24hr rapid quote
Request a FREE sample pack
All ProductsMETAL FUEL CELL PLATES
Photofab can produce chemically etched plates to support the production of PEM fuel cells. With over 50 years of metal etching experience, Photofab are the perfect partner to deliver advanced components for cutting-edge technological production.
Photofab’s automotive unit work with many leading car manufacturers in the quest for zero emissions through fuel cell plate technology, helping to support innovations in PEM hydrogen fuel cells. Chemical Etching as a process provides the ability to combine fine features, controlled etched channels and high accuracy. The development of fuel cell plates is seen through various applications, from cars and planes through to domestic boilers. All looking for the same outcome: efficiency. As well as providing a competitive advantage over their competitors.
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.
Three Key Photofab Features for Superior Fuel Cell Plates
Photofab offers a complete solution, from design and prototype to full production. Before Photofab can be involved in the development of new products, we undertake a stringent design process by which specifications for component prototypes are carefully conceived. This ensures from the outset that your products are fit for purpose once they are in production. Photofab will work with your designs to create viable products and have the capabilities to scale up to full volume production, no matter the process.
Controlled Depth
Full control of etched channel depths.
Scratch Free
Every care and attention is taken to provide a high-quality finish.
Wet Process
Creates a round channel for solutions to flow through.
Cutting Edge Developments
Photofab has worked with some of the key engineers behind the growing PEM industry to trial new designs for separator plates – which are the conductible plates within a fuel cell stack that act as an anode for one cell and a cathode for the adjacent cells.
Photofab has also worked to produce Heat Exchangers, another integral piece that is used in Fuel Cell Plates. Exchangers are finely etched meshes or channelled plates which rely on extreme precision and innovative design. Photofab has had the experience of working with several organisations in the design, prototype and development of heat exchanges. If you are working in this field, we would love to speak to you to understand your design needs and explain what Photofab can bring to your design.
The benefits of etching metal fuel call plates with Photofab
- Improved electrical and thermal conductivity over non-metal solutions
- Customised parts – you design it – we make it!
- Over 50 years of experience in the metal etching industry
- Fast Delivery
- High volume capabilities
- When compared with Graphite, more resistant to mechanical impact
- Ability to vary thickness of plates, optimising space
- Burr-free & Stress-free manufacturing method
- Prototypes – fast turnaround to meet your needs
- Dedicated Account Manager
DEDICATED engineering
Photofab understands the importance of skilled engineering when designing components and putting them into production. Therefore, we have heavily invested in a dedicated secondary engineering unit, the aim of this is to offer an even greater service and flexibility to our customers.
Originally set up to provide an in-house solution to support the etching division, it has proven so popular with our customers that Photofab are now offering toolroom, forming and finishing as stand-alone services. This means our customers now have access to a new level of flexibility – enjoying the convenience of full-service manufacture or pick and choose services to suit them. It truly is a complete service from Photofab.
Photofab continues to offer cutting-edge services and outstanding lead times, and we can do so because of continuous investment in our people and our processes, leading to class-leading output and lead times – including our rapid 24 hour turnaround service.
The benefits of
working with us
We are world leaders in the development of photochemical technology to produce intricately shaped components. We have produced over 80,000 different components over the years and are highly regarded for our chemical etching process. Our engineers offer many services that you can find here, and will offer advice to improve the product and reduce the costs.
24-hour quotation service
Dedicated account managers
Rapid manufacturing service
Cost saving stock of uni-tooling
Etched fold lines for tool-free forming
Full manufacturing service and supply chain management
Access to manufacturing and technical advice and expertise
Quality accredited to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and SC21 Bronze
The Photofab difference
One of the key reasons Photofab enjoy its customer retention and longevity is the team of dedicated account managers. This ‘single point of contact’ throughout the whole process, ensures a personal service, and pride in the quality and reliability of the entire Photofab service.
Customers rely on their dedicated contacts’ understanding and in-depth knowledge of their specific requirements and know the highest standards will always be met using the most efficient and cost-effective methods.
This consistent customer service is the foundation of our customer loyalty and is maintained throughout every department and every stage of production. Put us to the test for your next project and call one of our account managers on 01480 226699 or use our customer enquiry form, we would love to hear from you.
start your production journey today
If you are looking to find a complete service include dedicated engineering to design and implement your solution, get in touch with us. You’ll be allocated your own dedicated account manager who is always on hand to advise and take care of everything for you. Call Photofab on 01480 226699 or contact us now to see how Photofab can add an extra dimension to your manufacturing project. Keep up to date by following us on LinkedIn and Twitter.
TAKE A LOOK AT OTHER
PRODUCTS FROM PHOTOFAB
Gaskets & Seals
We can produce metal gaskets and seals, and regularly supply high precision custom gaskets and seals for use in multiple industries.
Formed and Flat Springs
We have produced springs in both strip and flat designs, with different sizes and materials such as Beryllium Copper, Phosphor Bronze, Carbon Spring Steel and Stainless Steel.
Masks and Stencils
We have been producing masks and stencils for industrial use for many years, backed by over 55 years of metalworking experience.
Encoder Discs and Actuators
We understand the need for high accuracy, fine apertures, no burrs and additional coatings.
Speaker Grilles
At our state-of-the-art facility, we employ cutting-edge chemical etching techniques to create custom speaker grilles for many different industries and applications, including automotive, stereos and other sound devices.
Formed Components
We can be your all-in-one supplier of metal parts. In addition to manufacturing your parts we are able to offer a variety of forming solutions to suit your individual needs.
Electrical Contacts & Connectors
Chemical Metal Etching is an ideal manufacturing process for electrical and electronic components requiring incredibly tight tolerances.
Filters, Meshes, Screens & Grids
We have a wide experience in the manufacture of metal meshes, filters, screens and grids.
Metal Shims and Spacers
Our shims are often used to absorb tolerances between two components, reducing incompatibilities. The whole manufacturing process is managed in-house by one of our experienced and technically trained account managers.
Metal Laminations
Photofab use their industry-leading chemical etching along with a range of post processes to supply metal laminations of the highest quality.
Metal Fuel Cell Plates
Our automotive unit work with many leading car manufacturers in the quest for zero emissions through fuel cell plate technology, helping to support innovations in PEM hydrogen fuel cells.
To find out how we can help you
Get in touch today
