Etching Steel

The etching processes such as photochemical etching can be used in different types of metal stainless steel being one of the common metals to undergo this process. Chemical etching is an important process used to fabricate various metals for different industrial applications. The good thing about this metal is that it is resistant to corrosion and also tough to resist rusting when subjected to water. Even if it is resistant to corrosion and rust does not mean that it is stain-proof, certain environmental factors can lender it stain-proof-compromised. Conditions such as being exposed to a saline environment such as the ocean water can stain stainless steel. There are different grades of stainless-steel alloys each having specific strength and properties. Stainless steel has proved useful in industrial applications that require strength and corrosion-resistant properties. Steel provides good properties that are needed nearly in all sectors of industry.

Acid Etching Steel Process

Many artisans opt for stainless steel more than zinc due to its availability and its durable properties. The etching of steel uses mordant acids and other acids. Below is a description of the steps used in etching steel.

Preparatory Stage

The first thing you want to do is first choose the type of steel you want to work with. There are different types of steel and the choice depends on the use and the needed properties that the end product should possess. The choice of the steel will also determine which type of acid or chemical you use. If your steel has burrs on the edges first file them out.

Cleaning

This step involves cleaning your steel metal, use cleaning agents such as chlorine. Use a wire brush or use any abrasive material such as steel wool. Scrub your metal using a circular motion. You need to clean it and look shiny as much as you can but avoid overdoing as this can introduce scratches and lines that are not part of your design. Ensure your metal is grease-free as any oily part will mask the metal and acid reaction will not be optimal. Use water to rinse your scrubbed steel metal, ensure the water you are using is clean and is running. The next step cleans your rinsed steel metal with isopropyl alcohol, it is a good cleansing agent and a good dehydrator. This will leave your metal clean and dry.

Etching the Steel

Choose the image you want and transfer it to your metal steel. It is advisable to use a picture with high contrast level for excellent results. Transfer your design by first coating your steel metal with wax-like material. The next thing is that you need to protect the edges of your steel so that the acid does not etch them. Choose the acid you want to use.

Acids Used to Etch steel

Acids used in this process include; nitric acid in the ratio of 1 (acid):3 (water), 10% Sulfuric acid, and ferric acid which is mixed with water in equal portion to make hydrochloric acid.

Immerse the Steel in Etching Acid

Put your stainless-steel metal in an acid bath and leave it for a specific period depending on how deep you want the line to be. Finally, remove the metal and clean it in running and clean water. You can use baking soda during the washing step to neutralize the acid.