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.
We have different types of metal available in the market, but most of them can hardly be affordable for a common man. However, metals react differently when they come into contact with acids. In regard to this, before buying any acid anticipated for steel etching, you have to consult the distributors on which acid is suitable for a particular metal.
The metal you intend to work on should be prepared thoroughly. You should remove all the burrs in the parts that you are working on by either filing or use a rough sandpaper to clear them. This can only be done on the side that you are working on especially when you are working on a steel plate. Wire brush, steel wool and are also good for cleaning the steel plate.
Transferring the image or the design you want on the steel can be tricky for a starter. However, the simplicity and the complexity of your design will depend on the method used to lay the design on the metal. You can draw by freehand or replicate a design from another steel. Moreover, the design should not resemble another one not unless you are allowed to use the trademark.
Considering the fact that the whole metal plate cannot be immersed in the acidic basin, you should have some resist materials. This includes paint and tapes that can cover the points that you do not need to etch. Cover them properly leaving the points that your intended design will cover. The back and the edges of the steel plate should be concealed completely with a tape to prevent them from etching.
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.
Every industry has its safety and precautions rules, but they vary. However, when working with acids of any nature, you should not ignore any safety precaution because most of them are highly porous and can lead to disability among other lifetime defects. Some of the acids are also known to cause fire, and you should consult the distributors before using any of them.
We have different types of metal available in the market, but most of them can hardly be affordable for a common man. However, metals react differently when they come into contact with acids. In regard to this, before buying any acid anticipated for steel etching, you have to consult the distributors on which acid is suitable for a particular metal.
The metal you intend to work on should be prepared thoroughly. You should remove all the burrs in the parts that you are working on by either filing or use a rough sandpaper to clear them. This can only be done on the side that you are working on especially when you are working on a steel plate. Wire brush, steel wool and are also good for cleaning the steel plate.
Transferring the image or the design you want on the steel can be tricky for a starter. However, the simplicity and the complexity of your design will depend on the method used to lay the design on the metal. You can draw by freehand or replicate a design from another steel. Moreover, the design should not resemble another one not unless you are allowed to use the trademark.
Considering the fact that the whole metal plate cannot be immersed in the acidic basin, you should have some resist materials. This includes paint and tapes that can cover the points that you do not need to etch. Cover them properly leaving the points that your intended design will cover. The back and the edges of the steel plate should be concealed completely with a tape to prevent them from etching.
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.
Every industry has its safety and precautions rules, but they vary. However, when working with acids of any nature, you should not ignore any safety precaution because most of them are highly porous and can lead to disability among other lifetime defects. Some of the acids are also known to cause fire, and you should consult the distributors before using any of them.
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