- Consider a custom mask service to produce your photomask stencils; this service saves you labor time for a minimal cost.
- Typically, a border of 1/4 or 1/2 an inch is placed around artwork; if you have a 1-inch border, you can avoid the need to tape. We recommend an alignment or specific border that best fits your item or shape. This eliminates critical time in mask placement.
- Invest in production equipment, especially an automatic washout system.
- Additional production tools to consider are a film dryer and larger exposure system. A larger exposure system allows you to expose multiple prints at one time or even long sheets.
- Create a production setup/flow. It is important to have all supplies on hand. Use the dual door feature on your sandcarving system – this allows for an easy load of ready-to-blast items and unload of etched items. Placing the etched products in a sink of water to allow the mask to lift off the substrate makes cleanup easy and fast.
- Have a reliable self-contained sandcarving system. Use a system that recycles abrasive. Prior to starting, order replacement parts for your system and go through any required maintenance.
-Liz Haas, Rayzist
