Elastically deformable nozzle for injection molding

Abstract

An injection molding machine is provided that includes a manifold for distributing plastic melt flow to one or more mold cavities. The manifold has a flow channel having an output orifice surrounded by a lower outside surface, and is expandable upon heating. The injection molding machine also includes a nozzle comprising a body mounted in a receiving aperture in a stationary housing aligned with a gate to a mold cavity, the body having a central bore for delivering plastic melt flow from the channel in the manifold to the mold cavity, the body having an upper surface for engaging with the lower surface of the manifold. The body has a lip member comprising an outer leg circumferentially spaced from an inner body section of the body, the outer leg having a surface mounted against a mounting surface of a stationary housing. The manifold is mounted adjacent to the stationary housing and the nozzle is mounted in or on the stationary housing such that the upper surface of the body of the nozzle faces the lower surface of the manifold for engagement therewith. The lower surface of the manifold engages the upper surface of the body of the nozzle under compression, the outer leg of the lip member being compressed by the compression between the engaged upper surface of the body and the lower surface of the manifold.