a closure device for closing a mold tool for manufacturing objects from thermoplastic materials includes a frame including a first yoke , which supports directly one of the two displaceable mold plates supporting the halves of the mold tool , a second yoke remote from the first yoke and spaced tie and pressure rods extending between the first and second yokes . the ends of the tie and pressure rods , proximate to the first yoke , are rigidly connected with the first yoke and the opposite ends of the tie and pressure rods are hingedly connected to the second yoke . the closure device further includes a mechanical drive extending between the second yoke and the other of the two mold plates and a synchronization device for enabling synchronous displacement of the two mold plates .