I may have missed a previous posting about this subject, but I really need help with some of the photo etch sets I have (the silver looking photo etch). The thin photo etch sets I have gotten to grips with. the same can’t be said with the thicker sets…first off what is the best way to cut them from the sheet (without causing a major injury). , and secondly glueing— I take it superglue or equivalent is best??? Any help, ideas or experiences most welcome.
Many thanks
The techniques I use are pretty standard, I believe. No matter what material is used for the etch (copper, brass, steel), I begin by annealing the metal with a torch on low flame. I heat the metal until it glows red very faintly and then leave it to air cool. It eases the resistance of the metal, making it easier to shape and bend, as well as making it slightly easier in some cases to seperate from the fret. I seperate the pieces with a set of Xuron clippers which are ideal for PE, although I have also used scalpels and fine scissors on softer metals in the past. I clamp the parts in a jeweler’s hand vice to deburr the piece with a file (prevents parts from escaping into the void of going out of shape while being dressed) and a little emery paper to polish up the edges. A little CA glue is all that I use to attach the parts to plastic, but I normally solder metal to metal on some assemblies for added strength. Like any other modelling material, the trick is to take your time and experiment until you find the techniques and equipment which make you comfortable and give you the results you would like to see.
I usually cut with an X-acto blade. I keep a handle with a blade that has a 45 degree front, rather than a #11 in it, and save that setup just for cutting PE. I find no difference gluing between heavier stuff and the normal PE. I use either CA or thinned white glue depending on the particular use. I do have a set of those Xuron sheers, but use them sparingly, as I am not sure how many pieces of PE (especially the SS type) before they get too dull. I use a little block of high density particle board to cut against.
The only time I anneal is for wrapping into a tube, like WW1 machine guns or some pieces on warships. I find sharp right angle bends bend okay without annealing.