Etching logos questions

Drew.Haynes · May 11, 2016

Hey guys,

I've seen that both AC and DC are necessary for etching makers marks. I have a DC power supply I've used for titanium anodizing. It goes to 30v. I can check the amperage range tomorrow if it's critical.

I was wondering the cheapest and simplest way to EFFECTIVELY build just an AC component.

Can you guys give me any advice?

Thanks,

DH

BM(406) · May 12, 2016

I bought a 6/12 v transformer on the bay for maybe $15 shipped a couple years ago and have been using it ever since.

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Drew.Haynes · May 12, 2016

So, no adjustability needed, you are just hooking gator clips straight to the transformer leads?

Shipshores · May 12, 2016

I have ac/dc but never use a.c.. the black doesn't stay. If you do a deep etch with DC then neutralize you can put some thin ca glue on the logo. You will have to go back and sand the excess off though.

Drew.Haynes · May 12, 2016

"CA glue"? So, does anyone like the look of just a DC etch and then left bare?

Edit: sorry, cyanoacrylate!

rustyrazor · May 12, 2016

it's a great look if you got a nice crisp deep etch... one mans opinion at least

Shipshores · May 12, 2016

Depends on the finish. I prefer the dark etch but haven't found a reliable way to make it durable other than locking it in with ca. My DC etch leaves a dark marking but rubs off. Some of my polished blades I prefer not to have a black mark.

Drew.Haynes · May 12, 2016

Good to know! Is it worth buying a proprietary etchant solution, or do you guys go DIY?

Shipshores · May 12, 2016

etching solutions make a pretty big difference so i would buy a few and experiment with the different steels you use. Learning to do a good logo takes alot of experimenting and practice, at least for me. The advice you get here will definitely speed up the learning curve but it is one of those things were you have alot of variables as far as equipment, solutions steel type and finish on the blade.

LARRYZ10 · May 12, 2016

Try # 94 etchant solution from IMG in New York. It made my etches 100% better. My opinion only. Larry PS I use both DC and AC to etch and mark. LL

Jesenius · May 13, 2016

Drew.Haynes said:
"...So, does anyone like the look of just a DC etch and then left bare?...

Take a look at this or this. It's done with DC 12V / 0,8A. First time cca 5-10sec. with + pole on blade, second time cca 5-10 sec. with + pole on etch pad. Used salt water.

Jeff Zimba · May 14, 2016

I built mine using a battery booster/charger and run it on 2Amps. Negative to the wand and positive to the blade. For solution I just dilute water with table salt until it won't dissolve anymore. The wand is made from a piece of brass that I wrap with fresh felt and secure with rubber bands and discard after each project. It costs pennies not counting the stencils which also last a long time if not burned. Just be gentle with it. It does an amazing job and if you look at my makers mark the detail is crazy good. The lines are sharp and bold. I hope this is helpful.