Wet Etching Tungsten

Tungsten, known for its remarkable strength and high melting point, is a versatile metal widely used in various industries.

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Tungsten Characteristics:

Tungsten, a refractory metal, possesses exceptional properties that make it ideal for various applications:

1. High Melting Point: Tungsten’s melting point of 3422°C (6192°F) makes it suitable for high-temperature applications, such as aerospace components and heating elements.
2. Superior Strength: Tungsten is renowned for its high tensile strength, enabling it to withstand extreme conditions and heavy loads.
3. Excellent Electrical Conductivity: Tungsten has one of the highest electrical conductivities among metals, making it invaluable in the electronics and electrical industries.
4. Density: With a density close to that of gold, tungsten imparts a satisfying heft to precision components.

Etching Tungsten probe

WET is a professional manufacturer of high-quality tungsten probes for batch customization. In the realm of precision engineering, where every micron matters, fine tungsten probes emerge as indispensable tools driving innovation and discovery. As manufacturers strive to meet the exacting demands of various industries, the role of fine tungsten probe batch customization becomes paramount.

Etching Hook-type 99.5% tungsten needle

These miniature precision microtool tips are helpful for particle manipulation or sample prep. They are available as individual interchangeable tips.

Tungsten alloy with durable 0.001″ radius tip

Etching 90° Microhook 99.5% tungsten

These miniature precision microtool tips are helpful for particle manipulation or sample prep. They are available as individual interchangeable tips.

Etching 99.5% tungsten Microneedle – Straight

These miniature precision microtool tips are helpful for particle manipulation or sample prep. They are available as individual interchangeable tips. 

Etching Tungsten [Etching process]:

Metal etching is a precise process used to selectively remove material from the surface of tungsten to create intricate designs and patterns. When etching tungsten, the choice of etchant is critical for optimal results:

Chemical etching of tungsten typically involves the use of a mixture of hydrofluoric acid (HF) and nitric acid (HNO3) as the etchant solution. This combination of acids is effective in etching tungsten because it can react with the metal to form soluble tungsten fluoride compounds. The specific ratio of HF to HNO3 and other process parameters may vary depending on the desired etching rate and surface finish.

It’s essential to exercise extreme caution when working with these acids, as they can be highly corrosive and pose significant safety risks. Proper safety equipment and procedures should be followed when handling and disposing of these chemicals, and the process should be conducted in a well-ventilated fume hood or under controlled conditions in a chemical etching facility.

Ferric chloride (FeCl3) is a common etchant used for a wide range of metals, but it is not effective for etching tungsten. The reason for this is related to the specific chemical properties and reactivity of tungsten.

Ferric chloride primarily works as an oxidizing agent and relies on the formation of metal chlorides to etch metals. However, tungsten is a highly refractory metal with a high melting point and exceptional resistance to oxidation and corrosion. Tungsten forms a stable oxide layer (tungsten oxide) on its surface when exposed to oxygen or oxidizing agents, and this oxide layer acts as a protective barrier, preventing further reaction with the etchant.

Hydrofluoric acid (HF), on the other hand, is effective for etching tungsten because it can dissolve the tungsten oxide layer. HF is a strong acid that can react with metal oxides, including tungsten oxide, to form soluble fluoride complexes. This reaction removes the oxide layer and exposes the underlying tungsten for further etching.

Tungsten etching equipment

Selling Price:
$12,000.00

S650 WET Etching MachineDownload

Wet Processing Equipment – Tungsten etching machine

The Tungsten etching machine is used to spray chemical solution to a copper-clad laminator, aluminum substrate, or stainless steel plate, the exposed copper, aluminum, and stainless steel are etched away, retaining the pattern or circuit covered by the corrosion-proof film, so as to achieve the purpose of making pattern or circuit.

This etching machine is an all-in-one small Tungsten etching machine that is easy to install and can be used immediately after powering on.

Photo Etching Tungsten:

Photo etching is a precise process used for intricate designs on tungsten:

1. Material Film: Photomasks made of high-quality polymer films with excellent UV resistance are recommended for precise and detailed etching.
2. Temperature Control: Maintain a stable and controlled temperature during the photoresist exposure and development process to ensure accurate pattern transfer.

Tungsten’s exceptional properties make it a valuable material for precision machining in various industries. Employing the right etchants, surface treatment methods, and electroforming techniques, alongside proper metal cleaning and photo etching, ensures optimal results without compromising tungsten’s integrity. Understanding these processes and precautions will enable manufacturers to produce high-quality tungsten products for specific applications, ranging from electronics to aerospace and beyond.

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how to etch Tungsten?

Etching Tungsten Process Guidelines

The values provided are approximate and can vary depending on specific etching conditions, including exposure time and the condition of the tungsten surface. Always conduct test etches and adjust parameters as needed to achieve your desired results. Additionally, safety precautions should be followed when handling these chemicals, especially in the case of Piranha solution.

Etching Tungsten Samples