A nozzle retention arrangement is provided for an injection molding manifold system, such as a hot runner manifold system. The nozzle retention arrangement couples an injection nozzle to a distribution manifold in a manner that locates the nozzle in its final operating position and applies an initial assembly load to retain the nozzle in position on the manifold to facilitate installation of a manifold system into a manifold plate. The nozzle retention arrangement may provide a compliant load application feature to limit sealing surface pressure between the nozzle and the manifold to prevent surface damage between the components, while also accommodating thermal expansion of the heated components during operation of the system. The nozzle retention arrangement may also provide a load control feature to prevent the machining quality of the nozzle bore in the manifold plate from determining the sealing load between the nozzle and the manifold.

An injection molding nozzle system for delivering molten material from a manifold to a nozzle is disclosed. The manifold and nozzle are disposed within pocket of a manifold plate. The nozzle is secured to a melt-transfer bushing disposed within the manifold via a collar. The collar is secured to the bushing such that it is centered about the axis of the outlet of the bushing. A support ring supports the nozzle within the pocket such that the nozzle is centered about the axis of the pocket. In a cold state, the outlet of the bushing and the inlet of the nozzle are misaligned. In operation, thermal expansion of the components bring the outlet of the bushing and the nozzle into alignment. The melt-transfer bushing and the connection of the nozzle to the manifold, via the releasable connection between the collar and the bushing facilitates manufacture and assembly of the system.