A Quick Question (two really)

[KenS]

What is the method used to mark metal in black letters and digits that is not done with a punch and what's needed to do it?

I mean like the size markings on a bit or a reamer.

Is this within the reach of a home user?

[bdarin]

I think the markings on reamers and the like are done with some laser process. Not really within our reach.

[BrianH]

I'm sure there's lots of names and methods out there, but we called it Video Jet; that was marking serial numbers on computer disk drive motors. A little more complex (and probably expensive) for the home user.

That's the only help I can give....

b

ps. Check the back ads of MSS and Modern Applications News...they have a lot of vendors for that sort of stuff....

[Thrud]

There is a tool etching system that works quite well - uses a stencil to mark the piece with an electro-chemical reaction. It will mark any metal and is relatively cheap. I cannot remember the suppliers name but it is US based (they will not ship to Canada).

Try the Thomas Register to find nearly anything. www.thomasregister.com (http://www.thomasregister.com)

[Randy]

I just checked the MSC catalog and may have found just what you need! Probably what Thrud refered to. It's called Etch-O-Matic. (You could have guessed that.) Check out www.etch-o-matic.com. (http://www.etch-o-matic.com.) You can buy a starter kit direct for $70, my latest MSC catalog lists it at $60, but that could be out of date. I may consider one myself. Thanks for joggin my noggin.

[This message has been edited by Randy (edited 09-29-2001).]

[Tdon]

Kens:
I have found a very cost effective means of marking most tools is to use "cold Gun Blueing". It is available at most gun shops and there are numerous brands. I have always done my marking freehand. I don't know of any effective means of making a stencil.
It won't work on stainless or copper alloys but will work on about anything that will rust.

Polish the area where you want the label with fine emery cloth, clean it with a good solvent like MEK or acetone to get all oil off. Then use something like a wood toothpick as a stylis, dip it in the cold blueing and simply print or write what you want to appear in the polished area. Follow directions on the blueing for cleaning and preserving.

Hope this gives you an idea. It has worked for me.

[bdarin]

Hey, thanks for the info. Just ordered me an "etch-o-matic".