Laser
Chemical etching and laser cutting are two methods to manufacture precision metal parts but depending on your application, one method may be better suited than another-or, both methods may be best. For example, Fotofab may choose to laser cut certain features (holes, slots, etc) smaller than 0.004" (.102mm). Below is a comparison chart that shows how laser cutting and chemical etching metal parts compare:
| Laser | Chemical Etching | |
| Minimum feature size | 0.001"(.0254mm) | 0.004" (.102mm) |
| Tolerances | Down to +/- 0.0002" (.005mm) | Down to +/- 0.001" (.0254mm) |
| Delivery | Standard delivery: 2 weeks | Same-day up to 2-3 weeks |
| Minimum lot | Usually $300 plus set-up/programming | $300 plus $250 for phototool |
| Additional fees | Set-up fees and programming(fees vary) | Phototool(usually $250-$275 for single part tool) |
| Materials | Metals and non-metals | Metals |
| Ideal material thicknesses | From 0.0005" (.0127mm) to 0.1250" (3.18mm) | From 0.0005" (.0127mm) to 0.090" (2.29mm) |
| Intricate features | Can add to cost | No price increase for intricate designs |
To discuss your application, please send an email to or call us at (773) 463-6211.
