Identity Solutions

process
Aluminum in-mold and brushed aluminum
In-mold decorated polycarbonate

application
Whirlpool refrigerator

challenge
•Integrate aluminum and plastic trim into one component
•Expand use of metal trim to include back wall of ice and water dispenser

solution
Previous Whirlpool ice and water dispensers used the aluminum in-mold process to add a stainless steel look to the frame of the dispenser.  This generation pushes the use of metal in the design further incorporating aluminum trim into the back wall of the dispenser, the drip tray and spigot.  The metal surface is desirable not only for its look but for the cool touch it offers.  Consumers see and feel an authentic metal surface.  The designers and engineers at Whirlpool also emphasized the need for a smooth transition from the plastic component to the metal trim in the design.  The plastic overlay uses the in-mold decoration (IMD) process to create a functional overlay with backlit features.

process
Screen print and emboss polycarbonate

application
Whirlpool trash compactor

challenge
•Integrate dimensional nameplate into plastic overlay 

solution
The Whirlpool logo and graphic overlay are one part reducing the number of assembly operations on the final product.  Mirror inks are screen printed on polycarbonate creating a bright accent on the Whirlpool logo.  A sharp emboss gives the illusion the logo is a separate nameplate attached to the overlay.  All decoration of the overlay is done on the backside (or second surface) of the plastic.  The clear substrate protects the image from abrasion and chemicals.

process
Aluminum in-mold and brushed aluminum

application
Whirlpool Refrigerator

challenge
· Upgrade overall look of product by replacing plastic trim with metal
· Match stainless steel finish on aluminum

solution
Aluminum in-mold was required on the trim piece to maintain the sharp edges and lines of the design. The stainless steel look was achieved with a coarse brush and transparent tint of color on aluminum. The aluminum trim continues the contemporary look and feel of stainless steel across the refrigerator. Ability to completely change the look economically by updating the finish allows the same trim piece to be used across different models.

application
Electrolux Washer & Dryer

challenge
• High end aluminum trim
• Use trim to differentiate multiple brands

solution
Northern Engraving provided tooling expertise critical to the engineering of the appliance trim pieces for form and fit. The versatility and flexibility of aluminum decorating options provided a variety of choices for multiple looks in high end trim. A brushed and tinted finish and metallic finishes were chosen for cost effective differentiation between product lines.