Photochemical etching is a manufacturing process for producing thin metal parts used in an array of industries. Some metal parts require being as thin as 1/8th the thickness of a human hair, and for flawless precision, the best photochemical etching companies are the ideal solution for creating custom metal parts that are thin, used for any industry. Photochemical etching, also known as photochemical milling or photochemical machining, is a chemical milling process used to fabricate sheet metal that has a photoresist material on it so that the chemical only eats away at unprotected areas of the metal. This process began in the 1960s as a means to improve on the printed circuit board industry.
What are the Advantages of Photochemical Etching?
For starters, photochemical etching can be used to create a wide range of products that include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Metal seals and gaskets
- Sensors
- Flexible heating elements
- Heat sinks
- Fine meshes and screens
- Circuit components
- Springs
- EMI shields
- RFI shields
- Jewelry
- Art pieces
- Electrical contacts
- Consumer goods
Companies that produce a variety of products requiring thin metal parts, such as clocks, watches, jewelry, music boxes, and keepsakes typically advance in photochemical etching because this manufacturing process can be used on their entire product line.
Another advantage for using photochemical etching is that you get smooth edges and no burrs. In addition, there is a low risk for stress fractures common with metal stamping, or damage caused by extreme heat, such as imperfections that can result from laser cutting.
Photochemical etching is also more affordable than other options because it requires less manpower, no expensive tooling, and the turnaround time is very fast compared to other methods.
What Types of Metals can Be Used in Photochemical Etching?
Photochemical etching is a popular method for producing thin metal parts because it can work on virtually any type of metal, and this gives organizations a ton of flexibility. Some of the most common metals used by photochemical etching companies like United Western Enterprises include aluminum, aluminum alloys, stainless steel, brass, copper, silver, nickel, gold, titanium, steel, and other mixed alloys.
How Thin Can Metal be Cut Using Photochemical Etching?
Photochemical etching is ideal for metals with a thickness of 0.0005 to 0.080 inches, or even up to 0.013 to 2.032 millimeters–something commonly applied to cutting multiple types of metal or alloys suitable for commercial markets, and even for private artists making large batch orders.
The Best Photochemical Etching Companies Help Organizations Save on Cost
Photochemical etching companies like United Western Enterprises is such an example, as they often (when applicable) fit as many metal parts as humanly possible on a single sheet of metal (the primary unit of labor compared to expensive tooling), to save clients time, money and to minimize error seen in other production methods.
Contact a Reputable Photochemical Etching Company Today
Is photochemical etching the right manufacturing process for your thin metal parts? Most photochemical etching companies offer a free consultation and will examine your blueprints, drawings, and product specs to offer you a custom approach to achieving all of your goals.
