Case Studies

Mallory Irvine – Mount Everest 3D Centenary Map.

On the morning of 8th June 1924, George Mallory and Sandy Irvine made their attempt to be the first humans to summit ‘Chomo Lungma’- Mount Everest. Their companion Noel Odell saw two tiny figures crest a rock outcrop close to the summit, but the two figures were soon engulfed in cloud and were never seen again. To this day no one knows if they made it to the summit or not, all that is known is that whatever the outcome, they did not survive to tell their tale.

Mountain Castings were commissioned to create a 3D map to commemorate the upcoming centenary of the two British Mountaineers’ incredible story. Using Lidar data and the latest 3D printing technology an original pattern was made and from this the mold taken. Twenty cold castings were taken in aged bronze and all were delivered to a delighted client.

The finished map mounted in a modern frame.

‘Commissioned for Manufacture’ Engraving

Applying the finishing touches to the Master Pattern. This must be absolutely perfect as the mold process will pick up a scratch as fine as a strand of hair.

The original pattern being 3D printed. A special material was used to give a smooth finish with zero lines typical to 3D printing.

The engraving detail true to the maps of the era, even the Everest summit height of 29002ft is now believed to be 29030ft. Using our unique process we can engrave your map with incredibly fine details.

Maker Steve with a finished map.

The Cambrian Way

‘Taith Cambria’, or ‘The Cambrian Way’ is one of the most beautiful and scenic walks in Britain. It stretches from Cardiff in the South to Conwy in the North and takes in breathtaking vistas, Mountains, and classic Welsh countryside. It was originally pioneered by Tony Drake in the 60’s and 70’s and was largely considered an unofficial trek. However, due to funding and initiatives from the Welsh government, this remarkable walk is now fully maintained and supported by way of the newly formed ‘Ramblers Cymru’.

In 2021 Mountain Castings were approached to create a 3D map for the start and finish points and in August 2022 these were unveiled at each end of the walk. Now, people from all over the world come to trek the Welsh countryside and take in the beauty of this walk which is maintained by the group and volunteers to rigorously high standards.

The finished Bronze Casting at Conwy Castle.

Preparing the mold box, this must be absolutely free from dust or hairs before the silicone is poured.

Pouring the Silicone, this is ran through a de=gassing chamber before pouring to remove all air bubbles.

24 hours later the Silicone has cured and the mold is released. This was then sent to a Specialist in Bronze Foundry work who made the final Casts.

The finished casting at Conwy Castle is mounted on a lovely piece of timber.

The start point in Cardiff Park on unveiling day. This one is mounted on a huge stone.