Marking, decoration & colour · finish comparison
In-Mold Decoration (IMD) vs In-Mold Labeling (IML)
In-Mold Decoration (IMD) and In-Mold Labeling (IML) are both marking & decoration finishes; iML is the lower-cost option ($$$).
In-Mold Decoration (IMD)
Marking & decoration · $$$$ · instant quote
In-mold decoration places a formed, printed decorative film in an injection mold so the graphic becomes part of the molded surface.
In-Mold Labeling (IML)
Marking & decoration · $$$ · instant quote
In-mold labeling places a preprinted label in the mold before plastic is injected.
When to choose which
Choose IMD
Choose IMD when for formed decorative-film interfaces.
- Protects reverse-printed graphics behind a clear film
- Supports multicolour and photographic decoration in one insert
- Combines molding and decoration in one production cycle
Choose IML
Choose IML when for label-like graphics on containers.
- Integrates label application with molding
- Supports full-colour graphics and machine-readable codes
- Uses a typical 50–150 µm label stock
What the numbers say
- IML is the lower-cost option ($$$).
- IML is the thinner coating (50–150 µm), so it disturbs tight fits less.
Scores side by side
Each score is 0–100 against every finish in this catalog. Corrosion is derived from salt-spray test duration and surface hardness from the finish layer's Vickers hardness where a measured figure exists; a finish that leaves the base metal's own surface is not rated for hardness. Cosmetic, lubricity and cost are FabDigit's engineering assessment. Scores and typical figures are screening data, not matched side-by-side tests or service-life rankings; ASTM B117 is a controlled salt-fog method, not a field-life prediction.
| Score | IMD | IML |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion resistance | — — | — — |
| Surface hardness / wear | — — | — — |
| Cosmetic quality | 92 Excellent | 88 Excellent |
| Lubricity | 10 Minimal | 10 Minimal |
| Cost | 65 $$$$ | 48 $$$ |
Key numbers
| Property | IMD | IML |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 100–300 µm | 50–150 µm |
| Electrical | Unchanged | Unchanged |
| Colours | full colour, metallic effects, transparent windows, custom graphics | full colour, white, transparent, metallic effects |
| Relative cost | High ($$$$) | Premium ($$$) |
| Added lead time | 15–30 working days | 10–20 working days |
| RoHS | Compliant | Compliant |
| Instant quote | Yes | Yes |
Bold marks the side that is ahead on a row where more (or less, for cost and lead time) is better. Ranges are the typical specification window; the drawing call-out fixes the class.
Which materials take each finish
| Material family | IMD | IML |
|---|---|---|
| Polymer | Yes | Yes |
IMD vs IML — frequently asked
What is the difference between IMD and IML?
In-Mold Decoration (IMD) and In-Mold Labeling (IML) are both marking & decoration finishes; iML is the lower-cost option ($$$). IML is the thinner coating (50–150 µm), so it disturbs tight fits less.
When should I use IMD instead of IML?
Choose IMD when for formed decorative-film interfaces. Conversely: choose IML when for label-like graphics on containers.
Is IMD or IML cheaper?
IML is the lower-cost finish ($$$ against $$$$ for IMD) among the finishes FabDigit quotes. Both are priced per part with a lot minimum; the exact figure appears on the instant quote once the part is uploaded.