Products

In Mold Grain (IMG) and In Mold Grain Lamination (IMGL) SYstems

Custom Engineered in Mold Grain (IMG) and In Mold Grain Lamination (IMGL) Systems

Modern Machinery designs and builds custom In Mold Grain Thermoforming Systems and In Mold Grain Lamination thermoforming systems for manufacturers producing high-quality automotive interior components.

Our equipment is engineered to deliver exceptional repeatability, surface quality, and production efficiency for demanding applications including:

  • Trim Uppers
  • Instrument Panels
  • Center Consoles
  • Glove Boxes
  • Interior Trim Components

Every production environment is different. That's why every Modern IMG or IMGL system is custom engineered around your tooling, materials, automation requirements, production goals, and future expansion plans.

Whether you're launching a new automotive program or upgrading existing equipment, Modern Machinery provides the engineering expertise, machine design, controls integration, installation, and long-term service support needed for reliable production.

Automotive interior manufacturers face increasing demands for tighter tolerances, premium surface finishes, and faster production cycles. Modern Machinery designs every IMG and IMGL system to meet these evolving requirements while providing the flexibility to adapt to future programs, new materials, and changing production volumes. Our goal is to build equipment that not only performs on day one but continues delivering value for years to come.

IMG Overall Machine

Why Manufacturers Choose MODERN.

  • Custom engineered solutions
  • High precision forming
  • Proven automotive experience
  • Integrated automation
  • Faster changeovers
  • Reduced downtime
  • Long-term service and support

Planning a new IMG or IMGL project?

Our engineering team is ready to discuss your application. Schedule a consultation with Modern Machinery today.

engineered for Precision Forming

The form station is where a product quality is won or lost.

Modern Machinery's IMG and IMGL systems incorporate advanced forming technology that delivers the consistency automotive manufacturers demand.

Consistent part quality begins with a stable and repeatable forming process. By combining high forming tonnage with precision direct-drive technology and intelligent material control, Modern Machinery helps manufacturers reduce variation, improve dimensional accuracy, and produce consistently high-quality interior components throughout every production shift.

Form Station Tonnage

Higher clamping force creates an exceptional seal during pressure forming, helping produce:

  • Improved part definition

  • Better grain reproduction

  • Consistent lamination quality

  • Reduced scrap

Direct Drive Form Station

Our direct-drive technology provides:

  • Accurate platen positioning

  • Repeatable forming cycles

  • Reduced mechanical wear

  • Greater process stability

Automatic Stretching Frames

The automatic stretching frames provides significant production flexibility. Benefits include:

  • In-process material stretching

  • Automatic adjustment between tools

  • Improved material control

  • Reduced operator intervention

  • Consistent material placement

Precision Forming

Overall benefits:

  • Better repeatability

  • Higher quality parts

  • Faster setup

  • Increased productivity

Automated Sheet Handling for Maximum Productivity

Material handling plays a critical role in maintaining production efficiency.

Modern Machinery incorporates intelligent automation that minimizes downtime while improving operator safety and process consistency.

Production efficiency depends on more than machine speed. It requires dependable automation that keeps materials moving, minimizes interruptions, and protects valuable cover stock from costly mistakes. Our automated material handling solutions are engineered to maximize machine uptime while giving operators greater confidence and control throughout the manufacturing process.

Auto Sheet Loader or Blanking System

Automatically loads cover-stock material into the machine. Benefits include:

  • Reduced manual handling
  • Improved cycle consistency
  • Less operator fatigue
  • Increased throughput

Sheet Drop Detection

Area scanners detect dropped or improperly loaded sheets before overheating occurs. Benefits include:

  • Protects expensive materials

  • Reduces scrap

  • Prevents equipment damage

  • Improves machine safety

On-The-Fly Sheet Loading

Operators can replenish material while the machine continues running. Advantages include:

  • Reduced downtime
  • Continuous production
  • Improved machine utilization
  • Increased overall efficiency

Why it Matters.

Every minute of downtime impacts production schedules. Modern's automation helps manufacturers keep production moving.

Tool Changes Designed for Maximum Efficiency

Automotive manufacturers often manage multiple programs and frequent tooling changes.

Modern Machinery's quick-change technology helps reduce setup time while improving consistency.

Lengthy tool changeovers can quickly reduce available production time and increase operating costs. Modern Machinery's integrated quick-change technologies simplify the transition during changeover, helping manufacturers spend less time on setup and more time producing quality parts. The result is greater flexibility, improved throughput, and more efficient use of every production shift.

Tool Change System

Semi-automated tool storage for up to three tools with motorized transfer. Benefits include:

  • Faster changeovers
  • Accurate tool positioning
  • Reduced manual lifting
  • Improved repeatability

Auto Connect Tool Utilities

Automatically connects: water, air, electrical, vacuum. Benefits include:

  • Eliminates manual hookups

  • Reduces setup errors

  • Saves valuable production time

Auto Tool Clamping

Automatically secures tooling. Benefits include:

  • Consistent clamping force

  • Faster setup

  • Improved operator safety

Auto Tool Identification

The machine recognizes each tool and automatically loads the correct processing parameters. Benefits include:

  • Eliminates programming errors

  • Faster startups

  • Repeatable production

  • Reduced operator involvement

Watch above video to see our Tool Transfer Cart.

Watch above video to see our Auto Tool Change.

Advanced Features That Improve Every Cycle

Every detail of an IMG or IMGL machine contributes to higher productivity.

Thoughtful machine design goes beyond production performance. Ergonomic access, precise heating control, and advanced vacuum technology work together to improve both operator experience and finished part quality. These engineering details help reduce fatigue, increase consistency, and support reliable production across demanding automotive applications.

Bottom Platen Tilt

Provides ergonomic access during the unloading of skins, formed shells, and substrate loading. Benefits include:

  • Easier operator access
  • Reduced fatigue
  • Improved safety
  • Faster loading

Tracking Bottom Oven

The oven follows the process precisely before moving away during forming. Benefits include:

  • Improved heating consistency
  • Better material control
  • Higher quality parts
  • Repeatable processing

Dual Vacuum Loops

Independent vacuum systems for both top and bottom platens. Benefits include:

  • Essential for IMGL processing
  • Improved lamination quality
  • Better pressure control
  • Consistent finished parts

Every Minute Saved Adds Production Capacity

Reducing changeover time is one of the fastest ways to improve manufacturing efficiency.

Modern Machinery combines multiple quick-change technologies into one integrated production system.

Quick change capabilities have become an important advantage for manufacturers managing multiple programs and shorter production runs. By automating traditionally manual tasks, Modern Machinery helps reduce setup time, improve process repeatability, and increase the overall productivity of each machine. Every minute saved during changeovers creates more opportunities for profitable production.

Quick Change Features

Provides ergonomic access during the unloading of skins, formed shells, and substrate loading. Benefits include:

  • On-the-Fly Sheet Loading
    Keep production running while replenishing material.
  • Motorized Clamp Frame
    Automatic adjustment between tools.
  • Auto Sheet Loader
    Consistent automated material loading.
  • Auto Connect Tool Utilities
    No manual connections required.
  • Auto Tool Clamping
    Secure tooling automatically.
  • Tool Change System
    Motorized tool transfer with positive locating.
  • Auto Tool Identification
    Automatic recipe selection for every tool.

The Result.

  • Reduced downtime
  • Faster production changeovers
  • Less operator involvement
  • Improved consistency
  • Higher machine utilization
  • Greater production flexibility

The MODERN Advantage

Modern Machinery's IMG and IMGL systems are an ideal solution for automotive interior manufacturing.

Our custom-engineered systems are designed to deliver:

  • Exceptional forming quality
  • Reliable production
  • Reduced downtime
  • Faster changeovers
  • Intelligent automation
  • Long-term reliability
  • Expert engineering support
  • Responsive service after installation

Whether you're launching a new vehicle program, replacing aging equipment, or improving an existing production line, Modern Machinery has the engineering expertise to build the right solution.

Our team works closely with customers from concept through installation and ongoing service to ensure every machine delivers lasting value.

Choosing the right thermoforming partner involves more than selecting a machine. It means working with a team that understands your manufacturing process, supports your production goals, and remains committed long after installation.

From initial engineering and machine design to service, upgrades, and technical support, Modern Machinery is dedicated to helping customers achieve long-term success with every system we build.

IMG Overall Machine

Let's Look at Your Current Setup.

Every minute of downtime impacts production schedules. Modern's automation helps manufacturers keep production moving.

Ready to Start Reducing Downtime?

Take the first step today.

“Modern Machinery consistently delivers outstanding support and valuable insights, not only for their own equipment but also for machines produced by other manufacturers. Their team is highly responsive, addressing issues promptly and making sure every task is completed with precision and care. This commitment to service excellence truly sets them apart in our industry.” 

Dennis Fall
Federal Foam Technologies

“My experience with Modern Machinery has been nothing but positive, from design changes during a demo, all the way to years after installation has been complete. The amount of support and knowledge from Modern Machinery is nothing short of extraordinary, and a major component in our production lines staying operational and running properly.”

Nik Rudd
Cadillac Products Automotive Company