Abstract: A method includes forming a mold, the mold having at least one mold portion defining the shape of an element to be removed from the component in a subsequent manufacturing step and having a reduced cross-sectional area. The at least one mold portion includes at least one recess which further reduces the cross sectional area of the cavity and increases the surface area of the at least one mold portion or the at least one mold portion includes a plurality of projections which increase the surface area of the least one mold portion thereby increasing radiative heat loss from the at least one mold portion during the process. A mold for use in this method and a turbine blade formed using this method, are also provided.

Abstract: A method includes forming a mould, the mould having at least one mould portion defining the shape of an element to be removed from the component in a subsequent manufacturing step and having a reduced cross-sectional area. The at least one mould portion includes at least one recess which further reduces the cross sectional area of the cavity and increases the surface area of the at least one mould portion or the at least one mould portion includes a plurality of projections which increase the surface area of the least one mould portion thereby increasing radiative heat loss from said at least one mould portion during said process.