Photo etching, also known as photo chemical etching, uses a photo-reactive resist to manufacture metal parts with high precision. Photo etching is one of the latest technology. The process is used to make resistive, complex, and high tolerant metals impossible to achieve using other processes, such as water jet cutting, laser cutting, die-cutting, etc. The process is considered a superior method as compared to other methods. It offers multiple benefits.
The photo etching method can be used with a wide range of raw materials, namely, stainless steel, copper alloy, brass alloy, nickel, titanium, chrome, aluminum, etc. Through this process the material/metal can be customized based on the desired dimensions and properties. The method has a range of diverse applications. They are extensively used in aerospace, automotive, electronics, medical, industrial automation, optical, decorative, circuitry, etc.
As mentioned, photo etching is a widely used method. Its precision and accuracy provide it an edge over other methods. The method is suitable for the photo etching of aerospace components. The process of photo etching can magnificently process an array of metals, such as aluminum and titanium. Below is the list of all the material where photo etch technology is used:
1、Lead Frames
2、Heater elements for wing de-icing
3、Rotor laminations
4、Air intake grilles
5、Heat exchanger plates
6、Shims, washers, and spacers
7、Speaker grilles
8、Mesh filters
9、Micro etching
10、Encoder disks
11、EMI and RFI shielding
Photo etching is a key process in the fabrication of different components of aerospace industry. The other photo etching applications in aerospace are making decorative interior trim for private and commercial aircraft—the process delicate parts with great accuracy and with tight tolerance. The aerospace industry is a very competitive industry that requires innovation to sustain.
Hence the process has extensive application in the aerospace industry. The method is especially suited for application that requires precision, complexity, rich features, and other special requirements related to shape size and properties.
Advantages of photo etching in aerospace
The applications of photo etching have been explained in detail. Now let’s stress the benefits of using this method in aerospace:
1 、Improve Precision
The precision of the process is significantly enhanced through the application of photo etching. Photochemical etching can be used with materials as thin as 0.0003 inches. Holes of size as small as 0.004 inches and edges can be made within ±10% of a part’s thickness can be made.
2、Large Volume Production
On short notice, large volumes of parts can be put into production. The process allows higher flexibility with the extension of the work.
3、High Complex Production
The aerospace industry involves very complex components that are not easily manufactured through other methods. This method of photo etching has revolutionized the aerospace industry. Parts are first designed in AutoCAD. Later the design is applied through this process, and components of great complexity can be easily manufactured. The quality of the parts is also improved through photo etching.
4、Lower Production Cost
The components are manufactured at a reduced cost. This is probably the biggest advantage of this process. Photochemical etching is more cost-effective than most of the other methods.
5、Faster Production
The processing time is made faster. Very complex components are made within a single day. So, the rate of production has been significantly enhanced. This reduction in processing time also affects the cost of production. An etch rate of as fast as 0.001 inches per minute can be achieved.
The method of photochemical etching has already become an essential process in the aerospace industry. The process made it possible to manufacture complex and highly durable parts that can withstand extreme conditions. The process can result in parts that offer tight tolerance, reduced imperfections, and innovative designs. The process is also cost-effective, with all the above-mentioned benefits that the aerospace industry offers. TMN has become a pioneer in chemical etching manufacturing. There is no doubt that the services that TMN offer will suit your requirements and will never disappoint you.
If you are looking for any thin metal parts ,please send email to lydia.sales1@tmnetch.com .