The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
-----

Metal electroforming for optical encoder codewheels

I'm looking for a source that can produce high cpr code wheels for an optical encoder. I've been told that metal electroforming is the way to go. Any help is appreciated.

James Rodriguez
1996

---

My feeling is you probably heard right. NiCoForm [a finishing.com supporting advertiser] [Rochester, NY] is a great place to start.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
1996

Actually, the best and surest way to make the finest encoder wheels is through waterjet cutting.

Tom Utterback
- St. Louis, Missouri USA
2000

---

Thanks, Tom. It probably depends on how many you need to make though. Waterjet cutting might be the most practical way to build the first one, or to make a few.

But when it comes to making a good number of them, I'd bet that electroforming is usually the most practical method. As for finest, the accuracy of electroformed replication is beyond compare -- it's used to make the stampers/molds for CDs, DVDs, vinyl records, precision fresnel lenses, and for superfine screening, profilometers, and on & on.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2000

---

November 2, 2011

Yes, Electroforming and Etching process is the answer to your request. Obviously. Electromforming is a better candidate because it can achieve precise tolerance than etching process, what quantity are you looking at , perhaps you may attach a drawing so people can assist you further

Regards
Mark Chua

Mark Chua
- Singapore