Homebrew PCBs

On Thu, 16 Nov 2006 21:20:18 +0100, lwr20 <lwr20@...> wrote:

> Hi all,
> Since most things have been tried at some stage by various people in the
> group, I was wondering if anyone had tried speeding up PCB etching by
> making/adapting an 'ultrasonic cleaning tank'.
> This
> <http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=97187&&source=14&doy=16m11\
>>  sort of thing.  This particular one wouldn't be suitable because of
> the stainless steel tank (etchant attacks this, right?), but there must
> be a plastic one available somewhere...
> I can think of all sorts of reasons why this might not work (nasty
> etchant vapours produced, breakdown of etchant, removal of etch-resist,
> etc.) but until someone tries it we'll never know :)
> Since these machines are used for cleaning jewellery, removing
> grease/oil, rust, etc. maybe these things are useful for easy cleaning
> of PCBs prior to TT or some other masking method?
> Lance.


I have made the same suggestion a while ago, but nobody wants to try.
You can line the stainless container with a plastic baggie, even use water  
outside of that to reduce amount of required etchant etc..

If i get my hands on a cleaner i will try it.

ST