Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and a process for producing moldings from expandable plastic particles, it being favorable for already pre-expanded plastic particles to be used. The invention is intended to propose possible ways of reducing the energy and water consumption. According to the invention, for this purpose the inside walling of a steam chamber is provided with a thermal insulation or a corresponding heat-insulating material is used as the chamber walling and, furthermore, ultrafine spraying heads are arranged on the rear-wall plates for cooling the mold and molding. The ultrafine spraying heads may also be led into the steam chamber through steam-chamber frames.