Abstract: A rapid resin or pitch transfer molding apparatus, and a method of using it. The apparatus of this invention comprises: means for melting and conveying a resin or pitch; a mold (3) arranged so that melted resin or pitch is conveyed from the melting and conveying means into an annular mold cavity (1, 35) within an insert (2) in the molding apparatus, wherein said insert comprises means (6, 7, 8, 9, 86) for effecting flow of the resin or pitch from the top (87) and bottom (85) of the mold cavity (1, 35) to vents (22, 25, 81) located in the center of, at the top and/or bottom of, and/or annularly around the mold cavity (1, 35); and means disposed at the mold to constrain the mold during supply of the resin or pitch into the mold.