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All SectorsChemical etching and the rail industry
The rail industry is a cornerstone of global infrastructure delivering vital connectivity with its continual advancing IT technology. It is an industry that encompasses different developments into its day to day operations from software development to metal component requirements.
This sector is amongst those that depend on precise manufacturing technologies in both its function and its evolution.
How chemical etching can help the rail industry
Many of the parts used in the manufacturing of rolling stock and signal controls require high levels of precision machined parts. Chemical etching is used extensively to produce intricate components of the highest quality for the rail industry.
High levels of complexity and precision
Components with intricate designs and fine details, chemical etching is the go to option for this sector as it suits the exact specifications and tight tolerances in the parts required. The process of chemical etching can achieve complex geometries in a variety of metals that would be difficult in other traditional machining methods.
Highly cost effective
Chemical etching components in any volume can be extremely beneficial in terms of cost. Where volumes are increased, metal etching is much more suitable due to improved scalability and reduced material wastage compared to CNC milling.
Chemical etching can accommodate for highly stringent, tight tolerance manufacturing requirements, ensuring precision and consistency in rail infrastructure and componentry production. The process is ideal for gasket and shim manufacturing.
Increased level of material integrity
Traditional machining methods can introduce mechanical stress and heat-affected zones, potentially compromising material integrity. Chemical etching, being a non-contact process, preserves these properties. This can help to increase longevity for particular components.
We take great care in the selection of the right metal for the component application. Wherever possible, we use a special photo-etching grade, which is more uniform in thickness and flatter than normal stock. Our engineers and metallurgists will be pleased to advise on the grade of metal suitable for your application.
An extensive range of metals in various degrees of hardness and thickness are held in stock ready to meet a Rapid Delivery service. Metal thickness of 0.005 to 1.5 mm is suitable for through etching, while any thickness of sheet material can be surface etched.
The following list of metals is suitable for chemical etching and forming, and many are held in stock. If you don’t see what you need, please telephone us on 01480 226699 or contact us using the form below.
Stainless Steels
Austenitic (301, 302, 304, 316, S526, S527), Martensitic (321, 410, 420), Precipitation Hardened (17/7), Heat Resisting (309, 310)
Other Steels
Mild Steel, Carbon Steel, Tool Steel, Spring Steel, Transil, Losil.
Nickel Alloys
Nichrome, Mu Metal, Nickel Copper (70/30), Inconel, Nickel Brazing Foil.
Nickel/Iron Alloys
Invar, Alloy 42, Kovar, Radio Metal.
Copper
Tough Pitch 101, Oxygen free – High Conductivity.
Copper Alloys
Brass, Phosphor Bronze, Beryllium Copper, Nickel Silver, Ferry Constantan.
Aluminium and Aluminium Alloys
Silver and Alloys
Silver, Silver Alloys, Silver/Copper, Silver/Palladium, Silver Brazing Alloys.
Applications of Chemical Etching in the Rail Industry
As well as gasket and shim designs, Chemical etching is instrumental in the manufacturing of a multitude of critical, and non-critical, small parts for rail applications.
We take time to understand the different requirements of any metal rail application created for our clients. This means that each and every component that comes out of our manufacturing facilities match demands ensuring optimal performance for the end user and no complaints.
Common applications for rail metal etched parts:
- Brackets and Clamps: Unique shapes can be made via the chem etching process and is essential for the secure attachment of various rail components.
- EMI/RFI Shielding: Intricate parts are attainable with chemical etching to create products that protect sensitive electronics from electromagnetic interference.
- Brake Components: Precision-etched brake components ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Electrode Plates: Precisely etched electrode plates for battery systems or other electrical components can be manufactured with high accuracy and consistency.
- Rail Switches and Crossings: Chemical etching can produce highly detailed and durable components for rail switches and crossings, including intricate patterns and tight tolerances.
The demand for lightweight and durable components is a non-negotable for the rail industry. Chemical etching enables the production of thin, lightweight components without compromising strength, contributing to overall energy efficiency and performance enhancement.
The benefits of chemical etching for rail applications
Burr-free & stress-free manufacturing method
High temperature and corrosion resistance
Single piece up to high volume
Fully traceable and managed in-house
Very high tolerance
Variable bar heights
High accuracy and consistency
Cost effective tooling and manufacture
Fast turnaround, from 24 hours
ISO 9001, 14001, 18001 and SC21 accredited
Single point of contact with our Account Managers
Over 56 years in the chemical etching industry, servicing the Rail industry.
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 given an account manager who is always on hand to advise and take care of everything for you. Call us on 01480 226699 or contact us now to see how we can add an extra dimension to your manufacturing project. Keep up to date by following us on LinkedIn.
TAKE A LOOK AT OTHER
SECTORS we Supply
Communications
Chemical etching can be a crucial process in the manufacture of communications equipment.
Aerospace and Defence
We have an established background in meeting the needs of the Aerospace and Defence sectors. The chemical etching process is ideal for producing components that are used in critical applications.
Life Sciences
We are proud to offer components vital to the life sciences sector in a cost-effective manner through our chemical etching services.
Medical
Chemical etching offers a cost-effective way to mass produce small, intricate components for use in devices such as ventilators, but also in many other medical devices.
Optical
We are highly experienced within the optical sector. The most typical components we produce for optical use are encoder discs and actuators.
Renewables & renewable energy
Chemical etching is a clean, environmentally friendly manufacturing process that produces minimal waste and has a low carbon footprint.
Electronics
Currently, 90% of industry uses electronics to advance the functionality of their products – showing the scale of demand for intricate electronics products.
Scientific
The scientific sector shares many similarities with that of the life sciences sector. They are both reliant on the constant innovation of technology to be able to power their research goals.
Automotive
We are a specialist supplier to the automotive industry. Chemical etching is an ideal solution for the manufacture of certain specialist automotive parts.
Rail
The rail industry is a cornerstone of global infrastructure delivering vital connectivity with its continual advancing IT technology. It’s a critical industry which demands intricate parts to run smoothly.
To find out how we can help you
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