Abstract: Three molds are formed with bayonet-type couplings adapted to interlock releasably with bayonet-type sockets in a holding plate to enable the molds to be quickly attached to and released from the holding plate. A key fits releasably into keyways in the molds and holds all three molds against turning after the molds have been attached to the holding plate.

Abstract: Various forms of apparatus are described for manufacturing half seal units by injection molding in specially constructed molds. The apparatus was developed in response to a need for producing precision parts, particularly so-called insert molded parts containing integral stiffening members surrounded by an elastomeric seal body. Seals of this type are mated upon installation in position of use to form a unitary seal which provides primary and secondary seals as well as a seal at the split line where the two half seals are joined. One described molding apparatus includes means adapted for formation of a mold cavity from horizontally movable, cam actuated mold parts wherein finished so-called piece parts are removed after molding by an axial movement with a specially constructed stripper assembly.

Abstract: A distributing head is attached to the lower end of the barrel of a reciprocating screw injector and carries three injection nozzles which inject molding material into three mold cavities during each injection cycle. The nozzles are supported within sleeves which are surrounded by tubular jackets adapted to receive a heat exchange liquid, the liquid being circulated successively through successive ones of the jackets.

Abstract: Molding units each having upper and lower molds are indexed through an injection station and then into an opening station. At the opening station, the lower mold of each unit first is opened and then is closed relative to the upper mold, the opening and closing of the lower mold being effected by an hydraulically actuated puller block adapted to be moved between raised and lowered positions. A shiftable yoke holds the puller block in a precisely established intermediate position while the molding units are being indexed into and out of the opening station.

Abstract: A press and vacuum box combination for manufacturing articles from fluent, curable or hardenable material within a vacuum atmosphere, especially designed to provide access to the mold parts, optimum article handling and improved safety. The press has side frame members, a cross head lying in a horizontal plane and extending between the side frame members, an axially reciprocable ram movable between raised and lowered positions, a platen associated with the cross head and a platen associated with the ram. A mold part is associated with each of said platens, and the mold parts are arranged for movement between opened and closed positions. In the closed position, the mold parts define at least one cavity having the shape of an article to be molded in the press. One of the platens has means at one edge thereof for hingedly mounting the platen for movement between raised and lowered positions with respect to the cross head. Means are associated with the cross head for supporting the hinged mounting means.