Method of molding

A method of providing a multi-layer molding system for molding a molded article, comprising the steps of:

• providing a modular molding system having an initial-build configuration for producing a molded article of a first molding composition, wherein the initial-build configuration includes i) a molding structure of a purpose-built mono-layer molding system;
• and ii) a first subset of a molding structure of a purpose-built multi-layer molding system;
• providing the modular molding system having the initial-build configuration includes the steps of providing:
• an injection unit having a base upon which is arranged an ‘A’ injection unit;
• a clamp unit;
• a stationary platen of the clamp unit having an ‘A’ passageway for accommodating a nozzle of the ‘A’ injection unit;
• the stationary platen having a ‘B’ passageway for accommodating a nozzle of a ‘B’ injection unit;
• a mount connected to the base, the mount connectable with a ‘B’ injection unit support;
• a main control module including a controller linked with a control device for the ‘A’ injection unit, a control device for the ‘B’ injection unit, and a control interface that is configured for linking the control device of the ‘B’ injection unit that are arranged in an auxiliary control module;
• a power manifold connected to the base, the power manifold being configured to be connectable with a ‘B’ injection unit;
• and
• a cover plate for the ‘B’ passageway;
• wherein the modular molding system is field upgradable with providing a module having a remainder subset of the molding structure of the purpose-built multi-layer molding system to an upgraded configuration for producing the molded article including a combination of the first molding composition and a second molding composition.