Abstract:
A collar for reducing or eliminating leakage between components that moves with respect to each other in the field of injection molding. The collar has an outer portion for receiving an inner portion. The outer portion has a tapered, partial spherical, concave, or convex surface on its inside diameter, and the inner portion has a tapered or partial spherical, convex, or concave surface on its outside diameter. In the preferred embodiment, the inner portion of the collar is operatively assembled into a cavity of the outer portion of the collar, such that the tapered surface of the inner portion is slidably mounted to the tapered surface of the outer portion. The collar is operatively mounted around the outside diameter or circumference of, preferably, a cylindrical device and between two components that move with respect to each other.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention generally relates to a device for reducing or eliminating leakage and more particularly to a device for reducing or eliminating leakage between components that move with respect to each other in the field of injection molding. 
     DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART 
     In the field of injection molding, it is common to have components that move (e.g., slide, rotate, etc.) with respect to each other while still remaining in an assembled configuration. The challenge with this type of design is facilitating movement while precluding leakage. For example, a first part  24  of a split sprue bar  10  is shown in  FIG. 1 . The first part  24  of the split sprue bar  10  has a sliding nozzle  12  and a sprue bushing  14  as is known to those having ordinary skill in the art. In this design, the sliding nozzle  12  moves axially and along the sprue bushing  14 . To allow the sliding nozzle  12  to move along the sprue bushing  14 , a clearance  16  is provided between a contacting surface  18  of the sliding nozzle  12  and a contacting surface  20  of the sprue bushing  14 . However, there are problems and disadvantages associated with providing the clearance  16  between these and other components to allow for movement in the injection molding field. Because of the significant injection pressure in the passageways  22  of the split sprue bar  10 , leakage or weepage occurs between the contacting surfaces  18 ,  20  of the sliding nozzle  12  and the sprue bushing  14 , respectively, or through the clearance  16  (see arrow A). This problem or disadvantage with the prior art devices is magnified when resins having lower viscosity are used in the injection molding process, and/or with higher pressure. 
     The present invention is directed to overcoming one or more of the disadvantages or problems set forth above. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a collar for reducing or eliminating leakage between components, which move with respect to each other in the field of injection molding. 
     In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a split sprue bar having springs, discs, cylinders, or the like (hereinafter “springs”) to create an axial force AF between a nozzle and a sprue. The deflection of the springs creates the load or axial force AF. A collar is incorporated between the sprue and the nozzle. The collar is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion of the collar forcing the inner portion tightly into engagement with the nozzle, thereby sealing off a clearance or an area adjacent the clearance where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     In still another aspect, the present invention is directed to stack platen assembly having springs to create an axial force AF between a nozzle and a nozzle bushing. The deflection of the springs creates the load or axial force AF. A collar is incorporated between the nozzle bushing and the nozzle. The collar is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF. This radial force RF acts on inner portion of the collar forcing the inner portion tightly into engagement with the nozzle, thereby sealing off an area adjacent the clearance where leakage of weepage may occur. 
     In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to an offset stack sprue bar in engagement with a sprue bushing. The springs are used to create an axial force AF between a nozzle and a bushing. The deflection of the springs creates the load or axial force AF. The collar is incorporated between the bushing and the nozzle. The collar is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion of the collar forcing the inner portion tightly into engagement with the nozzle, thereby sealing off an area adjacent the clearance where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     In a further aspect, the present invention is directed to a telescoping manifold assembly having a tubular manifold slidably received by a drop manifold. The springs are used to create an axial force AF between the tubular manifold and the drop manifold. The deflection of the springs creates the load or axial force AF. The collar is incorporated between the tubular manifold and the drop manifold. The collar is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion of the collar forcing the inner portion tightly into engagement with the tubular manifold, thereby sealing off an area adjacent the clearance where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to an anti-drool apparatus having a nozzle slidably received by a bushing. The springs are used to create an axial force AF on the collars. The deflection of the springs creates the load or axial force AF. The collar is incorporated between the nozzle and the bushing. The collar is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion of the collar forcing the inner portion tightly into engagement with the nozzle, thereby sealing off an area adjacent the clearance where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     In still yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a linear shut-off apparatus having a rod for moving a pin via a pin and bracket assembly. The pin is slidably received by a shut-off assembly. The collar is incorporated between the pin and the shut-off assembly. The springs are used to create an axial force AF on the collar. The deflection of the springs creates the load or axial force AF. The collar is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion of the collar forcing the inner portion tightly into engagement with the pin, thereby sealing off an area adjacent the clearance where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a rotary shut-off apparatus having a rotational bracket for moving or rotating a pin. The pin is rotatably received by a shut-off assembly. The collar is incorporated between the pin and the shut-off assembly. The springs are used to create an axial force AF on the collar. The deflection of the springs creates the load or axial force AF. The collar is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion of the collar forcing the inner portion tightly into engagement with the pin, thereby sealing off an area adjacent the clearance where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     The above aspects are merely illustrative and should not be construed as all-inclusive. The aspects should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. The aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent, as it becomes better understood from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       For the purpose of illustrating the invention, the drawings show a form of the invention that is presently preferred. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown in the drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a split sprue bar that is generally known in the prior art; 
         FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view of a split sprue bar of a hot runner in engagement with each other and in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a split sprue bar; 
         FIG. 4   a  is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a collar in a disassembled configuration according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 4   b  is an exploded view and a perspective view of the collar shown in  FIG. 4   a  and in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a first alternative embodiment of the split sprue bar according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a second alternative embodiment of the split sprue bar according to the present invention 
         FIG. 7  is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a third alternative embodiment of the split sprue bar according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a fourth alternative embodiment of the split sprue bar according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a partial cross-sectional view of an offset stack platen; 
         FIG. 10  is a partial cross-sectional view of a stack platen assembly of  FIG. 9  but in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional view of an offset stack sprue bar of  FIG. 9  but in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional view of a telescoping manifold in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  is a cross-sectional view of an anti-drool apparatus in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view of a linear shut-off apparatus in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 15  is a cross-sectional view of a rotary shut-off apparatus in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 16  is a cross-sectional view of a nozzle assembly in accordance with the present invention; and 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of the split sprue bar of  FIG. 5  but with the collar in an alternative embodiment according to the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring now to the drawings and initially to  FIG. 2 , which illustrates a split sprue bar or cross over nozzle  100  (hereinafter “split sprue bar”) in accordance with the present invention. The split sprue bar  100  is commonly used in melt transfer systems such as in multiple-level stack mold systems (not shown). The split sprue bar  100  of the multiple-level stack mold system must be able to transfer molten material across an interface of a level during mold cavity loading or filling while also being capable of separating into sections to allow mold separation during mold opening. Stack mold systems are generally known in the prior art and no further discussion is required. U.S. Pat. No. 5,370,523 to Kushnir describes a known multiple-level stack mold system and is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     The split sprue bar  100  has two parts  102 ,  104 , which when joined define a passageway  106  that extends across an interface  108 . In the embodiment shown, the flow of molten material travels from right to left from the passageway  106  of a first part  102  to the passageway  106  of a second part  104  during mold cavity (not shown) loading or filling. After filling but before mold separation, valve stems  110 ,  112  of the first part  102  and the second part  104 , respectively, are moved axially and towards each other to shutoff the flow of molten material across the interface  108 . Thereafter, the first and/or second parts  102 ,  104  are axially separated during mold separation for part ejection. To repeat the mold cavity filling operation, the first and/or second parts  102 ,  104  are brought into engagement by axially moving one or both of the two parts  102 ,  104  into engagement. The movement of the first part  102  or the second part  104 , or both to the engagement position is not meant to be limiting; however, for explanation purposes, the embodiments shown in the figures will be described according to how they operate. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , the second part  104  is moved axially into engagement with the first part  102 , and the valve stems  110 ,  112  are retracted or moved axially away from each other, thereby allowing the flow of molten material through the passageway  106  and across the interface  108 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3  which shows a slight variation in design to that shown in  FIG. 2 , the split sprue bar  100  is shown in the engagement and mold filling positions. Springs or discs  114  (hereinafter “springs”) are used to create an axial force AF between a nozzle  118  and a sprue  120 . Specifically, the nozzle  118  is retained with the spare  120  by a cap  804 , which is fastened to the sprue  120  with screws  806 . The tightening of the screws  806  causes the springs  114  to partially compress when the mold is the open position so that the nozzle  118  is not loose. In alternative embodiments, the springs  114  may be replaced with a cylinder, bolt, or threads. The deflection of the springs  114  or initial pre-compression of the springs  114  creates the load or axial force AF. In addition, when the mold is closed and the two parts  102 ,  104  of the split sprue bar  100  are brought together, clamp and injection forces are applied causing a sealing force to be applied between The nozzle  118  and the sprue  120 , thereby further compressing the springs  114  and increasing the AF. To accommodate this axial force AF, an outer surface  124  of the nozzle  118  slides or moves along an inner surface  126  of the sprue  120 . In order to facilitate or allow the nozzle  118  to be in sliding engagement with the sprue  120 , a clearance  122  is provided between the outer surface  124  of the nozzle  118  and the inner surface  126  of the sprue  120 . The clearance  122  is not limited to an air gap between parts. The clearance  122  can include reduced forces between parts, wherein molten material may be forced through the clearance  122  due to the pressure of the molten material. To avoid leakage or weepage from exiting the clearance  122 , a collar  128  is incorporated between a portion of the sprue  120  and a portion of the nozzle  118 . The collar  128  is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF as will be explained in more detail hereinafter. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion  130  of the collar  128  forcing the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  118 , thereby sealing off the clearance  122  and/or an area  140  adjacent the clearance  122  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4   a  and  4   b , the collar  128  has an outer portion  132  for receiving the inner portion  130 . The outer portion  132  has a tapered surface  134  on its inside diameter. The inner portion  130  has a complementary tapered surface  136  on its outside diameter. In an alternative embodiment, only one of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  135  has a taper. Angles of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  are determined based on the diameter or size of the collar  128  and the force applied by the springs  114 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 , the spring force was determined to be 8,000 pounds thus the outside diameter of the collar  128  was calculated to preferably be 65 millimeters and the angle of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  were calculated to preferably be 30 degrees from an axial centerline of thee collar  128 . The inner portion  130  of the collar  128  is operatively assembled into a cavity  138  of the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 , such that the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  is slidably mounted to the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132 . The collar  128  is operatively mounted around the outside diameter or circumference of the nozzle  118  and between the sprue  120  and springs  114 . 
     In operation and with reference to  FIG. 3 , when the nozzle  118  of the second part  104  is brought into engagement with the nozzle  116  of the first part  102 , the axial force AF created by the initial pre-compression of the springs  114  is increased. When the axial force AF, created by the pre-compression of the springs  114  and the engagement of the two parts  102 ,  104 , is received by the outer portion  132 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  118  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer and inner portions  130 ,  132 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  radially into the nozzle  118 , thereby sealing off the area  140  adjacent the clearance  122  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5  which illustrates a first alternative embodiment of the present invention. The second part  104  of the split sprue bar  100  is shown with the springs  114  operatively mounted between the collar  128  and a tip region  800 . In this embodiment, additional springs are incorporated into the design and a heater  144  is in contact with the sprue  120  and not the nozzle  118 . In this first alternative embodiment, the collar  128  operates as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 3 . The axial force AF, created by the springs  114  and the engagement of the second part  104  with the first part  102  of the split sprue bar  100 , is received by the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 . When the axial force AF is received by the outer portion  132 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  118  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer and inner portions  130 ,  132 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  radially into the nozzle  118 , thereby sealing off the area  140  adjacent the clearance  122  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6  which illustrates a second alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the inner portion  130  having the tapered surface  136  is modified such that the inner portion  130  having the tapered surface  136  is integral with or part of the sprue  120 . In addition, additional springs are incorporated into the design and as compared with the design shown in  FIG. 3 . The axial force AF, created by the pre-compression of the springs  114  and the engagement of the second part  104  with the first part  102  of the split sprue bar  100 , is received by the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 . When the axial force AF is received by the outer portion  132 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  or a first end  142  of the sprue  120  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  118  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer portion  132  and the first end  142  of the sprue  120 , which serves as the inner portion  130  in this embodiment. As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the first end  142  of the sprue  120  radially into the nozzle  118 , thereby sealing off the clearance  122  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 7  which illustrates a third alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the inner portion  130  has two tapered surfaces  136   a ,  136   b , and one of the tapered surfaces  136   a ,  136   b  interfaces with the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132 , and the other tapered surface  136   a ,  136   b  interfaces with a tapered end  146  of the sprue  120 . In addition, additional springs are incorporated into the design and the heater  144  is in contact with the sprue  120  as compared to the design shown in  FIG. 3 . The axial force AF, created by the springs  114  and the engagement of the second part  104  with the first part  102  of the split sprue bar  100 , is received by the springs  114  and the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 . When the axial force AF is received by the outer portion  132 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement between the nozzle  118  and the tapered end  146  of the sprue  120  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136   a ,  136   b  of the outer portion  132  and the inner portion  130 , and the tapered end  146  of the sprue  120 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  between the nozzle  118  and the sprue  120 , thereby sealing off the area  140  adjacent the clearance  122  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8  which illustrates a fourth alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the inner portion  130  having the tapered surface  136  has a threaded portion  148  that threads to mating threads  150  on the sprue  120 . This design allows for efficient replacement of the inner portion  130 . The axial force AF, created by the springs  114  and the engagement of the second part  104  with the first part  102  of the split sprue bar  100 , is received by the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 . When the axial force AF is received by the outer portion  132 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  118  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer portion  132  and the inner portion  130 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  radially into the nozzle  118 , thereby sealing off the area  140  adjacent the clearance  122  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , an offset stack platen  200  is shown without the collar  128  incorporated therein. The general operation and design of the offset stack platen  200  is generally known and no further explanation is required for those having ordinary skill in the art. The offset stack platen  200  has a stack platen assembly  202  and offset stack sprue bar  204 . Similar to the split sprue bar  100 , the offset stack platen  200  is designed to transfer molten material across at least one interface  206  during mold cavity loading or filling while also being capable of separating into sections to allow mold separation during mold opening. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 10  which illustrates a portion of the stack platen assembly  202  in accordance with the present invention. The stack platen assembly  202  is engaged by a sprue bushing manifold  220  defining a passageway  222  across at at least one interface  206 . The stack platen assembly  202  is symmetrical thus only a left side of the stack platen assembly  202  is shown for clarity; however, the present invention may also be incorporated into a right side of the stack platen assembly  202 . Springs or discs  208  (hereinafter “springs”) are used to create an axial force AF between a nozzle  210  and a nozzle bushing  212 . In alternative embodiments, the springs  208  may be replaced with a cylinder, bolt, or threads. The deflection of the springs  208  creates the load or axial force AF. To accommodate this axial force AF, an outer surface  214  of the nozzle  210  slides or moves along an inner surface  216  of the nozzle bushing  212 . In order to facilitate or allow the nozzle  210  to be in sliding engagement with the nozzle bushing  212 , a clearance  218  is provided between the outer surface  214  of the nozzle  210  and the inner surface  216  of the nozzle bushing  212 . To avoid leakage or weepage from exiting the clearance  218 , the collar  128  is incorporated between a portion of the nozzle bushing  212  and a portion of the nozzle  210 . The collar  128  is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF as was explained in detail with regard to the split sprue bar  100 . This radial force RF acts on an inner portion  130  of the collar  128  forcing the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  210 , thereby sealing off an area  140  adjacent the clearance  218  where leakage or weepage may occur. Specifically, when the axial force AF created by the springs  208  and the axial force AF created from engagement of the sprue bushing manifold  220  and the stack platen assembly  202  are received by the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  210  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer and inner portions  130 ,  132 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  radially into the nozzle  210 , thereby sealing off the area  140  adjacent the clearance  218  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11  which illustrates the offset stack sprue bar  204  in accordance with the present invention. The offset stack sprue bar  204  engages a sprue bushing  224  defining a passageway  226  across at at least one interface  206  during loading or filling of the mold cavity as is shown in  FIG. 11  and axially separates from the sprue bushing  224  during mold separation for part ejection. The springs  208  are used to create an axial force AF between a nozzle  230  and a bushing  228 . The deflection of the springs  208  creates the load or axial force AF. To accommodate this axial force AF, an outer surface  232  of the nozzle  230  slides or moves along an inner surface  234  of the bushing  228 . In order to facilitate or allow the nozzle  230  to be in sliding engagement with the bushing  228 , a clearance  236  is provided between the outer surface  232  of the nozzle  230  and the inner surface  234  of the bushing  228 . To avoid leakage or weepage from exiting the clearance  236 , the collar  128  is incorporated between a portion of the bushing  228  and a portion of the nozzle  230 . The collar  128  is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF as was previously explained in detail. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion  130  of the collar  128  forcing the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  230 , thereby sealing off an area  140  adjacent the clearance  236  where leakage or weepage may occur. Specifically, when the axial force AF created by the springs  208  and the axial force AF created from engagement of the sprue bushing  224  and the offset stack sprue bar  204  are received by the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  230  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer and inner portions  130 ,  132 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  radially into the nozzle  230 , thereby sealing off the area  140  adjacent the clearance  236  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 12  which illustrates a telescoping manifold assembly  300  in accordance with the present invention. The telescoping manifold assembly  300  includes a tubular manifold  302  slidably received by a drop manifold  304 . A passageway  306  for receiving molten material runs through the tubular manifold  302  and to the drop manifold  304  and also redirects the molten material therefrom. The springs  208  are used to create an axial force AF between the tubular manifold  302  and the drop manifold  304 . The deflection of the springs  208  creates the load or axial force AF. To accommodate this axial force AF, an outer surface  308  of the tubular manifold  302  slides or moves along an inner surface  310  of the drop manifold  304 . In order to facilitate or allow the tubular manifold  302  to be in sliding engagement with the drop manifold  304 , a clearance  312  is provided between the outer surface  308  of the tubular manifold  302  and the inner surface  310  of the drop manifold  304 . To avoid leakage or weepage from exiting the clearance  312 , the collar  128  is incorporated between at least a portion of the tubular manifold  302  and at least a portion of the drop manifold  304 . The collar  128  is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF as was explained in detail previously. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion  130  of the collar  128  forcing the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the tubular manifold  302 , thereby sealing off an area  140  adjacent the clearance  312  where leakage or weepage may occur. Specifically, when the axial force AF created by the springs  208  is received by the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the tubular manifold  302  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer and inner portions  130 ,  132 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  radially into the tubular manifold  302 , thereby sealing off the area  140  adjacent the clearance  312  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 13  which illustrates an anti-drool apparatus  400  in accordance with the present invention. The anti-drool apparatus  400  includes a nozzle  402  slidably received by a bushing  404 . A passageway  406  runs axially through the nozzle  402  and the bushing  404 . The springs  208  are used to create an axial force AF between the nozzle  402  and the bushing  404 . The deflection of the springs  208  creates the load or axial force AF. To accommodate this axial force AF, an outer surface  408  of the nozzle  402  slides or moves along an inner surface  410  of the bushing  404 . In order to facilitate or allow the nozzle  402  to be in sliding engagement with the bushing  404 , a clearance  412  is provided between the outer surface  408  of the nozzle  402  and the inner surface  410  of the bushing  404 . To avoid leakage or weepage from exiting the clearance  412 , the collar  128  is incorporated between at least a portion of the nozzle  402  and at least a portion of the bushing  404 . The collar  128  is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF as was explained in detail previously. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion  130  of the collar  128  forcing the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  402 , thereby sealing off an area  140  adjacent the clearance  412  where leakage or weepage may occur. Specifically, when the axial force AF created by the springs  208  is received by the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  402  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer and inner portions  130 ,  132 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  radially into the nozzle  402 , thereby sealing off the area  140  adjacent the clearance  412  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 14  which illustrates a linear shut-off apparatus  500  in accordance with the present invention. The linear shut-off apparatus  500  has a rod  514  for moving a pin  502  via a hinge pin and bracket assembly  516 . The pin  502  has a bore  518  through it perpendicular to its longitudinal axis for allowing molten material to pass therethrough as is shown in  FIG. 14 . The pin  502  is slidably received by a shut-off assembly  504 . A passageway  506  in the shut-off assembly  504  runs axially to the bore  518  in the opened or fill position as is shown in  FIG. 14  to allow molten material to pass through the passageway  506  and the bore  518  when the passageway  506  and the bore  518  are in axial alignment. However, when the rod  514  is moved, it moves pin  502  via the hinge pin and bracket assembly  516  to cause the bore  518  to move out of axial alignment with the passageway  506 , and the pin  502  blocks the molten material from passing through because the bore  518  is not in axial alignment with the passageway  506 . As can be appreciated, the rod  514  moves back-and-forth moving the bore  518  into and out of axial alignment with the passageway  506 . This allows and precludes molten material from passing. In order to facilitate or allow the pin  502  to be in sliding engagement with the shut-off assembly  504 , a clearance  512  is provided between the outer surface  508  of the pin  502  and the inner surface  510  of the shut-off assembly  504 . To avoid leakage or weepage from exiting the clearance  512 , the collar  128  is incorporated between a portion of the pin  502  and a portion of the shut-off assembly  504 . The springs  208  are used to create an axial force AF on the collar  128 . The deflection of the springs  208  creates the load or axial force AF. The collar  128  is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF as was explained in detail previously. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion  130  of the collar  128  forcing the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the pin  502 , thereby sealing off an area  140  adjacent the clearance  512  where leakage or weepage may occur. Specifically, when the axial force AF created by the springs  208  is received by the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the pin  502  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer and inner portions  130 ,  132 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  radially into the pin  502 , thereby sealing off the area  140  adjacent the clearance  512  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 15  which illustrates a rotary shut-off apparatus  600  in accordance with the present invention. The rotary shut-off apparatus  600  has a rotational bracket  614  for moving or rotating a pin  602 . The pin  602  has a bore  618  through it perpendicular to its longitudinal axis for allowing molten material to pass therethrough as is shown in  FIG. 15 . The pin  602  is rotatably received by a shut-off assembly  604 . A passageway  606  of the shut-off assembly  604  runs axially to the bore  618  in an opened or fill position as is shown in  FIG. 15  to allow molten material to pass through the passageway  606  and the bore  618  when the passageway  606  and the bore  618  are in axial alignment. However, when the rotational bracket  614  is pivoted, the bore  618  is rotated out of axial alignment with the passageway  606 , and the pin  602  blocks the molten material from passing. As can be appreciated, the rotational bracket  614  pivots back-and-forth moving the bore  618  into and out of axial alignment with the passageway  606 . This allows and precludes molten material from passing through the bore  618 . In order to facilitate or allow the pin  602  to be in rotational engagement with the shut-off assembly  604 , a clearance  612  is provided between the outer surface  608  of the pin  602  and the inner surface  610  of the shut-off assembly  604 . To avoid leakage or weepage from exiting the clearance  612 , the collar  128  is incorporated between at least a portion of the pin  602  and at least a portion of the shut-off assembly  604 . The springs  208  are used to create an axial force AF on the collar  128 . The deflection of the springs  208  creates the load or axial force AF. The collar  128  is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF as was explained in detail previously. This radial force RF acts on an inner portion  130  of the collar  128  forcing the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the pin  602 , thereby sealing off an area  140  adjacent the clearance  612  where leakage or weepage may occur. Specifically, when the axial force AF created by the springs  208  is received by the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the pin  602  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer and inner portions  130 ,  132 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  radially into the pin  602 , thereby sealing off the area  140  adjacent the clearance  612  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 16  which illustrates a nozzle assembly  700  for a hot runner system (not shown) in accordance with the present invention. The nozzle assembly  700  has a nozzle  702  and a tip  704  coaxially arranged. Springs are used to create an axial force AF between the nozzle  702  and the tip  704 . The nozzle  702  and the tip  704  are slidably mounted to each other. The deflection of the springs  114  creates the load or axial force AF. An outer surface  708  of the nozzle  702  slides or moves along an inner surface  710  of the tip  704 . In order to facilitate or allow the nozzle  702  to be in sliding engagement with the tip  704 , a clearance  712  is provided between the outer surface  708  of the nozzle  702  and the inner surface  710  of the tip  704 . To avoid leakage or weepage from exiting the clearance  712 , a collar  128  is incorporated between at least a portion of the tip  704  and at least a portion of the nozzle  702 . The collar  128  is designed to receive the axial force AF and redirect at least a portion of the axial force AF to a radial force RF as has been explained previously. This radial force RF acts on the inner portion  710  of the collar  128  forcing the inner portion  710  tightly into engagement with the nozzle  702 , thereby sealing off the clearance  712  or an area  140  adjacent the clearance  712  where leakage or weepage may occur. Specifically, when the axial force AF created by the springs  114  is received by the outer portion  132  of the collar  128 , the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  tightly into engagement with the tip  704  because of the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  of the outer and inner portions  130 ,  132 . As the tapered surface  134  of the outer portion  132  and the tapered surface  136  of the inner portion  130  are urged together, the outer portion  132  forces the inner portion  130  radially into the tip  704 , thereby sealing off the clearance  712  or the area  140  adjacent the clearance  712  where leakage or weepage may occur. 
       FIG. 17  shows an alternative design to the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136 . In this embodiment, the tapered surfaces  134 ,  136  are spherical. There are other shapes that may be substituted as well, such as mating bulbous and cup surfaces, and concave and convex surfaces without departing from the present invention. 
     Although the invention has been described and illustrated with respect to exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing and various other changes, omissions and additions may be made therein and thereto, without parting from the spirit and scope of the present invention.