A successful Newcastle University tech spin out is expanding into a new base in Northumberland on the back of a £400,000 investment.
Microbritt, which was spun out of the university in 2021, has developed a precision service which micro-manufactures products from brittle materials such as glass, silicon, polymers and ceramics.
The company has developed a patented process for the production of high value prototypes and complex products which are created from brittle materials, and its technology has can be used in sectors including semiconductors, healthcare, photonics and defence.
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Last year the firm sealed the six-figure investment led by the North East Innovation Fund, which is supported by the European Regional Development Fund, and managed by Northstar Ventures, alongside business investor Angel Groups. The funding has enabled Microbritt to move into its new base in Cramlimgton where it can scale its micro-milling techniques, expand its production capabilities, and invest in advanced technologies and creating new jobs.
Dr Carl Dale, CEO and co-founder of Microbritt, said: “The relocation to our new facility in Cramlington marks a major milestone for Microbritt. Expanding our operational footprint by ten times allows us to significantly enhance our manufacturing capabilities, accommodate cutting-edge equipment, and drive further innovation in precision microfabrication.
“Brittle materials, like silicon used in the semiconductor industry, have previously been difficult to machine because of their fragility. Microbritt’s new patented process makes this possible and brings established CNC machining technology into a new manufacturing domain.”
The firm said the decision to move to Cramlington’s industrial hub was driven by a desire to get closer to key partners, suppliers and the infrastructure to support its growth ambitions. As well as boosting its production capacity, to meet the rising demand for its products, it will also carry out new research and development, to ramp up product innovation and expand its portfolio.
New skilled jobs within engineering, research and operations will also be created.
In addition to its expansion, Microbritt has been actively engaging with global industry leaders. The company showcased its cutting-edge microfabrication technologies at MicroTAS 2024, the 28th International Conference on Miniaturised Systems for Chemistry and Life Sciences in Montréal, Canada, strengthening its international presence and industry partnerships.