Bold and strong, or etching is a delicate matter

Perhaps this specialty is not considered rare on the scale of Kazakhstan, but at UMP it really is. Only 5 factory workers have mastered the subtleties and nuances of the interesting and unusual profession «Etcher».

Although the title of the position is not very euphonious and even intimidating, representatives of this profession perform an important mission and have a high calling. And meeting with them showed that they are business people, open, friendly, in love with their work.

Etchers are specialists who are engaged in etching – the process of cleaning and clarifying the surface of the metal by chemical and ultrasonic methods. Their main task is to issue blanks and finished products of the required geometric dimensions and high quality.

Nikolai Lebedev, Head of TP department No. 5, shop No. 10:

– The etching process is an integral part of the production of tantalum and niobium products. Without picklers at the technological process, we would not be able to produce any type of finished product. And its quality is the result of the well-coordinated and competent work of the pickling department specialists.

The name of the profession «etcher» appeared on UMP in the late 80s. Until that time, there were operators.

The team of etchers is well-established, here everyone is in his place, everyone knows his job. «Old-timers» of the site Sergey Volkov and Sergey Podkorytov became mentors for the younger etchers Ivan Gavrilov, Konstantin Akhmadiev and Vladimir Kuznetsov.

Sergey Volkov and Sergey Podkorytov:

– We perform several basic operations. We «etch» ingots, rods, wire and flat sacks from a copper sheath in nitric acid. Next, we clarify them in a solution of hydrofluoric acid and hydrogen peroxide from technological lubricants, metal inclusions and surface oxidation. We also carry out ultrasonic cleaning of the wire and washing the etched metal with running water. Our main equipment is a large etching cabinet, etching baths, ultrasonic wire cleaning units. All products prepared in appearance are sent to the quality control department and then transferred to the finished product warehouse, or for further processing to the rolling, drawing and pressing sections.

The etcher must know the principle of operation and maintenance rules of pickling and gas cleaning equipment, the physical and chemical foundations of the process of etching and cleaning metal products, the preparation, adjustment and timely replacement of etching solutions, the regulation of the etching process depending on the temperature of the solution, and much more.

Ivan Gavrilov:

– All this and other basics of the profession were taught to us by our «sensei» – senior colleagues. And, of course, the main rule in our work is safety. It is above all, because some things, without observing the rules and requirements of safe work, can be done only once. Attentiveness, responsibility, caution – this is the basis of our activity.

Sergey Volkov and Sergey Podkorytov have been in production for almost 40 years. They are also fond of fishing. At one time they were active participants in factory fishing competitions. Etching and fishing together!

The basis of the successful work of the etching team is solidarity, mutual assistance and support. And these are not big words, this is something without which it is impossible to solve important production tasks.

Nikolai Lebedev:

– The profession of an etcher is not only difficult, but also associated with harmful conditions. Most of the time they are in contact with acids and alkalis, so they have to work in space suits and a full set of PPE (aprons, gloves, helmets with shields, etc.). Etchers are brave and strong people. Not everyone can endure such tension and rhythm of work, but those who remain associate their entire working life with it.

Indeed, when etchers talk about their production activities, you understand that they are dedicated to their work, as they say, «etch» from the heart.

– What is the most important thing at work?

– Do not neglect safety, work as a team.

– Are people far from production surprised when they recognize your profession?

– Yes, it is very interesting. They ask: «What kind of profession is such an «etcher», what do you do?». We answer: «We etch» (laugh). And some of our position is even alarming.

– Are you proud of your profession?

– Yes, very much, because there are no others like it at the plant. All the TP metal is brought to us, and we clean it. You know, etching is a delicate matter!

Razia Sertaeva