Etching is a process whereby some parts of a metal are eaten up by strong acids, and this has been used for designing different types of metals for a long time. Considering that some of the metals are hard to get due to their availability and the price in the market, most of our artisans have turned to use of steel. Therefore it is important for any craftsman to understand the principles of metal etching Houston Texas.
Very strong acids are used in etching the metal to derive a good design. However, before venturing into this business, you should understand the types of acids you will need to work with. Metals react differently when mixed with the same acid some even causing fire. When using the aluminum, avoid using ferric chloride and instead try using hydrofluoric acid.
Before you start drawing the design, you wish to etch on the steel plate, cleaning it from any burr is mandatory. This can be done by use of steel wool, sandpaper or wire brush can help you achieve the desired result. However, the back of your plate should undergo the process if the design will not be applied there.
Transferring the image or the design you want on the steel can be tricky for a starter. However, the simplicity and the complexity of your design will depend on the method used to lay the design on the metal. You can draw by freehand or replicate a design from another steel. Moreover, the design should not resemble another one not unless you are allowed to use the trademark.
In above project, you will need some materials to prevent some parts from etching when working on a design. The commonly used materials are adhesive tapes and ink for painting the back of the steel. Apply them wherever you do not want etching to occur especially the edges and the back of your design.
After you have transferred your design to the steel plate, Wear protective gloves and insert the steel plate in the readily prepared acidic bath. Put it while facing down to achieve a clear lined up design. This will avoid a situation where if put facing up some bubbles form flakes which interfere with the design if not polished early. For the best product, leave the plate in the acidic bath for a while.
After leaving the plate in the acid for sufficient time remove it from the bath and clean it up with water. Be cautious on washing it with bare hands because some acids are so hazardous when they come into human contact. In such cases, you can use baking soda to neutralize the acid before you proceed with washing it with water. Remove the tapes and clean the painted areas by use of turpentine.
By following these simple procedures, you will be able to come up with a masterpiece of your own. Moreover, the nature of this job involves a lot of risks, especially when dealing with the acids. It is imperative that you observe safety and precautions to avoid complications that may arise from contact with the acid.
Very strong acids are used in etching the metal to derive a good design. However, before venturing into this business, you should understand the types of acids you will need to work with. Metals react differently when mixed with the same acid some even causing fire. When using the aluminum, avoid using ferric chloride and instead try using hydrofluoric acid.
Before you start drawing the design, you wish to etch on the steel plate, cleaning it from any burr is mandatory. This can be done by use of steel wool, sandpaper or wire brush can help you achieve the desired result. However, the back of your plate should undergo the process if the design will not be applied there.
Transferring the image or the design you want on the steel can be tricky for a starter. However, the simplicity and the complexity of your design will depend on the method used to lay the design on the metal. You can draw by freehand or replicate a design from another steel. Moreover, the design should not resemble another one not unless you are allowed to use the trademark.
In above project, you will need some materials to prevent some parts from etching when working on a design. The commonly used materials are adhesive tapes and ink for painting the back of the steel. Apply them wherever you do not want etching to occur especially the edges and the back of your design.
After you have transferred your design to the steel plate, Wear protective gloves and insert the steel plate in the readily prepared acidic bath. Put it while facing down to achieve a clear lined up design. This will avoid a situation where if put facing up some bubbles form flakes which interfere with the design if not polished early. For the best product, leave the plate in the acidic bath for a while.
After leaving the plate in the acid for sufficient time remove it from the bath and clean it up with water. Be cautious on washing it with bare hands because some acids are so hazardous when they come into human contact. In such cases, you can use baking soda to neutralize the acid before you proceed with washing it with water. Remove the tapes and clean the painted areas by use of turpentine.
By following these simple procedures, you will be able to come up with a masterpiece of your own. Moreover, the nature of this job involves a lot of risks, especially when dealing with the acids. It is imperative that you observe safety and precautions to avoid complications that may arise from contact with the acid.
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