Abstract: A molding machine and associated process offers significantly reduced cycle time and increases production output. In one embodiment, an injection molding machine includes a rotatable turret block rotatable on an axis for rotating a plurality of movable platens thereof into alignment with a stationary platen. Each of the movable platens include at least one which can be mated with a die on the stationary platen for molding a molded article. The machine may include multiple, opposed stationary platens for alternately mating with the moveable platens. The rotatable turret significantly reduces cycle time and increases production output without an increase in required floor space.

Abstract: The current invention replaces the toggle clamping mechanism of known die casting machines with a hydraulic clamping mechanism. Advantageously, the machine with hydraulic clamps requires less space than the machines utilizing toggle clamping mechanisms. The machine of this invention has a significantly smaller footprint, takes up less space and is about 30% shorter than machines with toggle clamps. The hydraulic clamping mechanism of the current invention not only decreases the size of the casting machine, but also produces uniform clamping force. The hydraulic clamp according to one presently preferred embodiment of this invention is a hydro-mechanical clamp.