Sustainable Materials of Plastic Decoration for Auto Interior - IMR/IMF

The cabin experience in vehicles is becoming increasingly important and is expected to overtake traditional differentiators such as engine performance and powertrains. A survey found that 71% of automotive executives believe vehicle interiors will become more important, while only 38% held the same views about vehicle exteriors. On the other side, sustainability is becoming increasingly important as the demand for electric cars and innovative mobility solutions grows. More people are paying more attention to the climate risks faced by car manufacturers and suppliers. All these considerations have transferred how OEMs develop plastic decoration for automotive interiors. In-mold Roller(IMR), In-mold Film(IMF) or Film Insert Molding(INS) are types of In-mold Decoration specifically designed to allow designers or engineers to create these surfaces using films that can create automotive plastic interiors with innovative, sustainable and hygienic solutions. Let’s read on !

Why OEMs and Suppliers Should Consider IMR/IMF

In-Mold Decoration (IMD) is a sustainable material for automotive interior decoration. IMR, IMF and INS are the most commonly used processes for the automotive industry. These manufacturing processes use a thin layer of film that is inserted into a mold with plastic. The film acts as a decorative layer while the plastic provides structural support. This method is cost-effective and eliminates the need for additional printing or painting processes. It also allows for a wide variety of designs, colors and textures to be used in the decoration process. The combination of these materials makes it an ideal option for creating automotive interiors that are both aesthetically pleasing and durable. Additionally, IMD is an environmentally friendly option as it does not use any hazardous chemicals or produce any waste products during production. Here we listed 7 reasons that OEM and suppliers in the automotive industry should consider using In-Mold Release or In-Mold Film for their interior plastic components.

• 1. Aesthetics Design :

  IMD/IMR/IMF allows for the creation of intricate and visually appealing designs that can enhance the overall appearance and appeal of the vehicle interior.

  
  

• 2. Reducing Cost :

  IMD/IMR/IMF is a cost-effective solution as it reduces the need for multiple processes and materials, such as separate decals and adhesives.

  
  

• 3. Sustainability :

  IMD/IMR/IMF uses fewer materials and generates less waste compared to traditional decorating methods, making it a more sustainable option.

  
  

  

  
  

  
  

• 4. Hygiene & Biocompatibility :

  IMD/IMR/IMF can be used to create surfaces that are resistant to bacteria and germs, making it a suitable choice for vehicles used for shared mobility services.

  Read Also : Antibacterial In-Mold Decoration : A Breakthrough for Plastic Surface Design and Hygiene

  
  

• 5. Backlighting-capable:

  IMD/IMR/IMF can be used to create surfaces that are capable of backlighting, which is ideal for touch operation and enhancing the overall in-car experience.

  
  

• 6. Capable for all plastics:

  IMD/IMR/IMF can be used on various types of plastic, making it a versatile solution that can be applied to different parts of the vehicle.

  
  

• 7. Customization in the interior:

  IMD/IMR/IMF allows for the creation of customized designs in different lots that can be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the customer.

  
  

Sustainable Materials in the Automotive Industry : Challenges and Opportunities

The automotive industry has been contributing significantly to the plastic material consumption over the past couple of decades. Over 90% of all cars on the road today are made out of some form of plastic, and this number is expected to grow as more and more vehicles are being built with more plastic parts. Though this trend is not necessarily a bad thing, it does present challenges for manufacturers and designers who want their vehicles to look good, innovative and attractive while using sustainable materials whenever possible. One of these challenges is choosing which type of plastics and process will work best for each part or component in a vehicle so that they can maximize performance while also reducing their environmental impact.

Why You Should Work with Sentien For Your Interior Design Projects

Leveraging over 50 years of experience, Sentien creates high-quality, industry-compliant molded films for a range of automotive applications. To learn more about our in-mold decoration capabilities in this industry and examples in other industries, contact us today !