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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Positioning photoresist on uneven surface

I am looking for some alternative to our current texturizing system.

We are currently applying lacquer and adhesive to shaped, hardened tool steel pieces, which does not allow for the repositioning of the photosensitive patterns. I've found all kinds of information about applying the patterns to flat surfaces, but none for curved or shaped surfaces.

I am looking for information on etching texture on uneven surfaces; specifically, I'm trying to see if there is some sort of paper/film/system that would allow us to slide around the pattern on the piece to get it into position. I am also looking for an alternative to using a photosensitive process such as some type of ink that could be heat transferred or one that is pressure-sensitive (similar to the rub-on letters that architects sometimes use).

Am I asking too much? Maybe. But any help would be appreciated.

Susan R. Dilán
- Rio Grande, Puerto Rico
2002

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Susan,
We can probably give you some hints through this site for free, but first we would need to know what type of texturization are you trying to do, how complex, detailed, deep and for what purpose. You mentioned tool steel but that is rather vague. G. Marrufo-Mexico

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico
2002

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You can get electrophoretic photoresists that are brilliant at covering a 3-dimensional surface with a photosensitive paint. The technology is based on electrophoretic paints. Once coated, you can selectively expose the resist and etch the resultant pattern.

Trevor Crichton
R&D practical scientist
Chesham, Bucks, UK
2002