As a machine process, there are many applications and advantages in using chemical machining. Although chemical machining is not the most common machining process, it actually produces components of much higher quality than traditional methods, such as laser cutting, wire electrical discharge machining and metal stamping. Depending on the component design, chemical machining can be an even more economical method of making parts.
Chemical machining is the process by which precise metal parts are created by chemicals and UV light. This manufacturing method is achieved by placing photo-resistant stencils on the designated areas on a cloth. The metallic component is formed by the use of chemicals that dissolve the areas exposed to UV light, creating an exact replica of the stencil.
A chemical compound can be used in almost any type of metal or alloy, of any hardness. It offers a great economic advantage due to the fact that the fabric is relatively cheap and can be produced quickly. The process is ideal for creating prototypes, as it allows for easy changes before or even during mass production. During the manufacturing process, dimensional tolerance is maintained perfectly, and the finished particles will be free of burrs or sharp edges. This saves time and money as no additional work is needed to remove these unwanted fragments.
Chemical engraving also shortens the production time of the components. On average, it only takes two or three days to produce samples. Compared to metal stamping, it takes an average of half a week to complete the gear. Due to the fast response time with chemical machining, if there is any change in the design, the photo tool is easily modified with low cost in a short period of time.
With hard tools, such as stamping and punching, they are often used and other damages. Since photographic tools are only exposed to light, they are more resistant and last much longer. Due to the cost of rigid equipment for a stamp, a large number is required to validate the expense. With photochemical engraving, components can be produced much cheaper, so there is no need to be a huge success.
There are some metal parts so complex and delicate that they can only be produced with chemical machining. Although the technology that emerged from tea first emerged during World War II, it has been modified and modernized over the years to serve a variety of applications in a variety of industries. Many of the new life-changing technologies would not be possible without this rapidly evolving manufacturing process. These multiple ethical benefits avidly benefit industries such as consumer electronics, medical implants, aerospace engineering and so on.