Etching with Graphite Block?

RyanW

RyanW

Moderator
Joined
Jul 17, 2009
Messages
3,327
I have a small issue that I need to rectify...

I have a Personalizer Etching machine, one of the stencils I am using is slightly wider than the contact pad (Graphite Block I cover with Felt) and I am getting "Blow Out" where the pad doesn't put downward pressure on the stencil. I am looking at making a wider one using a new graphite block.

My questions:
1. Are some graphite blocks better than others to use?
2. What is the best way to connect the new block to the Pos (+) wire?
3. Any easier options out there other than using Graphite?

Thanks in advance
Ryan
 
I just use a piece of flat brass stock glued to a piece of wood. Works good and I assume you can make it as big as you would like.
 
If q-tips aren't enough, I have a piece of aluminum that I use. All you need is something to spread out the electricity. I really prefer paper core q-tips, though.
 
Mine is a piece of stainless with a bit of plastic wrap, with the wire connected . It uses the pad of course. I purchased it made that way. Frank
 
Ryan-

I'm not sure what you mean about blowout?

My Marking Methods unit came with a plastic and graphite hand piece that broke. I made one that looks very similar to the original one, but with hardwood and brass. It works just as well as the original.

I took the lead connection that was threaded into the graphite, and used it in the replacement. It's ugly, but it works and was cheap! :)

DSCN7164.JPG DSCN7165.jpg
 
Thanks everyone for the help! Nick I think I can make up something similar to yours... For some reason Electricity is one of my downfalls.
 
If you can make the knives you do, this will be a cake-walk! :)

Great video Brian! That's a very efficient set-up you've got. I've never seen or heard of the Windex under the stencil trick, but it makes sense the more I think about it. :thumbup:
 
FWIW, you graphite block is Negative, not Positive, though most of the schematics online are bass ackwards, and have the colors mixed up.

Make sure of that, it's important!

I really think LARGE dead space on the stencil, windex, and using a small pad and "Swiping" have a lot to do with my success.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top