaging design.

A further advantage compared to printing processes is the ability to perform design changeovers quickly and in a costeffective manner. Using IML foils from Kurz, manufacturers benefit from these advantages and can produce completely

unique designs.

Kurz's IML foil technology allows, for example, the full-surface transfer of wood designs. A large variety of highly realistic designs are available from African mahogany to gold beech to wild black cherry. Even the characteristic scarring

of the wood surface can be reproduced.

Carbon designs and various metal effects can also be reproduced. Surfaces with a strikingly realistic aluminium, titanium, chrome or stainless-steel appearance can be achieved using Kurz IML foils. These foils come in various levels of matte finish and a variety of tints; a diverse range of structures are also available, optionally with a tangible brushed structure, or a realistic brushed look and smooth surface.

Besides wood and metallic designs, foils with a holographic 3D effect can also be used. Kurz's technology enables the manufacture of inmold labels to work with striking holographic designs. Regardless of the foil design, full-surface decoration can be achieved - even for objects with a mildly 3D geometry.

This diverse range of high-quality IML designs offers the user never-before-seen design possibilities. Whether it be a tray or table set in a noble walnut design, a jewelry box with a rosewood lid, or casing components in a high-quality metallic look - products can be significantly enhanced in an economical manner using Kurz IML foils.

Even exclusive packaging for branded articles, e.g. for perfumes or spirits, can be visually enhanced by means of this economical process. To find out more, visit the Kurz Stand A 19 in Hall 5.

Background Information: The inmold labeling process

In the inmold labeling process, a design is applied to a foil consisting of the same material as the plastic component to be decorated. Ready-to-use IML blanks are then punched out of the foil roll, fixed in place within the injection mold and back-injected with plastic. The foil forms a permanent bond with the substrate and the plastic part exits the mold fully decorated with no further processing steps required.