Substrates
Substrate is a term used in the printing, converting, and lamination industries as a general term to describe the base material onto which images will be printed or laminated. Below are descriptions of some of the many available substrates; if you are not sure of the substrate required for your application, please contact our engineers for assistance selecting the product that meets your requirements.
Textured (Satin or Orange Peel)
This material is perhaps the most commonly used substrate for in-mold labeling today. The construction of this material is similar to diagram C. When this material is printed it has a smooth surface but the molding pressure and temperature cause the foamed core to collapse giving the surface a textured, satin gloss, or orange peel look. This also allows for an overlap of the label that appears seamless. This material is well suited for food containers. Because the material has a grain or feed direction it should be tested in early stages of your product.
- No warp
- Easily die cut
- Shrinks well with the product
- Only available in white
White Glossy Film
The solid core of this film, similar to diagram B, assures that the film has a smooth glossy look after molding. Because the material has a grain or feed direction it should be tested in early stages of your product.
- Can warp your molded part depending on wall thickness and geometry
- Used with food
- Cannot be overlapped seamlessly
Glossy Transparent Film
If you require a transparent see through look this film works well. The solid core, similar to diagram A, assures that the film has a smooth glossy look after molding. Because the material has a grain or feed direction it should be tested in early stages of your product.
- Can warp your molded part depending on wall thickness and geometry
- Used with food
- Cannot be overlapped seamlessly
White Cast Film
This material, similar to diagram A, is good for large and small containers. Cast materials are useful with product that might have a tendency to warp during the molding cycle.
- Good for larger parts
- Glossy finish
- Can produce streaking of the part
- Cannot be overlapped seamlessly
Transparent Cast
This material, similar to diagram A, is good for large and small containers. Cast materials are useful with product that might have a tendency to warp during the molding cycle.
- Good for larger parts
- Glossy finish
- Cannot be overlapped seamlessly