Hello Martin,
Please search this site for several detailed tips.
Just a few comments:
Concentration is not so critical but make sure you don't overdo things! Evenly wipe the solution over the blade (repeatedly - the reaction is usually pretty fast though). Start with a weak solution and increase the concentration if needed.
FeCl3 is a strong, agressive etchant: apply as short as possible, neutralize very carefully, and wash off generously. Make sure the etching solution touches the blade only and protect all fittings!
Ferric chloride will dull a steel surface quickly. After a first exploratory etch, one stragegy is to repolish by hand and follow up with a very quick final etch.
Any traces left on the blade or other parts will keep being corrosive forever - be very careful with applying the stuff and, especially, removing the etchant completely.
Regards,
Kai
Last edited by kai; 17th October 2014 at 06:15 PM.
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