Abstract:
Lightweight part retention apparatus is arranged on a removal tool plate. A low pressure air supply is supplied to the apparatus to induce an area of reduced pressure in a channel formed in a passage therein, the reduced pressure being formed by a jet pump action within the channel. The reduced pressure draws a part to be removed from a mold or the like into the apparatus and retains it therein until a separate device removes it and/or the air supply is interrupted. Due to the relatively low mass of the retention apparatus, the tool plate and retention apparatus, with the molded part retained therein, can then be rapidly withdrawn from the open mold to permit early closing of the mold so that a new molding cycle may begin.