What is the IMD control panel?

IMD is the acronym for In Mold Decoration, also known as in mold injection molding process.

IMD - In-mold Decoration Inlay Injection Molding Technology is a new type of mechanical and electrical panel manufacturing process. Since the 1990s, it has evolved from the original double-layer film interlayer bonding structure of thin film panels to the injection molding three-dimensional structure molding technology, which has become a popular nameplate processing process. The IMD control panel manufactured has changed from the traditional style of two-dimensional flat panels to thin film sheets A new style of a three in one panel combining silk screen ink, graphics, and injection resin.

IMD control panel - refers to the hot pressing of silk printed film sheets with graphic and textual styles, which are then placed in the injection mold cavity and then combined for injection molding. Injection molded resin is bonded to the ink layer on the back of the thin film sheet, and the panel graphics and text are placed between the thin film sheet and the injection molded resin. The graphics and text will not be worn out due to long-term friction. The IMD control panel is based on injection molding, and its shape and size can be stable, making it easier to assemble. Therefore, IMD technology is often applied to display panels in automobiles, household appliances, medical devices, and mechanical equipment, integrating decoration and functionality.

1、 IMD product features

The IMD control panel is decorated with graphics and text, labeled in injection molded resin, and is not subject to friction or chemical corrosion. Reusable injection molds require the replacement of film sheets with different graphic, logo, and color designs. A three-dimensional product with a strong sense of depth.

Customizable graphics and text, logo backlighting, and high transparency window effects can be customized according to customer needs.

The functional buttons on the IMD control panel are evenly bulging and have a good feel, with a lifespan of over 1 million times. The 3D characteristics of the IMD control panel change shape according to the product design. The injection molding process can achieve a seamless fit with the product.

2、 IMD/IML panel application field

Home appliance industry: control and decoration panels for rice cookers, broken wall cooking machines, washing machines, microwaves, air conditioners, refrigerators, water heaters, fingerprint password locks, etc;

Electronics industry: Decorative covers and signs for calculators, digital cameras, etc; Automotive industry: instrument panels, car lamp housings, logos, car handles, etc; Computer industry: keyboard, mouse, and other surface shells;

Communication industry: phone buttons, phone cases, phone cases, and window lenses; Other industries: medical devices, cosmetic boxes, decorative boxes, toys, etc.

3、 The Development Prospects of IMD Process

The IMD injection molding process is applied in industries such as home appliances, electronics, automobiles, medical devices, and mobile phones. Based on the different ideas of designers and the different needs of products, various personalized designs can be designed to meet the needs of the times. The IMD process can achieve a perfect combination of functionality and decoration, while also producing different special effects, such as button bulges, metal mirror or matte surfaces, metal wire drawing effects, window transparency, etc.

The IMD control panel can replace traditional thin film panels, and its popularity in the home appliance machinery accessory industry can achieve energy conservation and environmental protection, which will bring huge economic and environmental benefits to society and enterprises.