Chemical milling, also known as chemical etching or chemical machining, is a subtractive manufacturing process that utilizes strong chemical solutions to selectively remove material from metal parts. The process begins by coating the workpiece with a maskant, a protective material that resists the chemical reagent. The masked parts are then submerged in a chemical bath that dissolves the exposed areas, leaving behind the desired shape. This process can be repeated multiple times to achieve the desired depth of etching.
One of the key advantages of chemical milling is its ability to produce complex and precise parts with minimal tool wear. Unlike traditional machining methods, which rely on cutting or grinding, chemical milling does not require any physical contact with the workpiece. This results in less stress on the material and eliminates the risk of mechanical distortion. Additionally, chemical milling can be used on a wide range of metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and more.
Applications of chemical milling