Precision Micro, a leading global chemical etching supplier, has recently unveiled a new etching and stripping machine at its Fort Dunlop site in Birmingham, UK, marking the completion of its second state-of-the-art etch room. This investment, totaling £1.8 million and reported last year, positions Precision Micro as a key player in meeting the growing demand for advanced energy technologies worldwide, particularly in sectors like hydrogen production and storage, carbon capture, and electric vehicles.
Karl Hollis, Director of Engineering at Precision Micro, emphasized the critical role of complex etched components in facilitating the transition towards carbon neutrality and net zero objectives across various countries and industries. These components, including printed circuit heat exchangers, battery interconnects, and fuel cell bipolar plates, are essential for green energy production and storage solutions.
The expansion of Precision Micro’s capabilities addresses the need for larger and thicker metal sheets required to manufacture these components at scale. Engaging with customers in the green energy sector revealed a significant market gap, prompting the company to invest in advanced equipment capable of handling larger sheet sizes efficiently.
The new etch room facility features six state-of-the-art etching and stripping machines, accompanied by an automatic exposure unit that enables the etching of metal sheets up to 1500mm x 600mm x 2.5mm in size. This expansion not only increases production throughput and cost-effectiveness but also enhances safety by minimizing human interaction and manual handling.
In alignment with environmental sustainability goals, Precision Micro has also implemented improvements to its chemical regeneration processes. Automated systems have been introduced to enhance chemical efficiency and waste management, with the company already recycling or regenerating 98% of its waste sitewide.
Hollis highlighted the company’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, emphasizing Precision Micro’s role in supporting emerging sectors to achieve net-zero emissions targets. The enhanced capabilities offered by the new facility are expected to play a vital role in advancing technologies necessary for a sustainable future.
The completion of the new etch room reaffirms Precision Micro’s position as an innovative and environmentally responsible supplier, poised to meet the evolving demands of global industries driving towards a cleaner and more energy-efficient world.