Module-3

CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)

Contents
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM): Elements of the process, Resists
(maskants), Etchants. Types of chemical machining process-chemical
blanking process, chemical milling process. Process characteristics of
CHM: material removal rate, accuracy, surface finish, advantages,
limitations and applications of chemical machining process.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Elements of the process

Chemical machining, also known as chemical etching or chemical milling, is a

manufacturing process used to selectively remove material from a workpiece using
chemical reactions. The process involves several elements:
• Workpiece: The workpiece is the material from which the desired part or
component is made. It can be metallic or non-metallic, such as stainless steel,
aluminum, brass, or even polymers.
• Masking: Chemical machining uses a masking technique to protect specific areas
of the workpiece from being etched. The masking material is typically a resistant
substance, such as photoresist or a special polymer film, applied to the surface of
the workpiece.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Elements of the process

• Etchant: The etchant is a chemical solution or mixture used to selectively remove

material from the exposed areas of the workpiece. The etchant is chosen based
on its reactivity with the workpiece material and its ability to dissolve it
effectively. Common etchants include acids, alkalis, or salt solutions.
• Resist: The resist material is used to create the masking pattern on the
workpiece. It is applied over the surface, and after exposure to a patterned light
or chemical treatment, it becomes either soluble or insoluble, allowing for the
selective removal during the etching process.
• Etching Equipment: Chemical machining requires specialized equipment to
facilitate the etching process. This equipment includes tanks or containers to
hold the etchant, pumps or agitators for circulation, temperature control
systems, and rinsing or neutralizing stations.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Elements of the process

• Process Control: Chemical machining involves careful process control to achieve precise
and consistent results. Factors such as etchant concentration, temperature, agitation,
and etching time need to be controlled to ensure accurate material removal and
dimensional accuracy.
• Post-Processing: After the etching process, the workpiece may require additional
treatments or finishing steps. This can include cleaning, rinsing, drying, and any
necessary surface treatments like passivation or coating.
Chemical machining is a versatile process widely used in various industries for
manufacturing complex components with high precision. It offers advantages such as
cost-effectiveness, scalability, and the ability to create intricate geometries that may be
challenging with other machining methods.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Chemical Machining process

(1) Clean the raw part, (2) apply maskant, (3) scribe, cut and peel the maskant from
areas to be etched, (4) etch and (5) remove the maskant and clean
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Chemical Machining process
Chemical machining is a controlled dissolution of workpiece material by means of a strong
chemical reagent called etchant.
The workpiece is immersed in the etchant where the material of workpiece having no protective
coating is removed by the chemical action of etchant.
The areas of the work piece which are not to be machined are covered with Maskant.
Maskant is nothing but a it is a layer of a chemical resistant material which does not allow the
etchant or chemical to react or reach with the workpiece surface and dissolve it.
The work material is then submerged in a hot chemical solution and dissolution of unprotected
area takes place.
After machining, masking material is removed from the surface of work piece and part is cleaned
and inspected.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Resists (maskants)

• In chemical machining, resists or maskants are used to protect specific areas of

the workpiece from being etched by the chemical solution. The choice of resist
or maskant depends on the specific requirements of the application, including
the type of material being etched and the desired pattern or design. Here are
some commonly used resists or maskants in chemical machining:
• Photoresists: Photoresists are light-sensitive materials that are commonly used
in photolithography processes. They are applied as a thin layer onto the
workpiece surface and then exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light through a
photomask, which defines the desired pattern. The exposed areas of the
photoresist become either soluble or insoluble, depending on the type of
photoresist used. The unexposed areas can be easily removed, allowing the
underlying material to be etched.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Resists (maskants)

• Dry Film Resists: Dry film resists are similar to photoresists but are pre-applied as
a dry film onto a carrier sheet. They are then laminated onto the workpiece
surface using heat and pressure. The film is then exposed to UV light through a
photomask, and the unexposed areas are washed away, leaving the resist pattern
for etching.
• Liquid Resists: Liquid resists are typically used for large-area masking or for
irregularly shaped workpieces. They are applied as a liquid coating using
techniques such as spraying, dipping, or brushing. The liquid resist can be cured
or dried through heat or UV exposure to form a solid maskant that protects the
underlying material during etching.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Resists (maskants)
• Tapes and Films: Adhesive tapes or films with chemical resistance properties can also
be used as resists or maskants in chemical machining. They are typically cut into the
desired shape and applied directly onto the workpiece surface. These tapes and films
provide physical protection against the etchant and can be easily removed after the
etching process.
• Wax or Grease: In some cases, waxes or greases with chemical resistance properties
are used as resists. These materials are applied onto the workpiece surface by brushing,
dipping, or other application methods. They provide a physical barrier to the etchant
and can be easily removed after the etching process.
The choice of resist or maskant depends on factors such as the desired resolution, the complexity of
the pattern, the material being etched, and the specific requirements of the application. Each type of
resist has its own advantages and limitations, and the selection should be based on the specific needs
of the chemical machining process.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Resists (maskants)
Cut and peel method
Masking methods
Maskant is initially applied on a large
Cut and peel method surface area and scribed or cut with a sharp
knife followed by careful peeing of the
Photographic resist method mask from the selected area.

Screen resist method This method is used for those applications

where thick maskants are laid on work
surface due to the necessary for
withstanding high exposure to the etchant
for extended periods.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Resists (maskants) Photographic resist method
Masking methods Mask is applied on the work surface using
photographic techniques.
Cut and peel method
The masking material contains photosensitive
Photographic resist method chemicals, which are
exposed to light through a negative image of areas
Screen resist method to be etched.

These areas are then removed using photographic

developing techniques, remaining area is unexposed
to etching.
Used for fabrication of integrated and printed
circuit boards
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Resists (maskants) Screen resist method
Masking methods The maskant is painted through a stainless steel
mesh, which has areas blocked off to allow selective
Cut and peel method passage for the maskant.

Photographic resist method The blocked pattern corresponds to the image that is
to be etched.
Screen resist method
The screen is pressed against the work surface and
the maskant is rolled on.

When the screen is removed, the maskant remains

on the work part in the desired pattern.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Resists (maskants) : factors affecting selection of maskants

Chemical resistance required

Inert to the chemical reagent
Be tough enough to withstand handling
Adhere well to the Workpiece
Allow itself to be scribed easily
To be removed easily after etching
Able to withstand heat generated during etching
Availability and cost
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Etchants

• Chemical machining involves the use of specific etchants, which are chemical solutions
or mixtures designed to selectively remove material from the workpiece during the
machining process. The choice of etchant depends on the composition of the
workpiece material and the desired results. Here are some common etchants used in
chemical machining:

Acids: Acids are frequently used as etchants in chemical machining due to their ability to
dissolve many metals. Some commonly used acids include:
• Nitric Acid (HNO3): Nitric acid is used to etch metals such as aluminum, copper, and their alloys.
• Hydrochloric Acid (HCl): Hydrochloric acid is commonly used for etching steel, stainless steel, and
other ferrous metals.
• Sulfuric Acid (H2SO4): Sulfuric acid is used for etching materials like titanium, nickel, and certain
stainless steels.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Etchants

• Alkalis: Alkalis, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH),

are employed as etchants for specific materials. They are often used for etching
aluminum and aluminum alloys.
• Salt Solutions: Salt solutions, such as sodium chloride (NaCl) or ferric chloride
(FeCl3), can be used as etchants for certain metals. For example, ferric chloride is
commonly used to etch copper-based alloys.
• Specialty Etchants: There are specific etchants designed for particular materials
or applications. These may include proprietary formulations or mixtures tailored
for specific metals, such as etchants for nickel alloys or specialized etchants for
printed circuit boards (PCBs).
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Etchants

• It's important to note that the etching process requires careful control of various
parameters, such as etchant concentration, temperature, agitation, and etching
time, to achieve precise and consistent results.
• Additionally, safety precautions must be followed when working with etchants,
including appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to
handling and disposal guidelines.
• The selection of the etchant is critical to achieving the desired material removal
rate, surface finish, and dimensional accuracy in chemical machining.
• It is recommended to consult with experts or refer to established guidelines and
resources for specific etching requirements and procedures.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Etchants : factors affecting selection of etchants

• Workpiece material
• Rate of material removal (Penetration rate, mm/min)
• Surface finish required
• Type of etchant used (There is a necessity to ensure that maskant and
enchant should be chemically inactive)
• Readily neutralize and dispose of its waste products
• Availability and cost
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Types of chemical machining process-chemical blanking process

• Chemical blanking is used for parts that are otherwise typically produced by mechanical
blanking presses from thin plates and foil material.

• With mechanical presses, vibrations, backlash, and part distortion will make smaller parts
difficult to produce. Chemical blanking becomes a favorable solution in such a case.

• The process is used chiefly on their sheets and foils. Almost any metal can be worked by this
process. However, it is not recommended for materials thinner than 2 mm.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Types of chemical machining process-chemical blanking process
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Types of chemical machining process-chemical blanking process
Steps of chemical blanking:
• Chemical blanking process has several steps for producing machine parts. These are
given below:
[Link] pre cleaning process:
• The surface of the workpiece metal is cleaned thoroughly, degreased and pickled by
acid and alkalis. Pre-cleaning is of utmost importance in order to remove oil, grease,
dirt, rust or any foreign substance for the work surface so as to produce a good
adhesion of the masking material. The material is allowed to dry.
[Link]:
• Masking involves covering the portions of the workpiece metal where material is not to
be removed by the chemical action of the etchant. A suitable maskant, say a polymer,
rubber, or any other material is selected based on the workpiece material. The maskant
is applied on the work surface by various methods like dip, brush, spray, roller,
electro-coating, and as well as adhesive tapes.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Types of chemical machining process-chemical blanking process

Steps of chemical blanking:

[Link]:
• Removal of material from the workpiece take place by etching process.
• The workpiece metal is either sprayed continuously with a selected etchant like ferric
chloride on those portions where the material is to removed, or immersed in a tank of
agitated etchant, where the etchant chemically attack those portions not masked.
• Erosion of the work material takes place both inward and laterally from the
exposed(unmasked) surface.
• The work material is converted in to metallic salt, which is the dissolved and carried
away in the etchant solution.
• There are two application of material through etching. Immersion type and Spray type.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Types of chemical machining process-chemical blanking process

Steps of chemical blanking:

[Link]:
• With the immersion type, the part is immersed in the corrosive liquid, and the
liquid is constantly stirred. Air injection is the widely used stirring method.
• The spray method of etching employs specially designed etching machines. Spray
type machine has nozzle(s) that spray the etchant, and Paddle type has a rotating
wheel with paddles that spray the etchant.
• Both types are made in vertical and horizontal configurations, as well as single
sided etching and dual side etching types.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Types of chemical machining process-chemical blanking process

Steps of chemical blanking:

[Link]:
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Types of chemical machining process-chemical blanking process

Steps of chemical blanking:

4. Demasking: When etching is completed, the mask is removed either through
mechanical or chemical means Any etchant on the material is also removed with a
wash or clear, cold water. A deoxidizing bath may also be required in order to
remove the oxide films left on the surface of the work material.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Types of chemical machining process-chemical milling process

Chemical milling is the process used to shape the metals to an exact tolerance by the chemical
etching.
The amount of metal removed, or depth of etch, is controlled by the amount of immersion time
in the etching solution.
Used to produce shallow cavities, complex profiles on a plates and sheets and also reduce
weight.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Types of chemical machining process-chemical milling process
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Types of chemical machining process-chemical milling process
Pre-Cleaning process: Proper cleaning is necessary to ensure uniform adhesion of the maskant.

Masking : The mask is applied by dip, flow-coat, or spray techniques, depending upon part size
and configuration. Two or more coats are applied toobtain sufficient protection from the
etchant. Ex: elastomers and plastics (poly vinyl chloride, polyethylene and polysterene)

Etching : Patterns are placed on the masked and cured part by using a template as a guide and
scribing the mask with a knife. The un masked surfaces of the work material are machined
chemically with selected etchants. Temperature control and agitation during chemical milling is
important to obtain uniform depth of cut and higher MRR. The material is converted in to
metallic salt, which is then dissolved and carried away in the etchant solution.

DeMasking : After etching, mask is removed and deoxidizing the materials.

CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process parameters of CHM:

• The process parameters in chemical machining play a crucial role in achieving the
desired material removal rate, surface finish, and dimensional accuracy. Here are
the key process parameters involved in chemical machining:
• Etchant Selection: The choice of etchant depends on the composition of the
workpiece material and the desired results. Factors to consider include the
etchant's chemical reactivity with the material, its selectivity towards the desired
material, and the desired etch rate.
• Etchant Concentration: The concentration of the etchant solution affects the
material removal rate. Higher etchant concentrations generally result in faster
etching, but excessive concentrations can lead to undesirable side effects such as
over etching or undercutting. The etchant concentration is typically specified by
the etchant supplier or determined through experimentation.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process parameters of CHM:

• Temperature: The temperature of the etchant solution has a significant impact on the
etching process. Higher temperatures generally increase the material removal rate,
while lower temperatures slow down the etching rate. The temperature is controlled
using a temperature-controlled bath or by adjusting the etchant solution's heating or
cooling mechanisms.
• Agitation: Agitation of the etchant solution helps to improve the uniformity of the
etching process. It ensures fresh etchant is in contact with the workpiece surface,
promotes mass transfer, and reduces the formation of stagnant regions. Common
agitation methods include mechanical stirring, ultrasonic agitation, or the use of a
recirculating pump.
• Time: The duration of the etching process, commonly referred to as the etch time,
determines the amount of material removal. The etch time is typically calculated based
on the desired material removal rate and the etchant's known or estimated etch rate.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process parameters of CHM:

• Masking Material and Quality: The selection and quality of the masking material
are critical to achieving accurate and precise masking. The masking material
should have appropriate chemical resistance to withstand the etchant without
degradation or permeation. Proper adhesion and sealing of the mask onto the
workpiece surface are crucial to prevent etchant penetration into protected
areas.
• Masking Technique: The chosen masking technique, such as physical masks,
photoresist masks, or stencils, influences the precision and complexity of the
masking process. The masking technique should be selected based on the
desired pattern, resolution, and ease of application.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process characteristics of CHM: material removal rate

• Depends on the type of etchant used.

• Normally limited to 0.02-0.04 mm/min.

• Higher MRR have many adverse effects including poor surface finish, increased under cut,
higher heating and attack on the bond between the maskant and work surface.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process characteristics of CHM: material removal rate

• Etchant Concentration: Higher etchant concentrations generally result in higher

MRRs. As the concentration increases, the etchant becomes more reactive,
leading to faster material removal. However, excessively high concentrations can
cause overetching or undercutting, which may negatively affect the accuracy and
surface finish of the machined part.
• Temperature: Increasing the temperature of the etchant solution generally
enhances the MRR. Higher temperatures accelerate the chemical reaction
between the etchant and the workpiece material, resulting in faster material
removal. However, the temperature should be controlled within a suitable range
to prevent excessive etching and maintain dimensional accuracy.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process characteristics of CHM: material removal rate

• Agitation: Agitation of the etchant solution promotes mass transfer and

enhances the MRR. It ensures that fresh etchant comes into contact with the
workpiece surface, facilitating more efficient material removal. Adequate
agitation helps to minimize localized etching and maintain uniformity in the
etching process.
• Surface Area: The surface area of the workpiece directly affects the MRR. A
larger surface area allows for more material to be exposed to the etchant,
resulting in a higher MRR. Conversely, a smaller surface area reduces the
material removal rate. The design and arrangement of the workpiece should
consider the desired MRR for efficient machining.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process characteristics of CHM: material removal rate

• Etching Time: The duration of the etching process, known as the etch time, impacts the MRR. Longer
etching times generally lead to higher material removal. However, it is crucial to balance the etching
time with other factors, such as the desired accuracy, surface finish, and dimensional control. Over
etching can occur if the etching time exceeds the required limit, affecting the part's integrity.
• Material Properties: The properties of the workpiece material, such as its composition and reactivity
with the etchant, can affect the MRR. Different materials have different etch rates and reactivity
levels, which directly influence the MRR. It is essential to consider the material properties and choose
suitable etchants to achieve the desired MRR for specific materials.
Finding the right balance of process parameters is crucial to achieving the desired MRR while
maintaining dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and part integrity in chemical machining. Process
optimization through experimentation and continuous monitoring is typically conducted to determine
the optimal process parameters for achieving the desired MRR
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process characteristics of CHM: accuracy and surface finish

• Depending upon undercut produced.

• Tolerance on depth of cut increases when machining larger depth at higher machining rates.

• Accuracy of ± 0.01mm can be achieved.

• Surface finish depends on MRR.

• Typically 0.1- 0.8 μm can be achieved and depending upon initial roughness.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process characteristics of CHM: accuracy and surface finish

• Etchant Concentration: The etchant concentration can affect both accuracy and
surface finish. Higher concentrations generally result in faster material removal,
but excessive concentrations can lead to overetching, which can compromise
dimensional accuracy and surface finish. It is important to optimize the etchant
concentration to achieve the desired material removal rate while maintaining
control over the etching process.
• Temperature: The temperature of the etchant solution affects the rate of the
chemical reaction and, consequently, the accuracy and surface finish. Higher
temperatures can increase the material removal rate, but they may also lead to
increased etchant reactivity, which can result in less controlled etching and
surface roughness. Careful temperature control is essential to balance the
desired etch rate with surface quality.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process characteristics of CHM: accuracy and surface finish

• Agitation: Proper agitation of the etchant solution is important for achieving

uniform material removal and surface finish. Adequate agitation helps to ensure
a fresh supply of etchant is in contact with the workpiece surface, minimizing
localized etching and improving surface quality. Insufficient agitation can lead to
uneven etching and surface roughness.
• Masking Material and Quality: The masking material plays a critical role in
maintaining accuracy and surface finish. The choice of an appropriate masking
material with good chemical resistance and adhesion properties is crucial. A
high-quality mask that effectively protects the desired areas from the etchant is
necessary to achieve accurate dimensional control and prevent surface defects.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process characteristics of CHM: accuracy and surface finish

• Etching Time: The duration of the etching process, or etch time, directly affects
the accuracy and surface finish. Longer etching times can lead to increased
material removal and, in turn, larger dimensional deviations and surface
roughness. Controlling the etching time within the desired range is crucial to
achieve the required accuracy and surface quality.
• Surface Preparation: The initial surface condition of the workpiece can influence
the accuracy and surface finish. Prior surface treatments, such as cleaning,
degreasing, and surface conditioning, can help ensure uniform etching and
improve the surface quality of the final part.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Process characteristics of CHM: accuracy and surface finish

• Masking Technique: The chosen masking technique, such as physical masks,

photoresist masks, or stencils, can impact the accuracy and surface finish. The
masking technique should be selected based on the desired pattern, resolution,
and ease of application to achieve accurate masking and minimize surface
defects.
It's important to note that the interplay of these parameters can be complex, and optimizing
them requires careful consideration and experimentation. Process optimization, monitoring,
and adjustment are typically performed to achieve the desired accuracy and surface finish in
chemical machining.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Advantages and limitations of chemical machining process

Advantages:

• Complex Geometries: Chemical machining can produce intricate and complex

shapes that may be difficult or impossible to achieve with conventional
machining methods. It allows for the precise removal of material from specific
areas, enabling the creation of intricate features, thin walls, and fine details.
• Burr-Free and Stress-Free: Chemical machining produces parts with no burrs or
residual stresses. The process is non-mechanical, so it eliminates the need for
cutting forces, reducing the risk of part deformation and stress-related issues.
This makes it suitable for delicate or thin materials that are prone to deformation
or damage during traditional machining.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Advantages and limitations of chemical machining process

Advantages:
• Material Versatility: Chemical machining can be applied to a wide range of materials,
including metals, alloys, and certain non-metallic materials like polymers. It is not
limited to specific material hardness or toughness, allowing for the machining of both
soft and hard materials.
• Cost-Effective: Chemical machining can be cost-effective for large production runs or
when working with complex designs. The process eliminates the need for specialized
cutting tools, reduces setup time, and enables the simultaneous machining of multiple
parts. It also minimizes material waste as the chemical etching is a subtractive process.
• High Precision and Accuracy: Chemical machining offers excellent dimensional accuracy
and repeatability. The etching process can achieve tight tolerances and fine resolution,
making it suitable for applications where precision is critical, such as aerospace,
electronics, and medical industries.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Advantages and limitations of chemical machining process

Limitations:
• Limited Material Thickness: Chemical machining is generally more suitable for
thin materials, typically up to a few millimeters thick. Etching thick materials may
require longer etching times, which can impact production efficiency and result
in increased cost.
• Material Compatibility: Chemical machining is not applicable to all materials.
Some materials may not be chemically reactive or may require highly specialized
etchants, which can limit the range of materials that can be effectively machined.
• Masking Complexity: The process of masking the workpiece to protect desired
areas can be complex, especially for intricate patterns or designs. The
preparation and application of masks or resist materials require careful attention
to detail to ensure accurate masking and proper adhesion.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Advantages and limitations of chemical machining process

Limitations:
• Chemical Handling and Environmental Considerations: Chemical machining
involves the use of etchants, which can be hazardous if not handled properly.
Safety precautions must be followed, and appropriate measures should be taken
for the storage, handling, and disposal of chemicals. Additionally, the
environmental impact of chemical waste disposal needs to be carefully managed.
• Process Control: Achieving consistent results in chemical machining requires
tight control over process parameters such as etchant concentration,
temperature, agitation, and timing. Process variations can affect the material
removal rate, surface finish, and dimensional accuracy, necessitating meticulous
process control and monitoring.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Applications of chemical machining process

• Aerospace Industry: Chemical machining is widely used in the aerospace industry for
manufacturing components such as turbine blades, engine parts, and structural
components. Its ability to produce complex geometries and maintain precise tolerances
is critical for aerospace applications.
• Electronics and Microelectronics: Chemical machining is employed in the production of
printed circuit boards (PCBs), where it is used to selectively etch copper traces and
create circuit patterns. It is also utilized for manufacturing microelectromechanical
systems (MEMS) devices, semiconductor components, and microfluidic devices.
• Medical Industry: Chemical machining is utilized in the medical industry for
manufacturing various components, including surgical instruments, implants, and
medical devices. The process can create intricate shapes, optimize surface finishes, and
achieve high dimensional accuracy required for medical applications.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Applications of chemical machining process

• Automotive Industry: Chemical machining is employed in the automotive

industry for manufacturing parts such as fuel injector nozzles, engine
components, and transmission parts. It enables the production of complex
shapes and the removal of precise amounts of material to achieve desired
performance characteristics.
• Precision Tooling and Molds: Chemical machining is used to manufacture
precision tooling, molds, and dies for various industries. It can produce intricate
patterns, fine details, and smooth surfaces required for molding and forming
operations.
• Consumer Electronics: Chemical machining is used in the production of
consumer electronic devices, including mobile phones, tablets, and wearables. It
allows for precise etching of metal casings, creating aesthetic designs and
functional features.
CHEMICAL MACHINING (CHM)
Applications of chemical machining process

• Defense and Military: Chemical machining is utilized in defense and military

applications for manufacturing components such as weapon systems, aircraft
parts, and defense equipment. It enables the production of complex and
lightweight parts with high precision and reliability.
• Jewelry and Decorative Items: Chemical machining is employed in the jewelry
industry for producing intricate and ornate designs. It allows for the creation of
precise patterns, textures, and engravings on metal surfaces.
• Optics and Photonics: Chemical machining is used in the optics and photonics
industry for manufacturing components such as optical filters, mirrors, and
lenses. It enables the production of precise optical surfaces and complex shapes
required for optical systems.