Built me an etcher

T

talf904

Joined
Apr 2, 2013
Messages
10
Well, I built a selectable voltage etcher. Do I need 24v - not sure yet, as I am new to this - but it was fun making it and playing around with it so far. Thanks to all the posts about this topic, and thanks to those who share your knowledge - it definitely helps us "newbies". Now it's time to dig up some information on etching different types of steel, etching times, etching solutions, etc..

qQ1erh7l.jpg

cxgyHr2l.jpg

ud6RnaUl.jpg
 
Do you have any pictures of the guts? I'm wanting to make one, but sadly I don't know much about electronics.
 
A schematic would be fun to see also. If you have one....................

Thanks

Syn
 
Synthesis and Broomhead...here you go. I am no electrician or engineer so I am sure there are better ways to do this. Also, this diagram was done in a hurry so I hope I did not miss anything. All of the parts used are the same as the Chris Crawford model linked by 12345678910 with the addition of one extra DPDT switch (on-off-on). Any tip syou guys can pass along on the steels, time frames, etc. would be greatly appreciated.

pOo7G9El.jpg


Q2CymHll.png
 
I am building one of these etchers but I would like to use it for some electroplating as well so I would like to be able to vary the voltage. I would like to have a knob on the exterior of the case. Where can I find a voltage regulator that would do the job? TIA
 
I'm just about to start making my own etcher myself. I already have some electronic stuff I think I can use, you did a great job!
 
glassguy said:
I am building one of these etchers but I would like to use it for some electroplating as well so I would like to be able to vary the voltage. I would like to have a knob on the exterior of the case. Where can I find a voltage regulator that would do the job? TIA
Click to expand...
Just use a Variac instead of one of these transformers.
Then you can anodize with it as well.
 
It looks as if a variac is used for AC. I need to regulate DC voltage. I stopped by Radio Shack yesterday and the kid behind the counter recommended a potentiometer. The one he recommended was only $2.50 but it isn't up to the job. I can put my ohm meter on it and it does vary resistance but when I put 12 volts DC through it I get the same voltage reading all around the dial.
 
That's because the Radio Shack kid was wrong. A pot is not going to regulate your voltage.

Of course the Variac is AC, so is the transformer used in this project already! (Variac = Variable AC)

When you output through the bridge rectifier, you make DC.

So, variable DC.
 
The problem with trying to make an etcher/anodizer is that you can easily output 110VAC and hurt yourself. Likewise, if you forget and have it set to 110VDC when you try to etch, you're going to fry your stencils. The 1 amp circuit breakers don't pop because etching and anodizing require far less than 1 amp.

Secondly, you want a lot more filters in an anodizer than you need with an etcher. Ripple doesn't matter when etching, but it makes reproducing a color difficult when anodizing.
 
Oh yes, I forgot to mention.

Knifemaking is dangerous.

And this is not the best way to anodize, or plate, or mark.

But it is a viable DIY solution.

Did it for years.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top