--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Dave <theschemer@...> wrote:
>
> Is there some simple but professional plans to build an etchant
tank? I
> mean with heater and agitation, not just a jar and manual labor:)
Or is
> one available that is professional but not too pricey? I seen one
for
> $50 and I bookmarked it. http://www.web-
tronics.com/lowcosetsysw.html
> Is that worth the $$ or could I make something with aquarium parts
> (heater, pump, etc). I was also planning on using ferric chloride
as I
> have a bottle from RatShack from when I started getting interested
in
> this some years ago. I know there are other etchants and comments
are
> welcome on whats best but I think other than the staining and
inability
> to see your boards progress, ferric chloride is probably as good as
the
> others??
>
> Thanks,
> Dave
>
It has been my experience that bubblers and other agitation methods
are not worth the hassle. The generally make it difficult to contain
the etchant (leaks, spray, etc...) and require more echant be used
than is really necessary.
Floating the board on the surface of hot echant is almost as
effective as the bubbles anyway. The removed material falls away as
it etches clearing the way for fresh etchant to be applied to the
next layer.
I would suggest a simple system of a metal pan of hot water on a
stove or hot plate with a shallow plastic pan of echant in it. Pour
in a little echant, just enough, then float the board and check on
it until you can see through from the top. For double sided, do one
side at a time and tape the side on the top.