Photochemical Machining

Photochemical Machining

Photochemical machining (PCM) is an advanced chemical etching process that enables the production of high-precision metal components with intricate geometries and fine details. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods such as stamping, laser cutting, or CNC machining, PCM removes material through a controlled chemical reaction, ensuring burr-free edges, no heat-affected zones, and no mechanical stress on the material. This process is particularly well-suited for thin-gauge metals (typically ranging from 0.0005” to 0.040” thick), including stainless steel, aluminum, copper alloys, titanium, and specialty metals. The ability to achieve tolerances as tight as ±0.0001” (10% of material thickness) makes PCM ideal for manufacturing complex parts with fine features, such as shields, screens, precision springs, fuel cell plates, and medical components.

Beyond its precision, photochemical machining offers cost-effective scalability, allowing for low-cost prototyping as well as high-volume production without the need for expensive tooling modifications. The process seamlessly integrates with forming, plating, and surface finishing techniques, enabling manufacturers to deliver fully functional, high-performance components for industries such as aerospace, medical, automotive, electronics, and telecommunications. With its unique ability to produce thin, intricate parts with exceptional accuracy, PCM remains a key technology in modern precision manufacturing.

Precision Without Compromise

Photochemical machining (PCM) is a highly precise and versatile metal fabrication process that enables the creation of complex, burr-free components with tight tolerances and intricate geometries. Ideal for thin-gauge metals, PCM is widely used in industries such as aerospace, medical, automotive, electronics, and telecommunications, where precision and material integrity are critical. Unlike traditional machining methods, PCM does not introduce mechanical stress or heat distortion, making it perfect for delicate and high-performance applications.

By leveraging cost-effective, tooling-free production, PCM allows for rapid prototyping and scalable manufacturing without the high costs associated with hard tooling. Whether for precision filters, shielding components, microfluidic devices, or intricate metal parts, this process delivers high accuracy, superior edge quality, and design flexibility. Choosing photochemical machining ensures efficient, high-quality production tailored to the most demanding industry requirements.