Knowledge Transfer Partnership: Craven Dunnill Jackfield

Knowledge Transfer Partnership

Funded by Innovate UK and the AHRC

Academic Supervisor: David Huson

Associate: Jed Hammerman

Jed Hammerman joined the CFPR in January 2019 as a KTP Associate working with the company Craven Dunnill Jackfield to introduce and embed a range of 3D digital fabrication and scanning to increase the efficiency and productivity of the design and modelling process for specialist ceramic encaustic tile production and architectural ceramic restoration.

Craven Dunnill Jackfield is a historic business, founded in 1872, which has been producing ceramic wall and floor tiles for 140 years. It is the oldest surviving purpose-built tile factory in the world and is based in the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site at the heart of the birth of Britain’s C18th industrial revolution. Craven Dunnill Jackfield is a service-led business with over 90% of its turnover generated through bespoke project work for projects such as the restoration of the Houses of Parliament, Harrods Food Hall and London Underground Stations.

Craven Dunnill Jackfield undertook a KTP with UWE Bristol’s Centre for Print Research in 2021, which aimed to apply 3D technologies, specifically 3D scanning, to modernise the ceramic restoration process. The KTP was incredibly successful and opened up new revenue streams for Craven Dunnill Jackfield. The company saw a vast improvement in product development time from 2 weeks of model making, down to 4 days. Furthermore, reduced development costs on specific projects by up to 79%.

Associate Professor and academic lead on the project, David Huson commented:

“The Craven Dunnill Jackfield, CFPR/UWE KTP project shows that a committed Company and Academic team combined with an excellent, dedicated Associate can overcome the difficulties and adversities of operating during a pandemic to drive through to success. The project has been very successful and has exceeded the expectations of both partners.“

Craven Dunnill Jackfield used the knowledge learned through the KTP to help restore the pub to its former self.

Jed Leonard-Hammerman, 3D Technologies Specialist Craven Dunnill Jackfield commented:

“This project is a perfect example of how 3D technology can enhance traditional processes without replacing them. It validated the processes developed during the KTP and will be used as a framework for future restoration projects at Craven Dunnill Jackfield.”

Tasked with recreating the original pub’s decor using period photos as a guide, Craven Dunnill Jackfield were able to scan the remnants and use photos to help with the restoration.

Find out more about the details of the pub restoration https://www.artec3d.com/cases/craven-dunnill-pub-restoration