Abstract: A molding apparatus has a first top assembly which includes a first, a second, and a third top molding station; and a bottom assembly which includes a first, a second, and a third bottom molding station. The top and bottom assemblies may be repositioned relative to one another so that in a first configuration the first, second, and third top stations are engaged with the first, second, and third bottom stations; and in a second configuration the first top and second bottom stations are engaged, the second top and third bottom stations are engaged, and the third top and first bottom stations are engaged. Further disclosed is an injection molding process carried out utilizing the apparatus.

Abstract: An injection molding process for the manufacture of composite, molded, thermoplastic articles comprising an insert member contiguous with a second body of molded thermoplastic material, is carried out in a mold assembly comprising a core member and a cavity member engageable therewith. The core and cavity members cooperate to define a first molding station having a first cavity for molding an insert member, and a second molding station which is configured to receive and support an insert member therein, and to provide a second molding cavity contiguous with the insert member for molding a thermoplastic body contiguous with the insert. At the start of the process, an insert is supported in the second station, and thermoplastic materials are injected into the molding cavities in the first and second stations so as to mold an insert and a completed, composite member.