Build an Injection Molding Machine From a Cheap Pneumatic Press

Look I'm using the ubiquitous "person with white outline" thumbnail!

I got a cheap imported 500kg pneumatic punch press and converted it to do injection molding. The heating chamber came from @BusterBeagle3D's V2 Injection Molding machine. The press provides a ridged frame, the pneumatic cylinder, an electronic controller, solenoid valve, regulator, plumbing, etc.

All I had to do was add a heating chamber and a clamping system for the dies.

Final shot size is 13grams (1 cubic inch) and it's delivered at up to 2500 psi.
A similar AB-100 Injection molding machine has a 6g shot size at 6333 psi.

Here's a detailed cost breakdown and source links for various parts (including tax and shipping!)

Press: $377.34
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.htm....l?_from=R40&_trk
(Seen as low as $310)

Heating Chamber: $190.41
https://busterbeagle3d.square.....site/product/injecti

Heater Bands: $20.39
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DGVYC8G

2 Adjustable Exhaust Mufflers $4
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07W5QXSWK

Thermostat: $28.79
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TDG5ZVG/

C-Clamp: $85.20
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.htm....l?_nkw=wilton+2fc+cl

Metal: $50
Maybe another $40 in springs and fasteners.

Total price: $798

3D Printed parts are available at:
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5264980

Here's the entire design including all the history:
Fusion File is at https://a360.co/36Ne7F1

I had to put washers at the top of the spacer rods, you might want to go with the next size up rod instead. Just so the contact with the bottom of the piston casting is larger.

I also have designs for a push button pellet feeder here:
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5332438