Chemical milling works by applying a maskant, usually a resistant material like wax, photoresist, or tape, onto the surface of the workpiece to protect the areas that are not to be removed The workpiece is then submerged in a chemical solution, typically an etchant such as hydrofluoric acid, nitric acid, or ammonium persulfate, which selectively dissolves the exposed areas of the metal, leaving behind the desired features.
The etching process can be controlled by adjusting variables such as temperature, concentration, agitation, and contact time, allowing for precise control over the material removal rate and the final dimensions of the part chem milled. This level of control makes chem milling ideal for producing parts with intricate designs, tight tolerances, and smooth surface finishes.
Applications of Chem Milling