Level 3 Chemical Etch Course (Macro-Etching)

This advanced course to cover chemical macro-etching of a range of widely used engineering metals to level 3 using the model of level 3 training for the five main methods of NDT as described in BS EN ISO 4179. The course covers the general metallurgy and chemistry of macro-etching in considerable detail so that students obtain a wide knowledge of different metals and alloys which prepares them for the responsibility of ensuring that the optimum process or processes are applied. The term “Chemical Etching” is used in preference to the commonly used “Acid Etching” since some alloys may be etched in either acid or alkaline solutions. Examinations are available which comply with the structure used for BS EN ISO 4179 when applied to the five main methods of NDT.

The course includes but is not limited to:-

Atomic structure and Bonding

Crystal structures

Equilibrium diagrams

Electrochemistry, Electrolysis

Heat Treatment and Properties of
Carbon and Alloy Steels
Stainless steels
Non-ferrous Metals
Nickel alloys
Superalloys
Aluminium alloys
Titanium alloys

Uses of Chemical Etching
Macro and Micro-etching

Etching procedures

Etching chemicals, Solutions, Process Control

Health and Safety for Handling Chemicals

Lunches, refreshments, and a complete set of course notes will be provided during the course.