Summary for photo etching in ms plate Discussion
Photo etching in MS plate is the core issue here: Scheen k asked how to make clean through-and-through cuts in 1 mm mild steel plates for complex stage-lighting shapes, since imported pre-etched parts are expensive. The parts also need to survive 250-300 °C without distortion. He asked for a suitable etchant or even a different substrate/etchant combination that could produce a sharp, clean cut. In the only reply, Sunny from New Delhi said the problem is not really the etchant but the process technology. He advised that a Dual Jet Etching unit should be used for cutting 1 mm brass sharply, saying the result would look like a laser cut. The thread does not provide a confirmed solution for mild steel specifically, but it suggests that equipment and process control may matter more than simply changing chemicals.
Q. Sir,
My work involves etching (thru and thru) in MS plates (1 mm thick), complex shapes and designs for the purpose of stage lighting. As of now, I have to import these pre-etched plates from China that cost a lot of money. I want to start etching these complex profiles at my own works. My real problem is that I am not able to get a clean through and through cut in the MS plate. Can you please suggest a suitable etchant for this substrate which will be able to give me a clean sharp cut, or alternatively suggest a different set of substrate and etchant for application. The essential requirement for the substrate to be used is that it should be able to withstand high operating temperature
(250-300 °C)and the cut out shape should not get deformed/distorted at this high temperature. Looking for a break through response.
Regards,
Scheen k [surname deleted for privacy by Editor]
electronics mfgr – New Delhi, India
2004
A. Hi this is Sunny from New Delhi,
Your problem is not about etchant, its about technology, explain in detail about the process you are currently using,
You must use Dual Jet Etching unit for cutting 1mm brass sharply, and trust me it will look like a laser cut.
hope this helps
Regards
Sunny T
Sunny
– Delhi, India
April 9, 2008