What is Photo Etching?
Photo etching, also known as Photochemical machining (PCM), is a sophisticated chemical milling technique renowned for creating intricate and finely detailed pieces of artwork. This process boasts exceptional precision and accuracy, making it a cost-effective alternative to conventional methods like stamping, punching, laser, or water jet cutting.
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The photo etching procedure involves the following key steps:
- Image Transfer: A film image is transferred onto the chosen pin material, often brass or copper.
- Coating with Photoresist: The designated design area is coated with a light-sensitive material called photoresist.
- UV Exposure: UV light exposure hardens the photoresist, rendering the covered portions resistant to subsequent chemical treatment.
- Selective Acid Application: The acid solution is applied to the unprotected areas of the material.
- Corrosion Process: The acid treatment causes the exposed parts to undergo controlled corrosion, effectively etching away the desired design.
- Cleaning and Refinement: Following the etching process, the remaining acid residues and impurities are removed, yielding a meticulously crafted product.
- Enamel Application: Acid-etched cavities are filled with enamel colors using a syringe, each hue applied individually.
- Oven Firing: The product undergoes an oven firing process to cure and set the enamel colors.
- Cutting and Polishing: The item is then precisely cut into individual pins and subjected to a polishing step, enhancing its visual appeal.
- Optional Epoxy Coating: As a final touch, an epoxy coating can be added to the pins, serving as a protective layer against wear and tear.
Photo-etched Pins Sizes And Pricing
SIZE – QTY | 100 | 200 | 300 | 500 | 750 | 1000 | 2000 | 3000 | 5000 |
0.75″ | $2.94 | $2.25 | $1.63 | $1.33 | $1.23 | $1.05 | $0.99 | $0.94 | $0.84 |
1″ | $3.03 | $2.30 | $1.66 | $1.39 | $1.28 | $1.10 | $1.02 | $0.96 | $0.88 |
1.25″ | $3.06 | $2.33 | $1.68 | $1.44 | $1.33 | $1.10 | $1.04 | $0.98 | $0.89 |
1.5″ | $3.13 | $2.46 | $1.83 | $1.45 | $1.34 | $1.17 | $1.09 | $1.00 | $0.95 |
1.75″ | $3.25 | $2.75 | $2.15 | $1.74 | $1.63 | $1.44 | $1.29 | $1.21 | $1.12 |
2″ | $3.41 | $2.89 | $2.38 | $1.88 | $1.76 | $1.67 | $1.58 | $1.46 | $1.37 |
Advantages of Photo-Etched Pins
Photo-etched pins offer compelling benefits, particularly for intricate and complex designs without shadows or gradients. These advantages include:
- Intricate Design: Well-suited for intricate and detailed designs that lack shadowing or gradient effects.
- Color Variety: Photo-etched pins provide a broad spectrum of color choices for vibrant and customizable creations.
- Lightweight Construction: These pins exhibit reduced weight due to their thinner construction, which can be advantageous for larger pin designs.
However, if your design calls for shadows or gradients, we recommend exploring offset printed pins for optimal results.
If you find that Photo Etched Pins align with your preferences, we cordially invite you to submit your design to us. Our commitment includes providing complimentary quotes for all our products, ensuring a seamless and transparent experience.
Important Note
May 28th. – July 31st. The peak of our season. Due to the high volume of orders, please allow extra time for production and shipping.
Orders placed during this period Custom Pins Central can not guarantee delivery dates due to delays in shipping out of our control. Please contact us to ensure that we can meet you in hands date you desire before placing your order.
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