Chemical Machining
There are plenty of devices and methods involved in machining, from a simple magnet tool to futuristic laser cutters. Some machining processes have been in used for quite a long time are not commonly know by many. In order to find the right method for a specific operation, it is important that one learns about the different machining processes, both old and new.
Chemical machining is a non-traditional and non-electrical process that removes metal material from selected or overall areas through controlled chemical reaction. A masking material such as tape is used to protect areas that are not to be machined. The process for chemical machining is similar to the ones used for engraving metal plates.
There are two types of chemical machining processes. The first one is called chemical blanking which is used for blanking of a sheet metal work piece. Blanking is a metal working process in which a piece is punched out of the sheet metal. Blanking is similar to punching with the exception of the punched out piece being the main work piece which will undergo further processing. This work piece is also known as a blank.
The second type of chemical machining is called chemical milling in which material is removed from targeted or general areas of the work piece. This is also known as industrial etching.
A downside to chemical machining is that it can only be used for metal work pieces whereas some other non-traditional machining methods such as laser cutting are now also possible to used for wood, plastics and other materials.
