The IMD-technique combines molding and hot stamping into one working operation.

By the complete decoration of plastic parts during the molding operation, the production costs can be reduced considerably: decoration after molding, in-process inventory and additional working steps can be dropped. The IMD-process is a simultaneous decoration during the molding process.

This process is working with a modified hot stamping foil which is being fed through the mold by a transportation unit. After closing the mold, the foil is pressed into the cavity by the injection molding material.

Mass temperature ad molding pressure release the decorative layer from the polyester carrier and combine it with the plastic part, which can be taken from the carrier as soon as the molding material cooled down.

After this working step transportation unit is positioning the foil once again.