Photo engravers use photographic processes to etch metal objects to create dies, plates, and other materials. They learn on the job or attend technical school. The process involves exposing a sensitized metal plate and immersing it in an acid bath. Job prospects are variable and it helps to be flexible with job types and materials. The work environment must be clean and well organized with adequate environmental health and safety controls. Training and job opportunities vary around the world, and it may be helpful to assess demand and develop useful skills before pursuing a career in this field.
A photo engraver uses photographic processes to etch metal objects to create dies, plates, and other materials. People in this profession often learn their craft on the job, under the supervision of an experienced photographer who can provide advice and instruction. It is also possible to attend a technical school to learn the basics before starting work. Job prospects in this field are variable and it helps to be flexible with job types and materials.
The photoengraving process starts with the customer’s artwork. The fotengraver uses this to expose a sensitized metal plate and then immerses it in an acid bath. Variable exposure allows the acid to eat deeper into some areas of the dish than others. When it is sufficiently treated, the fotengraver can remove it from the bath, clean it, correct any defects and polish it to prepare it for the client.
Circuit boards and other components can be manufactured using this technique, and it is available for creating dies, stamps, and similar products. Letterpress printers can rely on the services of a photoengraver. Ornamental pieces such as commemorative plaques and decorative metal details can also be produced using this method. The photoengraver’s skill can determine the demand for his work, because people who can produce very fine, detailed, and accurate pieces tend to be more desirable to customers.
Photochemical milling is a complex and delicate process. The photo recorder needs high quality materials and a keen eye for detail, because precision can be very important when working with components like circuit boards. The work environment must be clean and well organized. The chemicals used can be very dangerous; therefore, adequate environmental health and safety controls must also be in place to protect everyone in the work area. These safety measures include drums for disposal of spent chemicals and a contract with a company that can handle hazardous waste.
Training and job opportunities for photoengravers vary around the world. This process has been superseded by other techniques in some regions and it can be difficult for a photoengraver to find work in these areas. Cultivating special skills in an area like circuit board production can be very helpful, but if the skill becomes obsolete, the fotengraver will need to consider expanding their practice or changing careers. Before pursuing a career in this field, it may be helpful for a person to look at job prospects in this field to assess demand for photoengravers and determine which skills would be most useful to develop.
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