In investment casting, the term knockout refers to the process of removing the ceramic mold from the casting. After the poured castings have cooled to an acceptable temperature, they are transferred to the knockout area. Having served its purpose, the ceramic molds are broken off the castings utilizing a combination of jackhammer-like tools and manual force. While the process is violent, loud and messy, it effectively yields near-net-shape parts ready for the next step in investment casting.