C-Mac International utilizes cold isostatic pressing to manufacture high-strength technical ceramic components that hold strict tolerances after firing. Below, we outline how our CIP process works, the raw materials we run, and how we help engineering and procurement teams secure custom parts.
Our Cold Isostatic Pressing Capabilities and Equipment
The mechanical principle behind cold isostatic pressing is simple, yet highly effective for complex geometries. We seal raw technical ceramic powder inside a flexible elastomeric mold and submerge it in a pressure vessel filled with liquid. The fluid exerts uniform hydraulic pressure on the mold from all directions simultaneously.
Our industrial cold isostatic pressing systems operate between 15,000 and 60,000 psi to achieve a level of uniform compaction that uniaxial mechanical dies cannot replicate. This specialized forming capability provides several direct operational benefits:
- Uniform green density. Enables predictable, uniform shrinkage during high-temperature sintering.
- Superior green strength. Minimizes structural damage during handling compared to standard die-pressed components.
- Geometric flexibility. Supports complex shapes, including long rods, undercuts, and internally threaded forms.
- Efficient green machining. Creates a low-stress, highly consolidated green body that is easier to machine before firing.
Because the compact starts uniformly, it fires with minimal warping or cracking. CIP can reach roughly 95% of theoretical density for ceramics, so the part you receive matches the part you specified. That keeps scrap rates down and final dimensions reliable.
Material Compatibility
Fine ceramic powders naturally trap air, pack unevenly, and create microstructural weak zones that crack in the kiln. Pressing technical ceramics from a single direction worsens these density variances, particularly on tall parts. Our CIP process eliminates these density gradients, ensuring uniform compaction regardless of part geometry.
We use cold isostatic pressing across our entire catalog of core industrial ceramic materials:
- Alumina (90%, 96%, and 99.5% purity). Provides excellent wear resistance and electrical insulation.
- Zirconia (MgO- and Yttria-stabilized). Delivers superior fracture toughness and high impact resistance.
- Silicon nitride. Engineered for extreme, high-temperature environments and advanced structural applications.
These parts go into demanding environments. We make components for the medical, electronics, and oil and gas industries, where a single density flaw can take a part out of service.
You can review the full range on our materials page. If your application sits outside this list, send us the requirements, and we will tell you what fits.
Why Choose C-Mac for Custom Ceramic Manufacturing?
C-Mac has over 100 years of combined engineering experience, and we run lean. That structure lets us move fast and price competitively, saving many customers up to 25% versus larger ceramic and tungsten suppliers.
What you can expect when you work with us:
- 24-hour quoting. On most custom components, so your project does not stall waiting on pricing.
- Short, dependable lead times. Backed by stocking and consignment programs.
- ISO 9001 and AS9100 certified. Quality systems for traceable, repeatable parts.
- Direct engineering support. From quote through delivery.
Share your tolerance requirements, material, and production volume, and we’ll recommend the forming method that best fits the application.
Partner with C-Mac International for High-Strength Technical Ceramics
If you’re considering cold isostatic pressing for a ceramic component, send us your drawing or application requirements. Our team can review the part, recommend the right forming approach, and help move the project into production with a fast turnaround.
Send us your design drawings, operating requirements, or production volume specifications. Our engineering team will review your project parameters and deliver a comprehensive technical quote within 24 hours.