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Design Considerations for Corporate Branding

When adding company lettering, branding, or logos to plastic injection moulded parts, several design considerations need to be taken into account. These considerations include:

Size and Placement: The size and placement of the lettering, branding, or logos should be carefully chosen to ensure optimum visibility. It’s important to consider the available surface area on the part to avoid overcrowding or interference with other product features.

Material Compatibility: The plastic material should be compatible with the desired lettering or branding. Some plastics may have limitations in terms of texture, colour, or surface finish. It is advisable to consult with a materials specialist or a designer to ensure compatibility.

Mould Design: Designing the mould with proper cavities, inserts, or sliders can ensure accurate reproduction of the desired branding on the moulded part. Mould design should consider factors like parting line placement, draft angles, and overall mould complexity.

Embossing, Engraving, or In-Mould Decoration Techniques: Various techniques can be employed to add lettering or branding during the injection moulding process. Embossing or engraving can be used to create raised or recessed logos. In-mould decoration techniques, such as in-mould labelling or in-mould painting, can provide high-quality branding directly on to the surface of the part.

Contrast and Colour Selection: The colour contrast between the part and the lettering or branding should be carefully considered to ensure readability and visual appeal. High contrast can make the branding stand out, enhancing its visibility and brand recognition.

How to Achieve Corporate Branding

Some techniques for achieving corporate branding on injection moulded parts include:

Mould engraving: Branding can be directly engraved on to the surface of the injection mould. This allows the logo or text to be imprinted on to each plastic part consistently.

Mould insert: A pre-made mould insert, usually made of steel or another durable material, can be inserted into the injection mould. The insert contains the desired lettering or branding on its surface. When the molten plastic is injected into the mould, it will mould around the insert, transferring the branding on to the plastic part.

Mould-On Lettering: A separate mould is used to create the lettering or branding elements. These moulded pieces are then placed on to the plastic parts and bonded using adhesives or ultrasonic welding techniques. This allows for more flexibility in terms of changing the branding elements if required.

Hot stamping: This process involves using a heated metal stamp or die, which contains the desired lettering or branding, to transfer the design on to the plastic part. The stamp is pressed on to the heated plastic surface, leaving a permanent mark as it cools and solidifies.

The Value of Corporate Branding

There are many benefits to adding branding to an injection moulded part. These include:

Brand Identification: Branding allows products to be easily associated with a specific company. This improves brand recognition and enhances brand visibility in the marketplace.

Professional Appearance: Corporate branding adds a professional and polished look to a part. This increases credibility and enhances the customer’s perception of product quality.

Promotional and Marketing Benefits: Branded parts can act as promotional tools by serving as a constant reminder of the company’s products or services.

Anti-Counterfeiting Measures: Adding proprietary logos, holograms, or other security features on plastic moulded parts helps to deter counterfeit products. It allows customers to easily identify genuine products, thus protecting the integrity and reputation of the brand.

Increase Perceived Value: Branding can increase the perceived value of a product by leveraging already-established consumer trust. This is one of the reasons why new products from market leaders can justify a higher price point than similar products from new entrants.

Potential Issues with Corporate Branding

There are also some drawbacks to applying corporate branding to injection moulded parts. Some of these issues include:

Compromised Structural Integrity: Adding lettering or logos to a part can weaken its structural integrity. The addition of raised lettering, for example, can create stress points, reduce wall thickness, or cause uneven distribution of material. These factors may lead to part failure or decreased performance.

Increase in Cost: Incorporating intricate logos or branding may require additional tooling, design modifications, or specialised equipment. This may render the process economically unfeasible for companies with limited resources or for small production runs.

Aesthetic Concerns: Adding company lettering or branding can sometimes harm the desired appearance of a moulded part. This can result in an unattractive or inconsistent product.