Photochemical machining (PCM), also known as photochemical milling or photo etching can offer economical alternatives to stamping, punching, laser or water jet cutting, or wire electrical discharge machining (EDM) for thin gauge precision parts. Tooling is less expensive and faster than other processes, making PCM useful for prototyping and changes in mass production.
Photo Etching Materials
PCM can be used on virtually any commercially available metal or alloy, of any hardness. It is limited to materials with a thickness of 0.0005 to 0.080 in (0.013 to 2.0 mm). Metals include but are not limited to aluminium, brass, copper, inconel, manganese, nickel, silver, steel, stainless steel, zinc and titanium.