James Hollingrake
Notice of expired patents: Patent dated 15 May 1819 to James Hollingrake of Manchester, mechanic, for a method of casting and forming metallic substances in various forms and shapes, with improved closeness, soundness, and texture. [1]
This appears to be a process which was to be reinvented several times, latterly as 'squeeze casting'. In a discussion paper on fluid-compressed steel, (patented by Joseph Whitworth and Co in 1865), mention was made by Edward Reynolds to Hollingrake's 1819 patent, No. 4371, which was applied in the production of copper ingots by the Broughton Copper Co over a period of 20 years. The patent description states: "Hollingrake, James.- 'Casting metallic substances into various forms and shapes with improved closeness and soundness in texture.’ The metal is cast in a suitable mould, and great pressure applied by moveable piston or plugs arranged in any convenient manner, to insure the molten particles being compressed into close contact." [2]
1830 Patent extension. 'Invention of James Hollingrake, of Manchester, in the County Palatine of Lancaster, Mechanic, for an improved Method of manufacturing Copper or other Metal Rollers for Calico Printing; and also for making and working a Manufacture for applying a Method of casting and forming Metallic Substances into various forms and shapes with improved closeness and soundness in texture.'[3]