Applications and Benefits of Electrochemical Etching

Most people might be familiar with metal etching as an artistic method, but it is widely used in the industrial setting as well. Electrochemical etching is used in several different industries for a variety of applications. It is especially advantageous for parts that are hard to produce, for small prototype production lots, when it is difficult to obtain required accuracies, and for cost intensive parts due to expensive mold requirements.
Measurement instrumentation is one application where metal etching is commonly used. Specifically, metal etching is performed in the production of galvanometer mirror frames, gaskets for meters, electrical contacts and terminals, and strain gauges. In the electronics industry the method is used to create shadow masks for CRTs, various metal grids, magnetic recording heads, jigs for ceramic capacitors, and high density electrical connectors. Another area this type of etching is used for is that of optical instruments such as various slits for cameras, apertures, and shutters. Other applications include micro fine filters, carriers for silicon wafer grinders, vibration plates, bases for industrial diamond cutters, and precision micro nozzles.
Some benefits that electrochemical etching has over other methods would be the low tooling cost and fast turnaround. There is also a repeatability guarantee for burr-free, complex parts with this process and thin foils are able to be etched without distortion. Metals of thicknesses from 0.0003” to 0.063” can be etched and mechanical properties of the metal will remain undisturbed. There are many advantages that make metal etching ideal for a number of industrial applications. Consider it as an option for your next project and enjoy these benefits and more.