Abstract: Apparatus for unit cavity and multi-cavity, multi-layer injection molding and injection blow molding machines are provided, which, in preferred embodiments, include:Coinjection nozzle means, each for plural polymers, valve means for each nozzle, the valve means being adapted to move through a nozzle central channel to clear the nozzle channel of melt, a feed-block for each nozzle, polymer melt splitters, drive means for each valve means, a free floating runner system and a force compensation system to provide an effective pressure seal between the nozzles and the cavity block.

Abstract: Elongated closed bottom shells (cans) are produced in the preferred manner by a double-acting punch body arranged on a horizontal axis and reciprocated between opposed die stations at a substantially constant velocity by a hydraulic force alternately applied to opposite sides of a ram on the punch body; blanks (of cup form) are fed to the die stations at times when the punch body dwells at the end of a stroke. Preferably the applied force is such that punch body attains peak (maximum) velocity before the punch encounters a cup centered at the die station; cup feed, cup positioning, punch body travel and formation of a shell of correct length are monitored (sensed) and in the event a programmed condition of machine function or production criterion is sensed as not satisfied, the machine is stopped.