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.
We have different types of metal available in the market, but most of them can hardly be affordable for a common man. However, metals react differently when they come into contact with acids. In regard to this, before buying any acid anticipated for steel etching, you have to consult the distributors on which acid is suitable for a particular metal.
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.
Considering the fact that the whole metal plate cannot be immersed in the acidic basin, you should have some resist materials. This includes paint and tapes that can cover the points that you do not need to etch. Cover them properly leaving the points that your intended design will cover. The back and the edges of the steel plate should be concealed completely with a tape to prevent them from etching.
With the design replicated in your steel plate, prepare the intended acid in a large container that will fit in the plate. This should be done carefully to avoid splashing of the acid into your face or feet. The plate should be put facing down to avoid bubbles that case flakes which might interfere with your design. Leave it for some time until you are sure of getting the best product.
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.
Every industry has its safety and precautions rules, but they vary. However, when working with acids of any nature, you should not ignore any safety precaution because most of them are highly porous and can lead to disability among other lifetime defects. Some of the acids are also known to cause fire, and you should consult the distributors before using any of them.
We have different types of metal available in the market, but most of them can hardly be affordable for a common man. However, metals react differently when they come into contact with acids. In regard to this, before buying any acid anticipated for steel etching, you have to consult the distributors on which acid is suitable for a particular metal.
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.
Considering the fact that the whole metal plate cannot be immersed in the acidic basin, you should have some resist materials. This includes paint and tapes that can cover the points that you do not need to etch. Cover them properly leaving the points that your intended design will cover. The back and the edges of the steel plate should be concealed completely with a tape to prevent them from etching.
With the design replicated in your steel plate, prepare the intended acid in a large container that will fit in the plate. This should be done carefully to avoid splashing of the acid into your face or feet. The plate should be put facing down to avoid bubbles that case flakes which might interfere with your design. Leave it for some time until you are sure of getting the best product.
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.
Every industry has its safety and precautions rules, but they vary. However, when working with acids of any nature, you should not ignore any safety precaution because most of them are highly porous and can lead to disability among other lifetime defects. Some of the acids are also known to cause fire, and you should consult the distributors before using any of them.
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