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Optics Etching – Metal Etching for Optics Industries

Optic etching is a specialized process used primarily in the manufacture of optical components, such as lenses, mirrors, prisms, and other devices that manipulate light. This technique involves the selective removal of material from the surface of an optical substrate, typically glass or optical plastics, to create precise microstructures or patterns that enhance the optical performance of the finished product. The etching process can modify the surface properties, improve light transmission, and reduce unwanted reflections or scattering, thus enhancing the functionality of optical systems.

The history of optic etching can be traced back to the early days of optics and lens manufacturing. Traditionally, optical elements were ground and polished to achieve the desired shapes and surface finishes.

However, as demands for more complex optical functions increased, so did the need for innovative manufacturing techniques.

In the latter half of the 20th century, the introduction of chemical and laser etching methods revolutionized the field, allowing for greater precision and control over the etching process.

Our Optics Etching Service

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If you need optics parts etched we are one of the most capable and affordable sources specializing in manufacturing custom etched parts on advanced photo etching machines with cnc precision. Through our Photo Chemical Etching process, the smallest and most complex designs are made possible such as electrical spring contacts, contact membranes, busbars, antennae and micro antennae, spring fingered contacts, heating elements and battery terminal as well as many other bespoke components to your own designs.

We can machine to print and accept the most common file formats including: .dwg .dxf .iges .step .sat as well as .pdf files. If you don’t see your file format here let us know. Please send us files to: [email protected] We can accept both small and large run jobs of custom optics etching parts.

Our Etching Capabilities

• Etching of many grades of metal and more
• Combining Stamping, Laser Cutting,CNC machining and photochemical etching on sheets up to 2mm thick
• Etching of up to 0.025″ thick sheets as large as 22×12 inches
• Tolerances of ±.0005″ in many applications

How To Etch Optics Parts

Types of Optics Etching

Optic etching can be broadly categorized into two main types: chemical etching and laser etching. Each method has its unique advantages and applications.

Chemical Etching Optics Parts

This technique employs chemical solutions to selectively dissolve material from the surface of the optical substrate. The process begins with the application of a photoresist layer, which is then exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light through a photomask. The exposed areas of the photoresist are subsequently developed, revealing the underlying substrate. A chemical etchant is then applied to the exposed regions, which dissolves the substrate material. This method is widely used for creating fine features and patterns on optical components, such as diffraction gratings, coatings, and surface textures.

Laser Etching Optics Parts

Laser etching utilizes focused laser beams to remove material from the surface of the optical substrate. The precision of laser technology allows for high-resolution etching with minimal thermal effects, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of sensitive optical components. Laser etching is particularly useful for creating complex geometries and intricate patterns that would be difficult to achieve through traditional methods. Additionally, laser etching can be performed on a variety of materials, including glass, plastics, and metals.

Applications of Optic Etching

Optic etching is employed in a wide range of applications across various industries, including telecommunications, consumer electronics, aerospace, and medical devices. Some of the key applications include:

Components That Are Produced By Etching Optics Parts

The popularity of optics makes it a desirable metal for use in fabrication because it is easy to manufacture and has favorable properties for many industrial products.With the photo etching process, the metal is etched evenly without any structural deformations from the hard tooling used in stamping and punching.Since there isn’t a heat point of contact like laser cutting, the parts’ metal properties remain unchanged and free from thermal deformations.Get inspired by our custom etching part projects and contact us to Get Instant Quote for rapid prototype or optics etching parts start from 1pcs.

Metal Etching Certification,Equipment List and Quality

We are committed to enlisting the full support of all employees to continuously improve our processes and enhance quality, thereby fulfilling our customer's needs with defect free products and services, on time and every time

Metal Etching Material

BE-CU is experienced in precision etching various metals, allowing customers the freedom to specify components in hundreds of different materials.

The Surface Treatment Of Metal Etching Parts

Do you want your etching parts to be more corrosion-resistant or get a specific look? Metal finishing service is a essential choice to achieve your design perfectly. BE-CU – metal-etch.com is an accomplished finished parts manufacturer, our workers and craftsman are capable to provide precision metal etching services and a wide range of finishing services including aluminum anodizing, painting, passivation, electroplating, powder coating, polishing, black oxide, conversion coating, abrasive blasting, etc. We offers several common surface finishes to help improve functionality and aesthetics.

After browsing a list of metal finishing services, select a process based on essential considerations, like production time, cost-effectiveness, part tolerance, durability and applications. High-tolerance metal etching parts are not recommended to apply secondary metal surface finish, because the treatment may change the sizes of the finished part through removing or adding a small amount of materials.

Other requirements or custom designs, welcome to contact us for a free quote fast!