Abstract: A module or unit manufactured allowing simplified installation of a lifter rod assembly of a core lifter apparatus for a mold for molding plastic parts. In some embodiments, a slide is movably mounted with respect to a retainer and/or a gib, so that the retainer attached to the lifter rod can be moved in a linear direction and a rotational direction to provide free motion and reduce wear and breakage due to uneven ejector plate movement during production cycling of the mold. In some embodiments, the slide has one or more spring-loaded devices that hold the retainer in a particular position with respect to the slide, positioned to receive the lifter rod during mold assembly. In some embodiments, the retainer accommodates connections and coiled hoses for delivering cooling fluid to an internally cooled lifter rod.

Abstract: A module or unit manufactured allowing simplified installation of a lifter rod assembly of a core lifter apparatus for a mold for molding plastic parts. In some embodiments, a slide is movably mounted with respect to a retainer and/or a gib, so that the retainer attached to the lifter rod can be moved in a linear direction and a rotational direction to provide free motion and reduce wear and breakage due to uneven ejector plate movement during production cycling of the mold. In some embodiments, the slide has one or more spring-loaded devices that hold the retainer in a particular position with respect to the slide, positioned to receive the lifter rod during mold assembly. In some embodiments, the retainer accommodates connections and coiled hoses for delivering cooling fluid to an internally cooled lifter rod.

Abstract: An alignment interlock for reciprocating tooling that includes a female lock having a central engagement area and a corresponding male lock having a profile shaped to matingly engage with the central engagement area. A plurality of particle rings are preferably formed on an engagement surface of the profile and an engagement ramp having a polished, radiused lead-in is preferably formed at a leading edge of the profile.

Abstract: An alignment interlock for reciprocating tooling that includes a female lock having a central engagement area and a corresponding male lock having a profile shaped to matingly engage with the central engagement area. A plurality of particle rings are preferably formed on an engagement surface of the profile and an engagement ramp having a polished, radiused lead-in is preferably formed at a leading edge of the profile.

Abstract: A locking device for a mold including more than one movable plate. A spring-biased wedge block includes a first side wall and an opposing second side wall that is beveled with respect to the first side wall. A latch bar includes an inclined latch end for engaging with the second side wall of the wedge block. A cam bar includes a cam end for engaging with the first side wall of the wedge block. At least one of the wedge block, the latch bar or the cam bar is formed of a 4340 steel alloy, and at least one of the latch end, the cam end, or the wedge block second side wall is nitrided or nitride coated.

Abstract: A locking device for a mold including more than one movable plate. A spring-biased wedge block includes a first side wall and an opposing second side wall that is beveled with respect to the first side wall. A latch bar includes an inclined latch end for engaging with the second side wall of the wedge block. A cam bar includes a cam end for engaging with the first side wall of the wedge block. At least one of the wedge block, the latch bar or the cam bar is formed of a 4340 steel alloy, and at least one of the latch end, the cam end, or the wedge block second side wall is nitrided or nitride coated.