What is photochemical etching?

A process to manufacture thin metal components using a combination of photographic and chemical processes to image and etch the metal to shape.

What metals can you etch ?

Virtually all metals can be etched but some such as copper, brass stainless steel are easier than others such as Gold, Tungsten, Molybdenum and Titanium. However at ACE Ltd we have developed the technology to etch even these difficult metals.

What are the applications of the process ?

In engineering, aerospace, telecommunications, military and medical applications there is a requirement for shims, lead frames, RF screening cans, meshes, filters, blades and many other precision thin metal components. Chemical etching addresses all these applications and more.

What is the thickest metal that can be etched ?

It depends on the metal and the application, if we need to etch all the way through a metal then generally 1.5mm is the maximum thickness we would recommend. If however only surface etching is required from one side such as a nameplate or plaque then we can process sheets up to 10mm thick.

What is the thinnest metal than can be etched ?

Depends on the metal and design, 0.001” (25 microns) Aluminium is more difficult to handle than 0.001” stainless steel but we can handle both successfully.

What tolerance is achievable ?

Plus or minus 10% of the metal thickness is standard, this can be improved upon at extra cost.

What kind of electronic files can you accept ?

DXF, Gerber, Igis.

How fast is your prototype service ?

If we have the metal in stock and the data supplied is problem free we can produce prototypes on a same day basis. Ideally we like 3/5 working days. Parts that need plating, forming or heat-treating may take a little longer.

Can we have mixed components on one sheet ?

This is possible but only if all the parts are made from the same material and will be ordered in the same quantity ratio in the future.

Do you have to use tabs to hold components in sheets ?

It is preferable to hold the components together whilst they are in the etching machine. It is also essential if the parts need electroplating to give a good electrical connection. For special i.e. Microwave applications where smooth edges are required we can process the parts singularly but at extra cost.