Apparatus for injecting molten metal into a die cast machine and methods and control systems for cooling the same

An apparatus for injecting molten metal into a die cast machine is provided. The apparatus includes a molten metal reservoir having a first open end in fluid communication with a die casting mold and a second open end. The molten metal reservoir includes at least one first cooling fluid path positioned about at least a portion of an outer surface of the molten metal reservoir and in thermal contact with the molten metal reservoir. The apparatus further includes a plunger sized to fit within the second open end. The plunger includes a plunger tip and a second cooling fluid path defined within the plunger tip and in thermal contact with the molten metal reservoir. A plurality of thermal actuators are also provided. Each of the plurality of thermal actuators controls a volume of cooling fluid flowing through one first cooling fluid path of the at least one first cooling fluid path or the second cooling fluid path.