Our Technology
We specialise in small to medium scale manufacturing?
Our process leverages a proprietary technique to influence material behavior during solidification once the melt has been poured into the mould. This approach enhances homogeneity and ensures uniform distribution of reinforcing phases throughout the matrix, even in complex geometries. The result is a more consistent microstructure and improved material performance—without compromising on precision or scalability.
For most applications, if your part is capable of being investment cast, we can cast it.
Advanced Ceramic Additives Enhancing Our Jewellery Alloys
Our metal matrix composites blend precious metals with select high-performance ceramics to create materials that look beautiful, wear longer, and feel better on the skin. Each additive is carefully chosen to enhance both function and form:
Alumina (Al₂O₃)
For strength and brilliance. Adds exceptional hardness and scratch resistance, helping pieces stay polished and beautiful through everyday wear.
Zirconia (ZrO₂)
For gemstone-like polish. Offers a smooth, reflective surface that elevates the finish of each piece—ideal for high-end, heirloom-quality designs.
Silica (SiO₂)
For purity and comfort. A naturally hypoallergenic component that supports a clean, refined look while remaining gentle on sensitive skin.
Spinel (MgAl₂O₄)
For subtle sparkle. A crystal-clear ceramic that adds inner luminosity to metal, contributing to a sophisticated and modern aesthetic.
Boron Nitride (BN)
For next-generation comfort. Lightweight and thermally stable, it helps keep jewellery cool against the skin, even with extended wear.
Build it.
Our designs follow principles informed by traditional investment casting, but optimized for our advanced composite materials. We aim for smooth transitions and consistent wall thicknesses to support clean metal flow and minimize internal stresses. Fine surface textures and small geometric details are retained down to sub-millimetre resolution, with features as small as 0.2 mm often surviving casting and finishing intact.
To maintain mechanical integrity and reduce the risk of defects, most cast parts fall within a practical range of 0.5 to 3 mm wall thickness. Excessively thin areas can lead to incomplete filling, while overly thick sections may introduce shrinkage or porosity. Wherever possible, large volumes are hollowed out to reduce material use and thermal gradients, while still preserving strength.
We account for expected tolerances in the final form—typically ±0.1 to 0.3 mm—depending on size and finishing. Holes, lettering, and surface reliefs are designed to remain crisp after casting, polishing, or stone setting. Finally, sprue attachment points are selected to align with finishing paths, ensuring they can be easily removed without disrupting functional or visible areas.
Critical Design Features
These design rules are grounded in investment casting best practices, adapted for the precision and flexibility of our novel material system.
Wall Thickness
Keep walls between 0.5 mm and 3 mm for optimal fill and durability. Thinner than 0.5 mm can result in miscasts; thicker than 3 mm may cause shrinkage or defects.
Transitions and Corners
Avoid sharp internal corners—use small fillets to reduce stress and improve flow. Smooth transitions between thick and thin areas prevent casting flaws.
Detail Resolution
Fine details like textures, logos, or patterns should be at least 0.2 mm deep/high to remain clear after casting and finishing.
Undercuts and Open Geometry
While investment casting allows complex forms, designs with extreme undercuts or enclosed cavities may need adjustment to avoid casting or finishing complications.
Dimensional Guidelines
Tolerances
Small items typically hold ±0.1–0.3 mm tolerance, depending on geometry and post-processing.
Text and Markings
Minimum readable letter height: 0.5 mm
Minimum line width: 0.2 mm
Holes and Openings
Avoid holes smaller than 0.6 mm unless post-drilled.
Tapered or slightly enlarged entrances can assist metal flow.
General Design Rules
Consistent Wall Thickness
Aim for uniform thickness to ensure smooth metal flow and reduce risk of internal defects.
Avoid Large Solid Volumes
Where possible, hollow out thick sections to improve cooling rates and reduce metal use.
Finishing Considerations
Account for polishing—extra thickness (~0.1–0.3 mm) may be needed in decorative areas.
Sprue Placement
Design parts with logical points for sprue attachment—ideally on non-visible or easily finished surfaces.
Casting Orientation
Plan part geometry to align with ideal casting direction for best detail retention and fewer surface flaws.