How Chemical Etching Works for Precision Metal Parts Manufacturing?

 

How Does Chemical Etching Work?

Chemical etching, also known as photochemical machining (PCM), is a subtractive manufacturing process that uses chemical solutions to remove selected areas of metal. It is ideal for producing precision metal components with complex geometries, tight tolerances, and smooth edges—especially in industries like automotive, electronics, aerospace, and medical devices.

1. What Is Chemical Etching?

Chemical etching is a non-mechanical method of metal processing that involves coating a metal sheet with a photoresist, exposing the desired pattern using UV light, and then immersing it in an etching solution (such as ferric chloride) to dissolve unprotected areas.

2. Step-by-Step Chemical Etching Process

  1. Material Selection: Choose a suitable metal such as stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, or titanium.
  2. Cleaning: Clean the metal surface to remove oil, dust, or oxidation.
  3. Photoresist Coating: Apply a light-sensitive resist film on the metal surface.
  4. UV Exposure: Expose the coated metal to UV light through a photomask containing the design pattern.
  5. Development: Develop the exposed metal so that only the intended pattern remains protected.
  6. Etching: Submerge the metal in a chemical etchant (e.g., ferric chloride) to remove exposed areas.
  7. Stripping: Remove the remaining resist to reveal the finished metal part.

3. Advantages of Chemical Etching

  • High precision (up to ±0.01mm)
  • No mechanical stress or burrs
  • Cost-effective for prototypes and large-volume runs
  • Supports complex and fine designs
  • Compatible with a wide range of metals and alloys

4. Applications of Chemical Etching

At Guangdong Zhuanjing, we use chemical etching to produce:

  • Automotive speaker grilles
  • Battery heating films
  • Fuel cell bipolar plates
  • Decorative and functional metal parts

5. Why Choose Us for Etching Services?

With 18 advanced etching lines, ±0.01mm precision, and over 20,000㎡ of industrial space, Guangdong Zhuanjing offers industry-leading etching capabilities with fast delivery and strict quality control. We are ISO9001 and IATF16949 certified and support full customization from prototype to mass production.

Ready to Start a Project?

Contact us today to discuss your chemical etching needs or request a free quotation. Get in touch.

Our product

Manufacturing premium quality perforated and formed speaker grill that are designed, engineered, coated and assembled specifically to meet the exacting standards of the global automotive industry.

Door trim speaker grill

center console speaker grille

Headline speaker grill

A pillar speaker grille

Photo-Etched Speaker Grilles

Aluminum speaker grille

Automotive Sill Plates

Speaker grill assembly

Automotive interior trim plates

Customer Reviews

I am extremely impressed with the precision...
Swapnil from United StatesWednesday, Jan 26, 2019
"I am extremely impressed with the precision and quality of the chemical etching performed by your team. The intricate designs on our metal components were etched flawlessly, exceeding our expectations. Thank you for delivering such a high-quality product."
Your chemical etching service has significantly improved the durability...
Sarah from United KingdomWednesday, Jan 20, 2020
"Your chemical etching service has significantly improved the durability and functionality of our products. The etched patterns not only enhance the aesthetics but also provide excellent grip and tactile feel. Our customers are thrilled with the results, and we couldn't be happier with your exceptional craftsmanship."
We have been relying on your chemical etching expertise for several projects...
Eduardo from ItalyWednesday, Mar 16, 2022
"We have been relying on your chemical etching expertise for several projects, and each time, you have consistently delivered outstanding results. Your attention to detail, quick turnaround time, and excellent customer service make you our preferred choice. Your commitment to excellence is commendable."
has given our brand a unique edge in the market...
Taner from TurkeyFriday, April 26, 2023
"The chemical etching performed by your team has given our brand a unique edge in the market. The intricate logos and designs etched onto our products have attracted significant attention and set us apart from our competitors. We appreciate your professionalism and skill."

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