Chemical Etching

Chemical etching, also known as photochemical machining or chemical milling, is a precise metal fabrication process. It involves the removal of metal from a part using a chemical solution, typically an acid or a base. This process allows for the creation of highly detailed and accurate components.

The procedure begins with coating the metal part with a photoresist, which is a light-sensitive material. A photographic stencil of the desired pattern is then applied to the metal. The areas of the photoresist that are exposed to light become hardened, while the unexposed areas remain soft and are later washed away. The exposed metal surfaces are then subjected to the chemical etchant, which dissolves the unprotected metal areas, creating the desired pattern or shape.

Chemical etching is especially valuable in applications where precision and detail are crucial. It’s used in various industries including electronics, for creating circuit boards and intricate components, in aerospace for lightweight, precision parts, and in medical device manufacturing for creating components with fine features. This method is favored for its ability to produce complex designs without affecting the material properties, as there is no heat or mechanical force involved.

It’s also beneficial for producing parts with very fine features, something that might be challenging or impossible with traditional machining techniques. The process is efficient, cost-effective for both large and small production runs, and capable of handling a wide range of metal types and thicknesses.