With multi-component injection moulding, moulded parts composed of several components or colours are produced on a single machine. Usually, a pre-moulded part is produced from the first component in an initial process step, which is then encapsulated with other components.

Standard multi-component machines can be used for the following processes:

		Repositioning of the moulded part in the mould
		Rotation of the mould via an indexing unit
		Composite injection moulding

For special two-component injection moulding processes, the relevant equipment versions are available for the machines:

		interval injection moulding
		sandwich injection moulding
		marbling injection moulding

With this process, the pre-moulded part is injected in the first step. This is repositioned by means of a robotic system after opening of the mould and then encapsulated with a further component.

Once the pre-moulded part has been produced, the mould is rotated and a further component is injected.
It is not always possible or advantageous to turn the entire movable mould half. It is often sufficient to merely rotate one platen or one insert, and to allow the movable mould half to remain as such in a fixed position.
The platen or the insert is raised, rotated, and then lowered again by a shaft which is connected to the hydraulic ejector. If this rising and lowering motion cannot be used for the ejection of the finished part, a separate ejection stroke is also necessary. The machine must be equipped with an additional available core pull for this purpose.
Different moulds are used for two, three and four-component injection moulding.