Microbritt, specialists in precision microfabrication and a successful Newcastle University spinout, has announced a significant expansion of its operations.
The microfabrication specialists are relocating to a state-of-the-art facility in Cramlington, Northumberland, increasing operational space tenfold to accommodate growing demand, technological advancements and production capacity.
Microbritt’s expansion follows a £400,000 investment secured in April 2024, led by the North East Innovation Fund.
Supported by the European Regional Development Fund, and managed by Northstar Ventures, alongside business investor Angel Groups, this funding has enabled Microbritt to scale its micro-milling techniques, expand its production capabilities and invest in advanced technologies and workforce growth.
Dr Carl Dale, CEO and co-founder of Microbritt (pictured), said: “The relocation to our new facility in Cramlington marks a major milestone for Microbritt.
“Expanding our operational footprint by 10 times allows us to significantly enhance our manufacturing capabilities, accommodate cutting-edge equipment, and drive further innovation in precision microfabrication.”
The decision to move to Cramlington’s thriving industrial hub is a strategic step that positions the specialists closer to key partners, suppliers, and the infrastructure to support its growth ambitions. The expansion will allow for:
- Increased production capacity to meet the rising demand for high-precision microfluidic solutions
- New R&D capabilities to accelerate product innovation and expand Microbritt’s portfolio
- A larger, specialised workforce with new job opportunities in engineering, research, and operations
Microbritt’s rapid growth has been driven by pioneering technological developments, which has unlocked new opportunities in microfluidics, semiconductors and healthcare applications. In 2024, Microbritt secured its sixth patent for machining brittle materials, to facilitate high-precision fabrication of customer-defined products using materials such as silicon, glass, ceramics and polymers.
Dr Dale added: “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.”
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.
