Abstract: A quick change system for standard mold bases in a molding machine includes an adapter frame mounted on the face of each platen of the press, each adapter frame having a U-shaped guide channel, and a support plate for supporting a mold base half for slideably engaging the channel. A coolant hookup manifold including first connectors is mounted on the adapter frame, and a second coolant hookup manifold including second connectors is mounted on the support plate. The first and second connectors are configured to automatically sealingly engage as the support plate and mold slide into engagement with the adapter frame.

Abstract: A knockout rod assembly is provided for activating an ejector plate in a mold base. The knockout rod assembly includes an ear plate adapted to attach to the back surface of an ejector half of a mold base. The ear plate has a pattern of apertures therein and at least one push rod is extended through the apertures in the ear plate and through the back of the mold base for attachment to the ejector plate. Also, at least one push/pull rod is extended through an aperture in the ear plate and the back of said mold base for attachment to said ejector plate, the push/pull rod including a locking surface at one end. A knockout rod is attached to the knockout rod assembly for moving the push rod and the ejector plate, and a push/pull knockout rod is attached to the knockout rod assembly for pushing and pulling the push/pull rod attached to the ejector plate. The push/pull knockout rod lockingly attaches to the locking member of the push/pull rod.

Abstract: A quick change system for standard mold bases in a molding machine. Each half of a mold base has a support plate attached to the back surface. An adapter frame is mounted on the face of each platen of the press. Each adapter frame has a U-shaped guide channel for receiving a support plate and supported mold base half. A T-shaped guide roller is positioned on each side of the U-shaped guide channel to facilitate entry of a support plate into the guide channels. Apertures are provided in each adapter frame plate for fasteners for attaching the adapter frame plates to the platens. A knockout rod assembly is provided for ejecting the finished molded part from the mold base.

Abstract: A method to facilitate the movement of heavy molds for use in an injection molding machine employing load bearing lugs on each mold half and a lifting bar which receives and supports the lugs and mold. In the method, the lifting tool is slid over the lugs. The tool and mold is then raised and lowered until the balance point is found. The lifting bar is then clamped in place on the lugs so that the mold can be safely raised and inserted into an injection molding machine. The balanced mold can be easily moved in and out of the guide rails of the injection molding machine since it is presented as a balanced load with no tendency to bind in the machine.

Abstract: A die frame assembly wherein an ejector plate having ejector pins extending therefrom is reciprocally mounted on support posts in the frame assembly through replaceable and lubricated bushings on the ejector plate. The support posts extend between the base or clamping plate and the central sprue section of the frame for rigid support thereof. The support posts are desirably hardened or case-hardened for long wearing.