Precision photochemical etching and chemical milling for complex metal components. Delivering exceptional quality parts for aerospace, electronics, medical, and automotive industries with tolerances as tight as ±0.001″.
Metal etching, also known as photochemical machining (PCM) or chemical milling, is a precision manufacturing process that uses controlled chemical reactions to selectively remove material from metal sheets. This advanced technique produces complex, burr-free parts with exceptional dimensional accuracy and surface finish quality.
Achieve tolerances as tight as ±0.0005″ (±0.013mm) with exceptional repeatability
Chemical process eliminates burrs and tool marks for superior surface finish
Create intricate patterns and shapes impossible with traditional machining
No heat affected zones or mechanical stress, maintaining material properties
We specialize in multiple etching technologies to meet diverse manufacturing requirements and deliver optimal results for every application.
High-precision process using photolithography to create detailed patterns. Ideal for complex geometries, fine features, and tight tolerances down to ±0.0005″.
Selective material removal process for weight reduction and pocket creation in aerospace components. Excellent for large parts and complex contours.
Ultra-precise etching for critical applications requiring the highest accuracy. Perfect for electronics, medical devices, and precision instruments.
Our photochemical etching process combines precision engineering with advanced chemistry to deliver exceptional results every time.
Create photographic artwork and precision phototool from your CAD files with micron-level accuracy.
Apply photosensitive resist to both sides of the metal sheet ensuring complete coverage and adhesion.
UV exposure through phototool followed by chemical development to reveal etch pattern.
Controlled chemical etching removes exposed metal, followed by resist stripping and final inspection.
Our advanced etching capabilities work with a comprehensive range of metals and alloys to meet diverse application requirements.
301, 304, 316, 321, 430 grades. Excellent corrosion resistance for medical and food applications.
C101, C110, brass, bronze, beryllium copper. Superior electrical and thermal conductivity.
1100, 3003, 5052, 6061 alloys. Lightweight with excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
Grade 1, 2, 4 titanium. Biocompatible with exceptional strength and corrosion resistance.
Inconel, Hastelloy, Monel. High temperature and corrosion resistant superalloys.
A2, D2, O1, S7 grades. Hardened steels for tooling and wear-resistant applications.
Gold, silver, platinum. High purity metals for electronics and medical devices.
Kovar, Invar, Mu-metal. Controlled expansion and magnetic shielding materials.
Our state-of-the-art equipment and proven processes deliver exceptional precision and repeatability for the most demanding applications.
Material Thickness | Standard Tolerance | Precision Tolerance |
---|---|---|
0.0005″ – 0.005″ | ±0.0005″ | ±0.0002″ |
0.005″ – 0.010″ | ±0.001″ | ±0.0005″ |
0.010″ – 0.020″ | ±0.002″ | ±0.001″ |
0.020″ – 0.060″ | ±0.003″ | ±0.002″ |
Minimum feature size: 0.002″ (0.051mm)
Maximum sheet size: 24″ x 36″ (610mm x 914mm)
Surface finish: Ra 16 microinches or better
Edge quality: Burr-free, no heat affected zone
Our precision metal etching serves critical applications across diverse industries, delivering components that meet the most stringent requirements.
Understanding when metal etching provides superior results compared to laser cutting, stamping, and other manufacturing methods.
Process | Tolerance | Edge Quality | Heat Effects | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|
Metal Etching | ±0.0005″ | Burr-free, smooth | None | Complex patterns, thin materials |
Laser Cutting | ±0.003″ | May have dross | Heat affected zone | Thick materials, simple shapes |
Stamping | ±0.005″ | Burr present | None | High volume, simple shapes |