Abstract: A method of lubricating a lubricant requiring portion of a die casting machine includes inserting a unitized lubricant element including flowable lubricant into a cylinder when an associated ram is retracted and advancing the ram against the lubricant element to squeeze the element against a partially closed end of the cylinder and force the lubricant to flow through a restricted passage to the portion to be lubricated. A metal injecting shot sleeve and plunger may act as the cylinder and ram for lubricant delivery prior to the introduction of molten casting metal where the die cavity is to be lubricated but provision of a separate cylinder and ram apparatus is preferred. Various forms of unitized lubricant elements with and without containers and examples of lubricant delivery apparatus are disclosed.

Abstract: Self-contained lubricant delivery apparatus for crushing unitized lubricant elements and delivering flowable lubricant from the crushed elements to lubricant requiring portions of a die casting machine. The apparatus includes a cylinder body defining a delivery cylinder closable by an end wall of a movable reaction body and which is opened by an actuating cylinder for insertion of an element of flowable lubricant in a crushable container or formed as a pellet. When the delivery cylinder is closed, a ram in the cylinder crushes the lubricant element against the end wall, forcing the lubricant through a restricted passage and hydraulic conduit to the lubricant requiring portion of the die casting machine.

Abstract: Lubricant delivery apparatus for crushing unitized lubricant elements and delivering flowable lubricant from the crushed elements to a die casting machine die cavity. The apparatus includes a delivery cylinder on or in one die which opens with the dies for insertion of an element of flowable lubricant in a crushable container or formed as a pellet. When the dies are closed, a ram in the cylinder crushes the lubricant element against a wall on or in the other die, forcing the lubricant through a restricted passage between the dies and into the die cavity. In alternative embodiments, the delivery cylinder is disposed generally parallel with or perpendicular to the parting line of the pair of dies.