Using machine components that are designed to manufacture micro parts and well proven standard technologies has resulted in a favorable means to produce moulded parts with very small shot weights.

The ever increasing need for precisely moulded parts with weights less than one milligram has required each step in the injection moulding process to adapt accordingly.

Consequently, the processing steps from feeding the granulate to shaping the outline of the part are accomplished today with a few, but highly functional components including the reciprocating screw.

Separating the plasticizing function and the metering allows increased metering accuracy and a more dynamic injection process. A critical point of micro injection moulding is the dwell time. Due to the low parts weights, injection volumes, and throughtput, the chance for thermal deterioration of the material is increased when using larger plasticizing units. The first in, first out principle, which is accomplished perfectly with a reciprocating screw, is less effective when using machines equipped with separate plasticizing and plunger injection units.