Article written and distributed by Photofab Ltd
As world leaders in the development of photochemical technology to produce intricately shaped components, Photofab, based in St Neots, Cambridgeshire, has established itself as a trusted partner to the aerospace industry.
Chemical etching offers unique advantages for aerospace applications, allowing for the production of burr-free and stress-free components; this is crucial for the demanding environments of aircraft and spacecraft. The technique enables the manufacture of strong, lightweight parts with exceptional temperature and corrosion resistance – key attributes for aerospace materials.
Photofab Marketing Manager, Nikki Crook said: “In aerospace, reliability and performance are of the utmost importance. Our chemical etching process delivers components that meet the most rigorous quality standards, ensuring each part is flawless and free from stress, burrs, or distortion.”
With over five decades of experience, Photofab’s capabilities extend to a wide range of metals, including steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper alloys, and nickel alloys. This versatility allows them to produce diverse components, from actuators to terminals, all crafted with the precision demanded by the aerospace sector.
The company’s commitment to excellence is evident in its accreditations, including ISO 9001, 14001, 45001, and SC21 certifications. These standards underscore Photofab’s dedication to quality, environmental responsibility, and industry best practices.
Photofab’s ability to handle intricate and complex geometries, even at micro scales, positions it well to meet the changing needs of the sector. From single-piece prototypes to high-volume production runs, Photofab offers the flexibility and customisation that aerospace manufacturers require.
With state-of-the-art facilities, including five multi-chamber etching machines, Photofab can deliver rapid turnaround times – as fast as 24 hours in some cases. This efficiency, combined with cost-effective tooling and manufacturing processes, makes Photofab an ideal partner for aerospace companies looking to stay competitive in a fast-paced industry.
“We understand that in aerospace, every component is critical to mission success,” Nikki Crook added. “That’s why we focus on full traceability, documented process control, and consistent quality in everything we produce.
“Customer satisfaction drives every aspect of our operations. We have made strategic investments in our team, technology, and procedures to deliver world-class service that exceeds expectations.”
As the aerospace sector continues to push the boundaries of what we all thought was possible, Photofab stands ready to support these advancements. By combining precision engineering with a commitment to innovation, Photofab is helping to shape the future of aerospace manufacturing, one meticulously crafted component at a time.
For those interested in learning more about Photofab’s work in the aerospace industry, you can visit their website www.photofab.co.uk.