Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] 2D printer-real parts

Joe Vicars wrote:

>
> I am fascinated by Photo Chemical Machining, and the possibility of
> doing this at home somehow converting an inkjet.
> Start with laminated sheets of almost any metal and then the burn
> away the laminate with a 2d printer. Then drop the metal in acid and
> you've got parts. Tiny and intricately detailed up to about .050"
> thick.
> You could make wheels or strips for quadrature encoders ALL day
> long. You could also make PCB which I know has been discussed before.
> Check it out!
>
> http://www.mansfieldgraphics.com/
>

Join the ModelersCAD list on egroups. They have this down to a fine routine.

Among model RR'ers it's routine to see things like expanded metal created
in 1:87 size. I'm working on a railroad station model, the real one has
"security bars" on the windows. I'll make them by photoetch.

I'll send it out to be etched, as the chemicals are messy and I'm no expert
at the process, but it's a routine.

Most common material is half hard shim brass, but nickel silver, phosphor bronze,
and stainless steel are very common too.

0.050 is pushing your luck on thickness, I'd CNC that. But for 0.020 it'll etch fine.
The problem is that the parts tend to undercut as they get thicker.

Annie