Combining commonly used injection moulding processes can open up previously untapped innovation potential. Typical approaches in this respect include the multi-component technique and the merging of various pro cess steps into one production cell. Electrical machine drives reduce production costs and enhance part quality, even though many applications are better served - even in the long term with hydraulic drive solutions. In any case, the specification window for the machines involved is opened further, with the result that previously untapped processes can be more readily covered. Flexibility is ensured by modular machine concepts so that converters and processors can derive long-term benefits even from high-value investments.