Precision RF Shields and Microwave Components

Precision Photochemically Etched RF Shields

for High-Performance Electronics

As electronic devices become smaller, faster, and more powerful, controlling electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI) is becoming increasingly important. RF shields and covers help isolate sensitive electronic components, reducing interference between circuits while improving overall system reliability.

Etchit manufactures custom RF shields and EMI covers using photochemical machining (PCM), a precision manufacturing process that produces complex metal components without burrs, heat distortion, or mechanical stress. Unlike traditional stamping, chemical etching enables the manufacture of intricate vent patterns, small openings, grounding features, and complex geometries without the expense of hard tooling.

Whether you require a handful of engineering prototypes or high-volume production, Etchit provides economical, repeatable manufacturing solutions for your electronic application.

Types of RF Products We Manufacture

1. One-Piece Surface-Mount Shields

Design: A fully integrated, single-component metal enclosure.
How it Works: We integrate deep, etched score lines into the flat metal pattern. This allows the shield walls to be quickly and cleanly folded by hand or automated machinery during assembly. It is the most economical solution for circuits that require permanent, uninterrupted protection.

2. Two-Piece Shields (Removable Fence & Cover)

Design: A rigid perimeter wall (the “fence”) combined with a independent, detachable top cover.
How it Works: The fence is permanently soldered directly onto the PCB during initial surface-mount assembly. The top cover then securely snaps into place using integrated dimples or spring-finger retention walls. This allows engineering teams to easily pop the cover off for component testing, tuning, or field rework without ever having to desolder the frame from the board.

3. RF & Microwave Assembly Components

Design: A custom designed and ultra-thin, precision-etched metal component.
How it Works: These components are used in RF and microwave assemblies, including upconverter and downconverter systems. Depending on the customer’s design, these parts may function as conductive interface plates, grounding components, shielding contacts, RF gaskets, or other specialized components within the assembly.

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The photochemical etching process allows our team to manufacture your RF shield, cover, or component to exact specifications. Common features we can incorporate include:

Ventilation Patterns
Precision Slots
Grounding Fingers
Locking Tabs
Folded Corners
Retention Features
Identification Markings
Part Numbers
Company Logos
Date Codes
Barcodes

Custom Material & Technical Specifications For RF Shields & Covers

We work with a wide range of raw metals, thicknesses, and specialized post-finishes to meet your exact mechanical and environmental requirements. We have extensive experience working with various base metals including:

Nickel Silver (Alloy 770): A common choice for high-volume PCB shields. It inherently resists oxidation and aging, meaning it can be soldered directly to your board without requiring a costly post-plating process.
Brass: An excellent, cost-effective copper-zinc alloy that balances good electrical conductivity with superior structural stiffness. It responds beautifully to chemical etching and solders easily.
Copper: Typically used for high-frequency applications requiring maximum attenuation. Its raw electrical conductivity is excellent, though it typically requires a plating finish to prevent tarnishing.
Beryllium Copper (BeCu): Chosen specifically when mechanical memory and spring properties are vital. BeCu is heavily utilized for the clip-on lids and flexible contact fingers of two-piece shields because it retains its tight grip over thousands of opening cycles.
Stainless Steel: Used primarily for ruggedized industrial, automotive, or marine settings. It provides immense physical strength and environmental protection, though it requires plating to be solderable.

Our chemical milling process regularly works with ultra-precise metal gauges ranging from 0.005” up to 0.025”, allowing you to optimize the balance between weight savings and structural rigidity.

At Etchit, we also have the capability to offer high-quality secondary services to extend the usability and lifespan of your part. We offer secondary services including:

Tin Plating: The most common economical finish used to promote seamless, high-strength solderability during automated reflow oven processes.
Specialty Plating (Gold, Silver, Nickel): Available for specialized military, aerospace, or low-resistance communications projects requiring strict environmental compliance.

Materials such as thin copper and beryllium copper can be supplied with finishes including gold, silver, nickel, or tin plating when low contact resistance, corrosion resistance, solderability, or reliable electrical continuity is required.

Why Choose Etchit?

Since 1964, Etchit has manufactured precision photochemically etched RF shields and covers for the electronics, aerospace, medical, military, telecommunications, and industrial markets. Etchit is proudly ISO 9001:2015 certified and ITAR registered, ensuring your custom component meets strict quality and industry standards every time. Ready to manufacture your RF shield, cover, or component? Get a personalized quote now!