A molding machine, also known as an injection press, consists of two main parts: the injection unit and the clamping unit. Moulds can be fastened by injection machines in either a vertical or horizontal position, depending on the size or type of application required. A choice of cold or hot runner systems can also be selected for carrying the plastic into the mould cavities. Again, this will depend on the product being manufactured.

Molding machines form thermoplastic resin, thermoset polymers, or metal injection molding (MIM) compounds into finished shapes. Injection molding machines consist of a barrel and reciprocating screw assembly, an injection nozzle, and a hydraulic motor that feeds the molten plastic or metal mix into a mold. The molding machines then transport the molten material as it progresses through the feeding, compressing, degassing, melting, injection, and packing stages. Modern molding machines are controlled by computer systems that act upon information from sensors to control each action of the molding equipment, and to ensure consistent output and quality.

Injection molding is a technique used in the manufacturing of plastic products. Although it is a straight forward process there are many steps involved towards creating the finished product. Injection molding is a common manufacturing process used to create plastic products and materials. It involves inserting melted plastic into a mold cavity which has been designed into the required shape. Many of the everyday items we see around us have been manufactured in this way – from the plastic components used in our electrical gadgets to the plastic coverings on our household appliances, and from the plastic interiors of our cars to the screw-top plastic lids on our drinks bottles – just about everywhere you look you can see a plastic object that would have been manufactured using an injection mold technique.