Method and apparatus for forming a runner in a mold assembly

A method for sealing a mold assembly by using a cavity plate and a floating seal, comprising the steps of:

• providing the mold assembly, wherein the mold assembly includes the cavity plate and a sealing plate, the sealing plate having a major surface with a resilient material disposed thereon;
• mounting a floating seal to the sealing plate, wherein the floating seal has a sealing surface on one side and a support surface on an opposite side;
• placing a workpiece on the resilient material, the workpiece positioned adjacent to and spaced apart from the floating seal;
• and
• compressing the resilient material such that the resilient material applies a force to the floating seal, and pushes the floating seal against the cavity plate.

A mold assembly, comprising:

• a mold having a cavity plate and a sealing plate, the sealing plate having a recess;
• a resilient material in the recess of the sealing plate;
• and
• a floating seal, the floating seal movably mounted to the sealing plate.