Stainless Steel Etching Processes

The chemical etching process is perfect for a consistent, durable, accurate solution, designed to perform in the harshest of environments, including outdoors. With over 50 years’ experience working with all market sectors, all of the etched stainless steel products we supply are manufactured to the highest standards — ISO 9001:2015.

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What Is Stainless Steel Chemical Etching?

It is a specialised process where an acid solution is used to create designs on sheets of stainless steel. The areas not masked by a chemical ‘resist’ are etched away below the surface of the material using a computer-controlled etching line. It is a permanent marking solution able to produce consistent, complex designs that can then withstand adverse conditions.

An accurate, repeatable process, stainless steel chemical etching is suitable for components that require a durable, precise finish. The process does not place mechanical stress on the material. It is commonly used for nameplates, serial number plates, warning labels, instruction plates and high quality logo badges.

Since the components are able to remain legible in the harshest, most extreme of environments, it is suitable for the oil and gas, marine, military and environmental industries. Etched stainless steel solutions can even be used in the catering sector, on food processing lines where the equipment can be jet washed with caustic soda.

Our Leading Processes For A Durable, Long-Lasting Finish

In order to achieve the etched finish, a chemical resist is screen printed onto the surface of the material. This is then immersed into an acid solution, etching away the detail not masked by the resist. This process is carried out on a fully-automated etching line under computer control, ensuring consistent quality and the finest detail every time.

The sheets are then washed and, if required, the etched detail can then be infilled with a stoving enamel paint to give an extremely hard-wearing surface and a future-proof marking solution.

The resist is then cleaned from the stainless steel sheet, taking any over-spray with it to leave the detail etched away from the surface of the material. The labels are then cut from the sheets and supplied as individual parts, ready for assembly to the product.

Depending on the intended application, our stainless steel chemical etching processes can be carried out on either 304 or 316 stainless steel grades. 316 stainless steel contains a small amount of molybdenum, providing additional corrosion resistance. Our team will be able to advise on the best solution for your needs.

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We can also be reached through email at webenquiry@gsmgraphicarts.com or by phoning 01845 522 184. Feel free to also request our brochure and sample pack.

FAQ: How are etched metal labels made?

Etched metal labels are created through a precision-driven process that begins with the selection of durable materials like stainless steel. Once the material is chosen, chemicals are used to engrave intricate designs, text or logos into the surface, resulting in a permanent finish. The recessed areas can be finished with paint to provide contrast or left untreated for a refined, minimalist effect. This process ensures longevity and durability, making them ideal for challenging environments like machinery nameplates or industrial branding where exposure to extreme conditions is common.