Injection Moulding Machine for IML Tubs
IML tubs, the in-mould labelled containers used for dairy, ice cream and spreads, are made on horizontal injection moulding machines with a label robot, from high-flow PP. Mould size, cavity count and label handling time decide the machine. Label placement matters most, since a shifted or creased label scraps a finished tub.
For IML work, machine selection looks at mould opening stroke and open time for the robot, repeatable platen position, and an injection side fast enough for thin walls. Pratishna Engineers supplies horizontal injection moulding machines for IML tub production and can recommend a machine for your IML cell.
Moulding IML Tubs?
Share tub size, label type, cavity count and output target, and Pratishna Engineers will recommend a machine for the cell.
Machine Requirements for IML Tub Moulding
In an IML cell the label robot often sets the pace, so the machine has to suit the automation as well as the tub. Requirements:
- Opening stroke with room for the label robot to enter
- Repeatable mould open position for accurate label placement
- Static charging that holds the label against the cavity wall
- PP label film matched to the PP tub for recycling
- Fast injection that fills thin walls without moving the label
- Mould temperature and venting set to stop label wrinkles
Recommended Machine for IML Tubs
IML tub moulds are sized by tub diameter, cavity count and label handling, and the robot needs clear access between the platens. The C Series (140-320 T) covers many low-cavity tub tools, while the H Series (120-350 T) gives a wider choice of clamp and platen sizes. Bigger multi-cavity tools are discussed on request.
Not Sure Which Machine You Need?
Share tub and label details, plus the robot type, to plan the cell.
Why Choose Pratishna Engineers?
- Application-Based Machine Selection
- In-House Engineering & Manufacturing
- Multiple Machine Series
- Production-Focused Solutions
- End-to-End Technical Support
- Industry-Specific Solutions
- Machine Lifecycle Support
Injection Moulding Machine Buyer Resources
Download practical resources to help you select, size and specify the right machine.
Horizontal Injection Moulding Machine Selection Guide
A step-by-step guide covering the key inputs needed to select the right machine: product weight, projected area, number of cavities, plastic material, required clamping force, shot / injection capacity, mould dimensions, production quantity, cycle time and automation requirement.
Download PDFPDF · 265 KB
How to Calculate Clamping Force for an Injection Moulding Machine
A clear methodology that explains how clamping force is calculated, covering projected area, injection pressure, safety factor, number of cavities and material considerations.
Download PDFPDF · 363 KBFMCG Packaging Components & Machine Guide
A guide to FMCG Packaging components, covering caps and closures, preforms, thin-wall containers, IML tubs, cutlery, pumps and sprayers. It explains hot runner tools, cavity count, fast cycles, food-contact grades, and how to match each part to a suitable machine.
Download PDFPDF · 206 KB
FAQs / Buyer Questions
Questions dairy and food tub moulders ask when setting up IML.
Which Injection Moulding Machine Is Used to Make IML Tubs?
A horizontal machine paired with an IML robot and label magazine. The C or H Series usually covers the tool sizes buyers start with, and robot access sets the opening stroke and tie-bar spacing to check.Why Does the Label Robot Decide the Cycle?
The robot must enter, place the label and leave before the mould closes, so its speed and the mould open time set the pace. Label placement repeatability also limits how far the cycle can be pushed.Why Should the Label and Tub Be the Same Material?
A PP label on a PP tub keeps the pack in one polymer family, which matters for recycling claims. Mixing films can make the tub harder to recycle and also changes how the label bonds.
What Causes Label Wrinkles or Shifted Labels?
Weak static charge, a label magazine out of position, or melt striking the label edge too hard during injection. Gate location and fill speed are set with the label in mind as well as the tub.Can Pratishna Recommend a Machine for My IML Tub?
Yes. Share the tub drawing, volume, label size and material, mould dimensions, cavity count, robot type and required output, and Pratishna Engineers will recommend a suitable machine.Does the Machine Suit Other Decorated Packaging Too?
Yes. With the right mould and automation, the same machine class can produce sweet boxes, ice cream containers, thin-wall containers and tub lids, with or without labels.
Technical Disclaimer
Disclaimer: The information provided in this webpage is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is based on technical references and industry information available at the time of preparation and may be subject to change. It does not constitute engineering, technical, commercial or professional advice, nor does it constitute a quotation, specification, warranty or contractual commitment by Pratishna Engineers.
Actual injection moulding machine and process requirements vary according to the component design, material, mould, production volume, machine configuration and operating conditions. The information, examples, calculations and recommendations provided should be independently evaluated and verified for the specific application before making any equipment, process or production decision. Information obtained from third-party sources remains subject to the accuracy and limitations of those sources.
Limitation of Liability: Pratishna Engineers makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, regarding the completeness, accuracy or suitability of the information for any particular application. To the extent permitted by applicable law, Pratishna Engineers shall not be liable for any loss, damage, cost or consequence arising from reliance on or use of the information contained in this webpage. Final machine selection, configuration and application suitability should be confirmed with Pratishna Engineers based on complete and accurate project requirements.
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Planning a New Injection Moulding Project?
Share your component, material, mould and production target. Our engineering team will help you identify the right machine configuration.
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