a manifold , in a first pocket , defines a manifold orifice to supply material to a nozzle in a second pocket . a support ring in the second pocket maintains the nozzle stationary within the second pocket . a bushing extends between the pockets , fixedly attached to the manifold and laterally movable with respect to the pockets and the nozzle . at ambient temperature , the centers of the nozzle and manifold orifices are laterally offset from one another , a preload is defined between the nozzle and the bushing , another preload is defined between the manifold and the nozzle , and a gap is defined between the support ring and the pocket . in operation , when the various components thermally expand , the manifold moves laterally within the first pocket , and the nozzle remains substantially stationary within the second pocket , such that the centers of the nozzle and manifold orifices are laterally aligned , and the gap is closed .