In-Mold Decoration of Bottles

GE Plastics, of Southfield, Mich., is exploring the in-mold decoration (IMD) technology in the five gallon water bottle market. Plans for GE Plastics are to be the first supplier to offer manufacturers more distinctive and long-lasting labeling than previously possible. Graphical flexibility allows changing company labels by altering the artwork on the screen printer. IMD also emphasizes second-surface printing, which puts the printed ink on the reverse side of LEXAN resin film. Naturally transparent, the film works well with water bottles, which require clarity to show off the product inside.