Danny Dotson
Acid etching is a literal solution to the needs a manufacturer has for machining metal parts. Still not convinced? Let’s consider five ways to know if acid, or chemical etching is the best choice for you.
- It’s time to build a prototype.
You’ve done the research and you’re ready to bring your new idea to life, but that isn’t the end of the process. The whole point is to see your ideas in front of you and be able to make changes, without waiting weeks to see how those changes improve your final product.
- You’re still adapting your design.
Maybe you’ve got a design that has been a tried and true part of your manufacturing process. But maybe it’s time to adapt and consider some changes. Unlike more laborious methods of machining (think metal stamping or using dies), the chemical etching process can accept new design changes at any time throughout the process.
- Part of design adaptation is choosing your metal.
You know what you want your product to do for its customers. Partnering with an expert company in the machining process will help you determine the right materials to meet your needs. Do you need corrosion resistance? The ability to sterilize your material? What kind of pliability or strength do you require? Choosing the metal will also dictate the type of etching that is best for your parts manufacturing process.
- What additional benefits can you extract from chemical etching?
There are a lot of advantages to using the acid etching process, and you may not even be aware of some of them. Consider incorporating a parts identification system in with your machining. This can eliminate the additional need for labeling or other identification that adds another costly process (in both time and money) to your manufacturing.
- You need metal experts to help.
If you find the right company for your acid etching process, chances are you’ve found experts in the field of working with metals. Perhaps your manufacturing process requires additional steps, like soldering, laser welding or plating. By choosing a company with extensive knowledge of the properties and capabilities of different metals, you will be doing everything you can to guarantee the success of your designs as they move through the manufacturing process.
Whether you are at the beginning stages of product development, or an expert in the manufacturing field, researching and reviewing the best processes for metal machining is imperative in today’s evolving marketplace. Are you working with a manufacturing partner that helps you innovate?
