Abstract: A device is disclosed for forming blanks from pulverulent porcelain mater which blanks have a foot piece and sloping sides. The device has an upper mould which acts against a lower mould, the upper face of which lower mould is formed by a distendable, elastic membrane closing the upper end of a liquid filled chamber. Within the chamber, a central member provides resilient support for the center of the membrane. The parts are so arranged that upon closing of the mould portions a layer of pulverulent porcelain composition is gradually shaped and compressed between the upper mould and the membrane into a concave article blank including a foot piece, and where necessary a relief design, which blank is of uniform thickness and density.

Abstract: A press is disclosed for forming and shaping from ceramic powder articles ving a perimetrical leg-like portion. The press has an upper die and a lower mold, the latter having a central cavity closed at the top by a flexible membrane for receiving ceramic powder thereon. When the upper die closes on the mold, the membrane flexes to fit against the inside of the mold chamber. The mold chamber has flexible membrane walls which are forced inwardly by fluid pressure to shape and compress the perimetrical portions of the blank and upon release of the fluid pressure withdraw to permit removal of the finished blank.

Abstract: The rigid top pressing punch of a press for producing plates or the like is haped in accordance with the inner shape of the plate or the like to be produced. An elastic membrane, which establishes the top boundary, i.e., closes the cavity of a mold, is held at its edge shaped to the dimensions of the eventual plate, and is provided with an annular groove corresponding to the foot of the plate. Pulverulent porcelain composition is distributed on the membrane in the area determined by the edge having the holding action structure. The cavity defined by the membrane is filled with a pressure medium. After lowering the pressing punch, pressure can be applied through the pressure medium to the pulverulent porcelain composition distributed on the membrane in a pressing position. The elastic membrane in its relaxed position corresponds to the shape of the lower surface of the plate or the like, is made with an even, minimum thickness over substantially its whole area and has sufficient inherent strength.