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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Etching methods for stainless steel

I am an engraver who does most of his work on rotary CNC machine. Recently, I got interested in etching methods that can be used on stainless steel, but wasn't able to find an actual manual describing precise recipe for chemicals, and the whole process of making the etched part.Does anyone have this kind of manual, which was already tested in practice? I would be grateful if someone can help me with this.

Milan Cetkovic
engraver - Subotica, Serbia
2007

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2007

1. I have a similar problem to that of the Gentleman from Serbia. Just yesterday I manage to etch a 1mm X 7mm slot on a 50 X 50 mm plate of SUS304, using ferric chloride ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] at 1.4 sp. gr. The mask used is just ordinary packing type. Edges of the etched portion is not similar quality to Wire Cut EDM. I guess it is because of the poor mask or maybe I am using the wrong etchant because SUS304 has some carbon in it.

Can anyone tell me what is wrong?

2. If it's masking problem, I am thinking of using a Photoresist similar to that used in the copper clad masking to produce PCB, but this will be expensive. Any substitutes?

3. Fyi, I intend to substitute etching to Wire Cut EDM. Presently I use wire cut to make 0.2 to 0.3 mm slots on spring stainless steel sheets with 0.15 & 0.3mm thickness.

Regards

Joseph Franco
- Las Pinas City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Try to find old book by M.Straschill: Neuzeitliches Beizen von Metallen(Eugen G.Leuze Verlag,Saulgau 1972,English translation exists too). Hope it helps and good luck!

Goran Budija
- Cerovski vrh Croatia
2007

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Dear Sir,

The photoresist for SS is different from that of Copper or Brass. Some photoresists are not prepared to bond or adhere on SS. Please make sure of proper photoresist, in lamination and developing of SS.

Shafiuddin A. Mohammed
metal coating shop - Dubai, United Arab Emirates
2007