What Is IMG/IMGL?
High-Fidelity Grain Tools for Automotive Interiors
In-Mold Graining (IMG), including its variant IMGL (In-Mold Graining–Laser), is a vacuum-forming process that transfers high-definition surface textures—such as leather, wood, or custom grains—from master models directly into thermoplastic parts. Weber uses precision-crafted nickel shell tooling to capture and replicate complex grain patterns with exacting detail and repeatability.
The Weber Difference
Rapid Production
Our NVD nickel shells deliver first tools in just 5–6 weeks—20× faster than electroforming.
Repeatable Vacuum Layouts
Laser-drilled vacuum holes (0.18 mm) ensure consistent vacuum pull and each cavity processes identically—critical when building multi-cavity shells.
Perfect Grain Transfer
Atom-by-atom deposition captures sharp, edge-to-edge grain detail—even through negative vacuum-forming
Modular & Repairable
Shells mount easily, can be dismounted and remounted on vacuum box assemblies, and are repairable in-house or on-site
Key Advantages for IMG Tooling
Feature
0.18 mm laser-drilled holes
Modular shell mounting
Zero distortion shells
Rapid shell turnaround
Detail
Reliable, cavity-matched vacuum forming
Easy swapping of part shells; reduces tooling downtime
High-quality grain replication without stress artifacts
5–6 weeks for first tools; spares in only 3–4 weeks
Chosen by Top Brands. Proven in Production
Weber has engineered IMG and IMGL tooling for some of the most discerning high-volume automotive programs.
