Model Gallery

This is a device for agitating ferric chloride etchant when making printed circuit boards (PCBs).  The etchant dissolves the exposed areas of copper on the board, leaving the printed circuit pattern.

The machine moves the etchant over the PCB rather than leaving it static, making the etching process quicker.  In a commerical etching tank, this would be done by blowing air through the etchant instead.

As well as PCB etching, the machine could also be used in the photographic developing process or for etching of other materials.

The design is my own and it simply tilts the etching tray on a pivot in the centre at an appropriate speed.