There are different types of metals that artisans can use when creating a design in any metal by mode of acid etching. However, copper among other metals has proved to be very expensive, and not every merchant can afford them. This has forced most of the craftsperson to use steel since it is readily available in most markets. In this abstract, I shall highlight different ways of metal etching Houston Texas by use of acids.
Metals react differently when acid is poured on them. Before buying any of the etchants you should do a prior research on them and learn on how they react on the metal you intend to use. For instance, when you are working with aluminum it is highly discouraged to work with any ferric chloride. Whereas the same acid can be compatible with copper and silver.
Ensure that you have cleaned the metal piece you intend to work on properly. Most of the metals have burrs that may interfere with your design, and this can be cleaned up by applying a rough sandpaper until they are completely removed leaving a smooth metal. Additionally, avoid cleaning the side that you will not be working on.
Applying the design that you wish to have on the steel plate is cumbersome for people who are new in this industry. The method you will use to lay your design on the plate will determine its complexity. Replicating an image or design from another metal is easier compared to that prepared by drawing using free hand. However, it is highly illegal for you to etch the same image of another legitimate company without their permission because it will lead to prosecution.
Bearing in mind that a design that you wish to etch on the metal will take a particular part of the whole item, find a suitable resist when working with the acids. Resists can be of different forms, but the common and affordable ones are adhesive and duct tapes or paints. Ensure that the edges are covered with a resist to prevent acid from etching them.
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.
Remove the steel from the acid bath and clean it by use of water. However, some acids are hazardous, and use of baking soda can neutralize them with ease. For those parts that you used tapes and paint as resists you can clean them using turpentine for a clear end product.
Safety precautions should be observed all through these process. Ensure that you work in a well ventilated area and wear protective gloves. Avoid pouring water in an acid can as a way of mixing. This causes the acid to heat up and can lead it to splash out of the container. Instead, you should pour the acid into a water container.
Metals react differently when acid is poured on them. Before buying any of the etchants you should do a prior research on them and learn on how they react on the metal you intend to use. For instance, when you are working with aluminum it is highly discouraged to work with any ferric chloride. Whereas the same acid can be compatible with copper and silver.
Ensure that you have cleaned the metal piece you intend to work on properly. Most of the metals have burrs that may interfere with your design, and this can be cleaned up by applying a rough sandpaper until they are completely removed leaving a smooth metal. Additionally, avoid cleaning the side that you will not be working on.
Applying the design that you wish to have on the steel plate is cumbersome for people who are new in this industry. The method you will use to lay your design on the plate will determine its complexity. Replicating an image or design from another metal is easier compared to that prepared by drawing using free hand. However, it is highly illegal for you to etch the same image of another legitimate company without their permission because it will lead to prosecution.
Bearing in mind that a design that you wish to etch on the metal will take a particular part of the whole item, find a suitable resist when working with the acids. Resists can be of different forms, but the common and affordable ones are adhesive and duct tapes or paints. Ensure that the edges are covered with a resist to prevent acid from etching them.
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.
Remove the steel from the acid bath and clean it by use of water. However, some acids are hazardous, and use of baking soda can neutralize them with ease. For those parts that you used tapes and paint as resists you can clean them using turpentine for a clear end product.
Safety precautions should be observed all through these process. Ensure that you work in a well ventilated area and wear protective gloves. Avoid pouring water in an acid can as a way of mixing. This causes the acid to heat up and can lead it to splash out of the container. Instead, you should pour the acid into a water container.
About the Author:
Find a list of the benefits of using metal etching Houston Texas services and more info about a reliable service provider at http://letitbeetched.com/faq-s today.