By Emma Dylan
Since the 1960s, chemical etching has steadily increased in popularity and is now widely considered to be one of the most effective manufacturing methods available. More and more companies have turned to the method as a low-cost alternative to traditional production processes, including laser cutting, punching, and stamping.
It has never been more crucial for businesses to look for new ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality than in the present, given the volatility of the economy and the impact of political movements.
The Rising Demand For Chemical Etching
It’s common knowledge that consumer demand has risen steadily over the past few years. The combination of companies cutting lead times to stay competitive and customers losing patience has led to this trend.
It wasn’t long ago, only about 20 years ago, when a customer would have to wait several days or weeks for goods to arrive. With today’s stricter deadlines and shorter delivery windows, buyers have grown to expect faster turnaround times.
Consequently, manufacturers have turned to methods like the chemical etching process to keep up with demand without sacrificing quality. As a result of this system, a product can be finished within hours of its initial design. This has helped businesses that are bidding on huge contracts and need to deliver prototypes for projects. With that said, let’s explore some of the benefits businesses can gain from enlisting the services of chemical etching companies.
Rapid Prototyping
The capability of digital tooling offered by chemical etching is the primary benefit of this process. CAD software is used to produce the dimensions of a part, and then that data is plotted onto mylar film. To optimize the number of components per sheet and shorten the project’s duration, engineers can use this method to create a recurring pattern on a photo tool. Additionally, digital tools make it possible for:
- Accelerated time to market for parts
- Rapid photo tooling turnaround time of fewer than two hours
- Rapid completion of post-plating and shaping processes
- Personalized components fabricated to order in as little as one day
- Three-day turnaround is possible for some custom orders.
- Five business days is the average lead time.
Cost-effective Production
When compared to many other methods of machining, photochemical etching is, without a doubt, the most cost-effective option. The manufacturing of photo tools is quick, they endure the lifespan (if not longer) of the part, and the repeatability of the process makes it possible to produce larger quantities of items at a reduced cost per unit.
- A cheaper method than traditional tooling processes.
- There is no relationship between price and geometry.
- Produces complex parts in a cost-effective manner
- The internal component characteristics are considered “free.”
- Allows for relatively inexpensive, last-minute design adjustments
- The same procedure is used from prototype to mass manufacturing.
Inventory and Brand Management
Ultimately, the following results are possible through chemical etching:
- Merchandise that bears your company’s name and logo.
- Components that include various forms of contact information
- Components with part numbers engraved into them for coordinated inventory management.
