The IML-T® technology developed by ILLIG enables customised all-round decoration options with labels made of plastic, paper and now cardboard.
6 October 2020
Designed for recycling: Attractive for numerous applications, IML-T® Cardboard from ILLIG.
(Image: ILLIG)
ILLIG Maschinenbau is once again breaking new ground and presenting the plastic-cardboard composite packaging IML-T® Cardboard under the motto „Designed for Recycling“. The developers have taken care to preserve the good, sharpen the existing technology and incorporate the new. This innovative application can be produced on ILLIG IML-T® systems.
The Heilbronn-based system supplier of machines and moulds for thermoforming, ILLIG Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG (Heilbronn), has added IML-T® Cardboard to its range of applications with In-mould labelling in thermoforming. IML-T® means that the packaging is decorated during thermoforming.
The IML label, which is precisely inserted into the thermoforming tool before the moulding process, bonds perfectly with the plastic film as it is formed into the finished packaging. The end result is packaging that is decorated in a single operation. The IML-T® technology developed by ILLIG enables Individual all-round decoration options with labels made of plastic, paper and now cardboard.
The IML-T® Cardboard application can be implemented on existing ILLIG thermoforming systems with an IML unit. This means that packaging specialists who work with an ILLIG IML-T® system can use the packaging without a new machine investment can produce. All that is required is a tool set corresponding to the packaging design.
Display
The connected to a thermoformer IML unit removes the cardboard blanks (labels) printed with the motif from the magazine and inserts them into the cavities of the mould in the forming station of the thermoformer before moulding. The result is a new type of cup or tray.
Another advantage is that each cavity of the mould can be equipped with a individually printed label and product changes can be carried out quickly and easily. With the high productivity typical of ILLIG thermoforming systems, the resource-efficient and sustainable packaging produced economically.
Sven Engelmann (Image: Illig)
„The advantage of packaging specially developed for the new circular thinking market requirements is the easy separation of plastic and cardboard. This enables optimal recycling.“
Sven Engelmann, Product Area Manager PB2 & Head of Packaging Technology at ILLIG Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG, Heilbronn
Design for recycling for sustainability
Once again, the company has customised the IML-T® Cardboard according to current circular thinking market requirements developed within a short space of time.
Under the umbrella of the 360-degree customised packaging development Pactivity®, the experts from the packaging laboratory, technology, toolmaking and mechanical engineering have brought this sustainable and resource-efficient application solution to market maturity and implemented it technically. In doing so, they have taken aspects of Eco Designs and Designs for Recycling with it. This once again documents the company's technological market leadership in thermoforming.
The plastic cup and cardboard sleeve can be easily separated. (Image: ILLIG)
Good for the environment, content and consumers
The advantage of the IML-T® Cardboard packaging is the very thin-walled (material-saving) plastic inlay with a wrapping cardboard that increases the rigidity of the packaging and thus guarantees the stability and top load of the packaging. The packaging can be sealed and the cardboard brilliantly decorated with the advertising messages on five or six sides with the base printed on both sides.
After use, plastic and cardboard can be easily separated by the consumer or after disposal in the collection system at the recycling plant and fed into the respective material cycles: ideal conditions for a sustainable recycling process. Single-variety and optimised recycling.
This property has a positive effect on the Brand image of the packaged product. Regional brands in particular can use this Sustainability concept be upgraded.
Optimum separation (Image: Illig)
Wide range of applications
The application is completely new and will open up the market for thermoformed decorated packaging, especially in the Premium segment enrich. IML-T® Cardboard is used for Pet food and non-food products and especially in the Food sector. Possible applications include meat (MAP) and vegetable trays, ice cream containers and frozen meal trays, packaging for delicatessen products, dairy products, margarine and spreads, spreads, jams and marmalades or cereals.
This packaging solution will certainly be used to enhance other applications at the PoS in the future - for example Benefits for the environment, the content and the consumer.
