On Wed, 24 Dec 2003 07:39:02 -0800 (PST), mpdickens <
md30022@...>
wrote:
> Hello Stefan,
> I was able to achieve an air tight seal on my spray etcher using a
> rubber strip that I purchased at an automobile parts store. The strip
> that
> I used was the rubber weather proofing seal for a sun roof. It was
> cheap and readily available. Alternatives to this include the rubber
> seal for a refigerator or freezer or the weather proofing seal for an
> automobile door. I used lexan for the top along with plastic hinges and
> plastic bolts. To attach the rubber seal, I used a marine adhesive.
> Be advised that spray etchers atomize the etchant, so a good seal
> is imperative.
> Best regards
>
> Marvin Dickens
> Alpharetta, Georgia USA
>
>
Thanks, very good idea.
I abandoned the idea of a spray etcher because of that, and because i don't
really need one.
i can wait a few minutes for the occassional pcb (and search together the
components in the meanwhile).
But i still want a good seal. i don't have a spare room for this.
I don't want everything rusty.
the garage is usually overcrowded, and i don't want to go outside
(especially now at these temperatures).
If i can seal the unit up to near air-tight (not pressure tight of course)
i can keep it with my tools
and material. (the vapors would corrode not only iron, electronic parts,
wires, all oxidizes terribly. - don't ask)
I like the idea of the horizontal etch.
If i choose a container with a clear lid (most are milky white) i can even
see the progress without
opening. And from the top, which allows safe placing in a bigger "emergency
container".
(like a big plastic box). I can then put another cover on the plastic box
and have all safely stored away.
A vertical tank needs much more room (a higher box) and needs a good stand
to prevent it toppling over.
In the same plastic box another container, with water in it should have
space enough.
The procedure would be to lift the lid, put the pcb in while keeping the
lid over the etchant tray (drops).
then put it in, etch, when ready lift again and rinse in the water
container.
If there are any spilled drops they would be within the safety box, no
mess.
i like the idea.
The thing i haven't planned yet is the pcb holder.
I will find some solution for sure..
it shouldn't obscure the view from the top (through the lid)
and it should be capable of holding very tiny pcbs.
I will keep you informed what i come up with.
I wouldn't fear the welding of a tank myself but if i can use a tupperware
container (with zero work involved and maybe cheaper (sheet plastic costs))
i will use that.
Stefan