Patternmaker

Also known as:

Foundry Patternmaker

Introduction

Patternmakers - sometimes called "foundry patternmakers" - design and construct patterns. They use a variety of materials such as wood and plastic to make metal casting moulds. They also produce dies (moulds) for die-casting processes. Patternmakers work from engineers' drawings or computer designs. They use a wide range of hand and machine tools to make precise patterns and dies.

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Work Activities

Patternmakers design and construct patterns that are used to make castings for metal parts, such as engineering machinery and surgical instruments.

A pattern is a full-scale model of the final casting. Patternmakers create patterns in wood, metal, plastic and polystyrene. The patterns are then used to make moulds into which molten metal can be poured. A very high degree of accuracy is needed to make a pattern to the exact dimensions required.

Patternmakers work from engineers' drawings or electronic information. Engineers' drawings are used to produce a 'set-out'. The set-out is a full-scale working drawing that shows how the pattern is to be assembled. Patternmakers assemble the patterns using a variety of tools and machinery.

When information is supplied electronically, patternmakers use computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing techniques.

Wooden patterns may need a further stage, which is hand-finishing. Great care is needed to rub down and varnish the pattern, to create a smooth, blemish-free surface.

Patternmakers also produce metal dies (moulds) into which molten metal is poured. These dies are made of two or more parts clamped together to form the required shape.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

You will need a wide range of hand and machine skills, as well as a high level of skill in working with different types of material, including wood, metal and plastic. You need good eyesight.

You will need to be able to understand and interpret engineering drawings and, from a drawing, visualise the finished pattern in three dimensions. You must also understand two- and three-dimensional computer based methods of designing.

Accuracy and precision are essential. You will also need to be good at maths to take measurements and make calculations.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Patternmakers earn in the range of £270 - £410 a week, rising to £440 - £480. Higher earners can make around £520 a week.

Patternmakers usually work a basic 39-hour week, which may include shift work and weekend work.

Employers are firms such as foundries and specialist patternmaking companies that make metal products. Some foundries are independent firms, while others are part of larger firms, such as car manufacturers.

Patternmaking firms (usually small businesses) and foundries are found in most industrial areas throughout the UK. Automation has led to some companies employing multiskilled machine operators rather than specialist patternmakers.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Relevant skills gained in woodworking, foundry work or mechanical engineering craft work, are an advantage.

Modern Apprenticeships leading to SVQ level 2 may be available in some areas.

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