Building Colder for Longer: How Our Facility Growth Fuels Quantum Innovation
At Zero Point Cryogenics, we believe the future of quantum research is built one part at a time. That includes the space where we design, machine, and assemble every handcrafted cryostat.
As Canada’s only manufacturer of dilution refrigerators and cryostats, and one of just a few globally, our growth is closely tied to the increasing demand for ultra-low temperature systems that are reliable, intuitive, and built to last. The evolution of our facility reflects our continued commitment to quality, innovation, and supporting the researchers driving quantum technologies forward.
Where It All Began
Established in 2017, Zero Point Cryogenics is the result of more than two decades of ultra-low temperature physics research by our CTO, Dr. John P. Davis. After years of operating dilution refrigerators in the lab and teaching generations of students thermodynamics, Dr. Davis recognized the need for something better: a system that was compact, easy to use, and reliable enough to take cryogenic complexity out of the equation, so researchers can focus on pushing quantum boundaries, not troubleshooting their fridge.
With that belief and growing global interest in quantum computing, ZPC was founded to manufacture cryogenic solutions that could meet the moment and exceed expectations.
Our Roots: Davis Lab at the University of Alberta
Our journey began in the Davis Lab at the University of Alberta, where our co-founders first envisioned a Canadian-built dilution refrigerator. Those early years weren’t about polished facilities or floor plans. They were about testing ideas, pushing limits, working with limited resources and unlimited curiosity.
By 2018, the first prototype was in development, and by 2021, we had successfully transitioned out of the lab and into our own manufacturing space, ready to scale what we had proven in the lab.
A Purpose-Built Space for Quantum Innovation
In July of 2022, we moved into our own dedicated facility in Edmonton’s Papaschase Business Park. Located just minutes from the University of Alberta, this space brought all aspects of our operation under one roof, including precision machining, cryogenic testing, collaborative engineering, and final system assembly.
Getting the space operational was far from turnkey. From repurposing the layout to sourcing and installing critical equipment, the facility was built up step by step by a small, determined team guided by a clear vision. That vision, driven by our CEO Chris Cassin, focused not just on building for the needs of today, but on laying the groundwork for long-term capability, scalability, and excellence.
Starting from an empty warehouse, we built new office space, an assembly and technical bay, and a full machine shop including CNC machines, lathes, welding stations, and a fume hood. From repurposing the space to installing critical infrastructure, it took an incredible amount of planning, coordination, and hands-on work. Every piece of equipment installed, every workflow mapped, and every improvement made was guided by the same mindset that defines our products.
Our dedicated facility has allowed us to maintain the craftsmanship and reliability we’re known for, while giving us the flexibility to iterate, optimize, and refine based on feedback from the academic and industry partners we serve. Staying in Edmonton has also helped us remain connected to Canada’s emerging quantum ecosystem and tap into the next generation of technical talent.
Growing Alongside the Industry
Over the years, we’ve made strategic investments in our facility to support increasing demand. With the continued support of local and federal funding programs, we’ve expanded our in-house capabilities with new equipment, enhanced workflows, and additional production space.
Now, as our team continues to grow and the complexity of our work increases, we are actively expanding into a nearby office space, doubling the amount of office and desk space available for design, planning, and project management. This next step will help us support our internal teams more effectively and create room for continued innovation, collaboration, and hands-on manufacturing excellence.
A Hub for Collaboration
Our facility is more than a place where systems are built. It’s a space where ideas are exchanged and long-term partnerships begin.
We’ve proudly welcomed visitors from Alberta’s Ministry of Technology and Innovation, the University of Alberta, CDAC Bangalore, the U.S. Department of Energy, and other institutions pushing the boundaries of quantum research. These visits are a reminder of what our space represents: trust, openness, and a shared commitment to progress.
Looking Forward
As demand for cryogenics continues to grow, so will we. We’ll continue to expand our capabilities, evolve our infrastructure, and invest in the tools and talent that move us forward.
We remain committed to building reliable, built-to-last, easy-to-use systems that integrate seamlessly into research environments. Every improvement we make—whether in design, production, or workflow—reflects our goal of helping teams advance their work with confidence and consistency.
Zero Point Cryogenics – Colder for Longer
Zero Point Cryogenics designs and manufactures advanced dilution refrigerator cryostats, which are specialized cryogenic systems that enable quantum computing, fundamental physics research, and ultra-low temperature applications. The company is focused on designing robust and reliable systems to enable quantum technology research and innovation.
ZPC is the only manufacturer of its kind in Canada and one of the few manufacturers of this technology in the world. The company is actively bridging the gap between customized and commercially scalable solutions, creating flexibility for quantum research and innovation while having the depth to scale.
At Zero Point Cryogenics, we improve and iterate our designs based on customer optimization and are driven to build a product that stays colder for longer.
Contact our dedicated experts to discuss your cryogenic needs and visit our website to learn more at www.zpcryo.com.