Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling an injection process in cold-chamber die-casting machines which work on a three-phase system whereby an automatic initiation of the third phase without delay is possible. Beginning with the plunger of the apparatus in a certain starting position, the time is measured which elapses until a pressure in a working cylinder ahead of the plunger has reached a predetermined value. The time delay of the valve system which releases the pressure medium feed in the third phase is subtracted from the time measured so as to arrive at a time differential. At the end of the time differential, which elapses when the injection process begins with the plunger in its original or starting position, serves as a starting signal to trigger the valve system.