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Everything you need to get the most out of your electrochemical marking system. Find technical guides, electrolyte compatibility charts, and support materials.
Electrochemical Marking Handbook
A comprehensive guide to understanding and using electrochemical marking technology
What is Electrochemical Marking?
Electrochemical marking (also called electromarking or electrolytic etching) is a technique used to mark conductive metal surfaces. It produces a sharp, clean impression without damaging or distorting the metal.
The process uses a low-voltage electrical current and a chemical electrolyte to transfer an image from a stencil onto a metal surface. Unlike mechanical engraving or stamping, electrochemical marking doesn't stress the metal or alter its properties.
Key Advantages:
- • No mechanical stress or distortion
- • Works on hardened, thin, or assembled parts
- • Permanent, corrosion-resistant marks
- • Fast and economical
- • Portable equipment for on-site marking
How the Process Works
Create or Select Stencil
Design your mark and create a stencil with the image or text you want to transfer
Apply Electrolyte
Saturate a marking pad with the appropriate electrolyte solution for your metal
Position Stencil
Place the stencil on the clean metal surface where you want the mark
Apply Current
Connect to marking unit, apply marker to stencil, and activate current (typically 3-10 seconds)
Neutralize & Clean
Remove stencil, neutralize with neutralyte, and clean the marked surface
Types of Marks
AC Dark Marks (Black Marks)
AC (Alternating Current) creates a dark or black mark on the metal surface. The mark is created by a thin oxide layer deposited on the surface.
- • Best for: High contrast marking, serial numbers, logos
- • Depth: Very shallow (typically 0.0001" or less)
- • Speed: Fast (3-5 seconds typical)
- • Applications: Part identification, branding, traceability
DC Etch Marks (White/Frosted)
DC (Direct Current) removes metal to create a deeper white or frosted mark. The mark is actually etched into the metal surface.
- • Best for: Deep etching, permanent ID, aerospace applications
- • Depth: Deep (0.001" to 0.005" typical)
- • Speed: Slower (5-15 seconds typical)
- • Applications: Government contracts, critical parts, long-term traceability
Common Applications
Industrial
- • Serial numbers
- • Part numbers
- • Date codes
- • Traceability marking
- • QC stamps
- • Company logos
Specialty Markets
- • Knife making
- • Firearms marking
- • Musical instruments
- • Jewelry marking
- • Tool identification
- • Sports equipment
Government & Aerospace
- • MIL-STD compliance
- • Aircraft parts
- • Defense equipment
- • Nuclear components
- • Critical assemblies
- • Aerospace tooling
Metals That Can Be Marked
Electrochemical marking works on virtually all conductive metals. Different electrolytes are used for different metals.
Ferrous Metals
Carbon Steel
Stainless Steel
Tool Steel
Cast Iron
Non-Ferrous
Aluminum
Copper
Brass
Bronze
Specialty Metals
Titanium
Nickel Alloys
Inconel
Monel
Precious Metals
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Palladium
Safety Precautions
- • Always work in well-ventilated areas
- • Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, eye protection)
- • Keep electrolytes away from skin and eyes
- • Never touch electrical connections while unit is on
- • Store electrolytes in original containers
- • Follow all SDS guidelines for chemical handling
Best Practices
- • Clean surface thoroughly before marking
- • Use correct electrolyte for the metal type
- • Test mark on sample first for new applications
- • Always neutralize immediately after marking
- • Keep stencils clean and dry when not in use
- • Maintain consistent marking pressure and time
Electrolyte Compatibility Guide
| Electrolyte | Compatible Metals | Mark Type | Description | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Marking Electrolyte |
ELEC-BLACK
|
Steel
Stainless Steel
Titanium
|
Dark
|
Creates deep black surface marks. Best for AC marking applications. |
| Etch Electrolyte |
ELEC-ETCH
|
Steel
Stainless Steel
Aluminum
Brass
|
Frosted
|
Deep etching solution for DC marking. Produces a permanent frosted finish. |
| Aluminum Black |
ELEC-ALU
|
Aluminum
Aluminum Alloys
|
Dark
|
Specialized black marking solution for aluminum and its alloys. |
| Pro Cleaner |
CLEAN-PRO
|
All Metals
|
Cleaner
|
Professional cleaning solution. Removes oils, residue, and prepares surface for marking. |
Documentation & Guides
User Handbooks
Complete user manuals for all marking systems
- • EM-600 Pro User Manual
- • HM-100 Quick Start Guide
- • BM-200 Operation Manual
- • Stencil Design Guidelines
Technical Specifications
Detailed specs and compatibility charts
- • Metal Compatibility Chart
- • Voltage & Power Requirements
- • Marking Depth Guidelines
- • Electrolyte Safety Data Sheets
Support & FAQ
Common questions and troubleshooting
- • Troubleshooting Guide
- • Frequently Asked Questions
- • Maintenance Procedures
- • Contact Technical Support
Application Guides
By Industry
- Knife Making
- Manufacturing
- Aerospace
- Automotive
By Application
- Serial Number Marking
- Logo & Branding
- Compliance Marking
- Tool Identification
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