Hot stamping is an efficient plastic decoration method that applies a reflective or high-gloss finish to raised surfaces, such as logos, text, or design elements. This process uses heat and pressure to transfer pre-dried ink or foil from a roll onto the plastic part, creating a durable and visually appealing finish.
During the hot stamping process, a foil roll is placed between the heated die and the plastic component. The die is pressed down onto the part, and as it lifts, the foil adheres to the areas it contacted, creating a vibrant and permanent decoration. This dry process allows stamped parts to be packed immediately on the production line.
Hot stamping offers a long-lasting and weather-resistant finish that can endure years of outdoor exposure. It’s an ideal solution for adding color and enhancing details on logos, raised text, or instructions, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and durability.
The 5 Considerations for Hot Stamping are:
- Product Design: Design your product to be compatible with the hot stamping process. Consider how the decoration will be applied during the design phase to ensure the process can be executed efficiently and effectively.
- Artwork: Collaborating with your injection molder on die design is crucial. Addressing minimum size requirements, intricate patterns, and type spacing in the early stages helps to avoid challenges and achieve the desired outcome.
- Color: Foil is available in a vast array of colors, finishes, and effects—ranging from bright metallics like silver and gold to matte finishes, opalescent effects, and holograms. Choosing a foil formulation compatible with the substrate is essential to ensure optimal adhesion and durability.
- Fixture: A fixture or nest is necessary to hold the part securely during the stamping process. Work with your injection molder to provide the correct support under the contact point, ensuring accurate and consistent results.
- Machine Selection: Hot stamping machines vary from hand-operated models to pneumatic systems. If your injection molder offers this service, they will use the appropriate equipment to ensure the process is executed successfully for your specific product.
