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Request a FREE sample packThe chemical etching experts
Photofab are world leaders in the development of photochemical technology to produce intricately shaped components through metal etching. Established in 1968, we have built a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer our customers, ensuring they get the best possible solution. We are specialists in chemical etching – also known as chemical milling or photo etching. Photofab have over 50 years of experience chemically etching metals to create precise and intricate components.
For more information on how we can reduce your costs & improve lead time contact our dedicated account managers on 01480 226699 or email enquiries@photofab.co.uk.
Chemical Etching
What are the benefits of Photofab’s chemical etching?
- Fast prototyping
- Rapid 24hr quoting
- Short lead times
- Product Realisation support team
- Large stock of industry standard metals
- Low-cost manufacturing process
- Technically trained dedicated account managers
- Low-cost digital tooling
- Low-cost digital tooling design changes
- Mixed sheet graphic tools for prototypes to full production
- Vast range of metals can be etched
- Etching to Micron accuracy
- Extremely tight tolerances offered
- Half Etched fold lines for tool-free forming
- Half-etched forming to tight tolerances
- Metal properties unaltered by the etching process
- Logos can be etched into flat parts
- Tabbed-in components offered or loose
- No heat or force used in production that could distort parts
- Burr & stress-free process
- Blemish free finish
- As low as 0.010mm sheet thickness up to 1.2mm
- Heat treatment process available to harden metals
- Full hard tool forming service available
- Plating available
- Access to a vast collection of uni form tooling (save thousands and quicken lead times)
- Flat parts available in 24 hours
- Standard rapid service parts ready in 3 working days
- Sample packs available
- Seam Welding and spot welding available
- Quality accredited to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and SC21 Bronze
- Full manufacturing service and supply chain management
Chemical Milling / Chemical Etching
Since 1968, Photofab have specialised in precision chemical etching, building a reputation as the world leaders through exceptional customer service, lead-times and quality management of chemical etching and value-added services.
Dedicated Sheet Metal Engineering
At Photofab we understand that engineering is an essential part of the production journey. That’s why we at Photofab have heavily invested in a dedicated secondary engineering unit, with the aim of this is to offer an even greater service and flexibility to our customers.
Electronic File Handling
Digital files have now become an essential part of our tooling process – digital tooling gives a huge flexibility of design, while allowing our team to easily review and edit designs.
Prototyping to High Volume
Photofab offers their services in every possible volume – we can prototype single pieces and scale all the way up to a high-volume production. We offer this flexibility in a range of our industry leading processes.
Sheet Metal Forming & Tooling Manufacture
Our metal forming and tooling team have built a wealth of experience and expertise to compliment the established etching division and create a full manufacturing service.
Far East Supply Chain
Photofab offers the option of utilising their strong relationship with a quality manufacturing supply chain in the Far East.
Laser Cutting
Our laser cutting service was created to offer customers precision cutting on materials thicker than 1.5mm whilst maintaining the same standards and quality control as our in-house etching services.
Metal Stamping
Metal stamping is best used for high volume applications, as the more volume is produced the better cost effective the initial outlay on the tooling is.
Photo Etching
There is a phrase often associated with Photofab and photo etching, “If you can draw it, we can make it”. With nearly 50 years experience and a large pool of technical knowledge, we are specialists in photo etching of thin metal parts.
Full service
Chemical etching & forming services
From technical advice and digital tooling, through to precision etching, forming, and finishing. This essential set of solutions has been a ‘game changer’ for our customers, not only alleviating supply headaches, but creating a far more efficient process. Our quality managed service ultimately delivers faster with tighter tolerances that ensures less waste and better profitability for our customers.
DEDICATED Account Managers
We pride ourselves on the technical quality and high standards of customer service. Every order at Photofab is assigned to an Account Manager who will be on hand to assist until order completion. It’s this customer-focused service that has led to our high levels of customer retention.
We proudly hold ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001, showcasing our commitment to our service and rigorous quality control, without compromising our environmental standards, We have also been awarded the SC21 Bronze award for six years running, highlighting Photofab’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Latest News
Photofab employees leading by example
At Photofab, our most valued assets are our dedicated employees. We are thrilled to announce several recent promotions to Team Leader for members of the Photofab team who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and commitment to our company’s success.
Previously working as a Production Operator, Jane quickly stood out for her ability to train new employees. She possesses deep knowledge of all production processes and best practices, and is always willing to share her expertise and coach teammates – her guidance helps new starters thrive.
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NEWS from Photofab
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The outstanding value of a dedicated Photofab Account Manager
The importance of Account Managers in a business is unprecedented. These people in particular play a crucial role at Photofab, serving as the primary point of contact for customers, building strong business relationships with them to form a trusting bond.
Latest News
Photofab’s Family Fun Day ensures smiles all-round
The Photofab team was proud to host a Family Fun Day on Saturday 23rd September, which included activities for people of all ages, including games, music, and food and drink. The event was also an opportunity for Photofab to raise money for 3 Pillars Trust, a charity that feeds and provides clothes and bedding to over 60 people each night.
Latest News
Delivering precision etching for leading medical component manufacturers
The medical sector is constantly evolving. Getting essential medical components to market quickly and reliably is critical. That’s why leading medical device companies partner with Photofab for high-precision etched parts.
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