The measure aims to replace laser cutting and etching of mechanical parts with the photochemical machining (photo etching) process which consists of \u201cprinting\u201d the component design onto a photoresist laminated onto a metal sheet. The areas of photoresist that have not been printed are removed, exposing the metal, which is then chemically removed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chemical etching, also known as photochemical machining, photochemical milling or photo etching, can be used to create complex and high-precision components with extremely tight tolerances from almost any metal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This measure can lead to a very significant reduction in electricity consumption. The installation of this technological innovation requires a partial production shutdown for its implementation and would entail a medium- to long-term return on investment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Selecting this technology depends on many factors, which are primarily the thickness and complexity of the parts, as well as the number of parts to be produced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For the machine, financial savings will mainly come from reduced electricity consumption, which can be decreased by up to 80%. Photochemical machining requires metal parts to be washed with water maintained at a temperature of 20 \u00b0C, a printer (inkjet), UV lighting and a pump to spray the etchant dissolving the metal, all of which consume little energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Apart from energy savings and increased cutting precision, photochemical machining reduces material stress. Since the etching and cutting process does not involve the application of heat or physical impact, thermal stress and cutting problems are completely eliminated by photochemical etching. Likewise, there is no need for deburring, given the absence of burrs on the edges of the parts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Please note: any application for government or non-government subsidies must comply with the \u201cincentive effect\u201d, subject to compliance with the subsidy conditions.<\/strong> SME Packages – Sustainability<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Aid for environmental protection<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n The law of 8 December 2025 on the renewal of the aid scheme for environmental and climate protection provides for the granting of investment aid to SMEs and large companies established in Luxembourg, with a business licence, and carrying out projects that contribute to environmental or climate protection. The following maximum rates apply:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To ensure that the incentive effect of the aid is respected, no binding commitments may be made (acceptance of a quote; advance)<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
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This aid supports investments aimed at improving energy efficiency outside buildings. It is intended for initiatives that either reduce energy consumption by at least 20% or achieve energy savings of at least 250 MWh per year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n