TOM & IMG.
Surface decoration technology for automotive interiors and premium products. Machinecraft's TOM (Three-dimensional Overlay Method) and IMG (In-Mold Graining) machines bring Japanese and global technology to Indian manufacturing through strategic partnerships.
These machines represent the artistic side of thermoforming — transforming plain plastic parts into premium-looking components with leather, wood, metallic, or custom textures.
3D Overlay Method.
What is TOM?
The Three-dimensional Overlay Method (TOM) is a double-chamber vacuum/pressure forming process that laminates decorative films — metallic, wood grain, carbon fiber, marble — over complex 3D surfaces. Unlike traditional wrapping, TOM achieves zero-wrinkle adhesion even on deep-draw geometries, creating waterproof, durable decorative finishes in a single step.
3D Film Lamination
Apply decorative films (metallic, wood grain, carbon fiber) over complex 3D surfaces with zero wrinkles
Double Chamber Design
Patented dual-chamber vacuum/pressure system ensures uniform film adhesion on deep-draw geometries
Multi-Material Compatibility
Works with PC, PMMA, PET, and specialty films on substrates including ceramics, plastics, and composites
Waterproof Finish
Creates sealed, waterproof decorative surfaces ideal for bathroom panels and wet-area applications
TOM Applications
- Bathroom wall panels & shower surrounds
- Toilet seat covers with wood/marble finish
- Kitchen backsplash panels
- Automotive interior trim with metallic finish
- Consumer electronics housings
- Furniture panels with decorative surfaces
In-Mold Graining.
What is IMG?
In-Mold Graining (IMG) is a thermoforming process that transfers leather, wood, or custom grain textures directly onto plastic parts during the forming cycle. The mold surface carries the grain pattern, which is imprinted onto the heated thermoplastic sheet as it forms. This eliminates the need for secondary painting, wrapping, or coating — producing automotive-grade textured surfaces in a single operation.
In-Mold Graining
Transfers leather, wood, or custom grain textures directly onto thermoformed parts during the forming process
Automotive Interior Grade
Meets OEM specifications for automotive interior components including dashboards, door panels, and pillars
Single-Step Process
Combines forming and surface decoration in one operation — no secondary painting or wrapping needed
Large Format Capability
Handles full-size automotive interior panels up to instrument panel dimensions
IMG Applications
- Automotive dashboards & instrument panels
- Door panel inner trims
- A/B/C pillar covers
- Center console components
- Glove box lids
- Trunk/boot liners with textured finish
MC-IMG-1350 Technical Specifications
Platen & Tool
- Platen Size: 1900 x 900 mm (max)
- Tool Size: 1300 x 550 mm (max)
- Working Area: 1800 x 800 mm
- Daylight Opening: 2200 mm
Sheet Handling
- Max Blank: 1350 x 600 mm
- Min Blank: 800 x 400 mm
- Platen Travel: 1050 mm each
- Clamping Force: ~10 tonnes
Vacuum & Speed
- Vacuum Tanks: 2 x 1000 liters
- Vacuum Pumps: 2 x 100 m³/hr
- Max Table Speed: 250 mm/s
- Min Table Speed: 30 mm/s
Heating & Power
- Heating: IR Quartz (650W each)
- Max Heating Area: 1500 x 650 mm
- Heating Load: 70.2 kW
- Total Connected: ~100 kW
Control & Drive
- PLC: Mitsubishi FX5U Series
- HMI: 10 inch touchscreen
- Servos: Mitsubishi Japan
- Pneumatics: Festo make
Cooling & Features
- Air Blowers: 4 x EBM Papst
- Quick Tool Change: Ball transfer units
- Clamp Frame: Servo-driven XY adjustable
- Load Capacity: 2000 kg
Technology Collaborations.
Machinecraft partners with global technology leaders to bring world-class thermoforming capabilities to our customers.
FVF Japan
TOM TechnologyExclusive technology partnership for 3D overlay machines — bringing Japanese precision to Indian manufacturing
GS Engineering USA
IMG TechnologyIMG machine built compatible with GS Engineering tooling — serving global automotive OEMs
Lanulfi Italy
Precision ToolingPartnership for high-precision aluminium tooling and mould manufacturing
FRIMO Germany
Advanced TechnologyTechnology collaboration for advanced thermoforming and automation solutions
Ready to Elevate Your Production?.
Contact us to discuss your specific application for TOM or IMG technology. Our engineers can help you select the right machine and process to achieve your desired surface finish and production goals.
Request a Consultation