How do I size a hand marker correctly?

Larger than the image, smaller than the stencil. That sizing lets one application of pressure do the job cleanly.

When would I need a rocker marker instead of a standard hand marker?

When your stencil layout is large enough that a flat, static application traps gas and water vapor under the stencil. The rocking motion lets those escape as you mark, which keeps the contrast even across the whole layout, most common in grid marking.

Data matrix code and serial number M123456 laser-etched onto a metallic surface

Electrochemical Etching

Electrochemical Etching Markers

The marker is where pressure meets current: it holds the pad against the stencil and delivers the electrolyte-fed current that produces the mark. We build our etching markers in-house, in a range of standard sizes, and machine custom angles or contours for hard-to-reach marking locations.

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How to Choose
Etching Markers

Start with the general rule: your marker should be larger than the image you're marking but smaller than the stencil itself. This way a single, even application of pressure produces a sharp mark.

Standard Hand Markers

cover most hand marking requirements.

Rocker Markers

do better for larger stencil layouts, especially grid marking. The rocking motion lets the gas and water-vapor byproducts of the etch escape as you go, which keeps contrast uniform across a bigger area.

SC Hand Markers

are our legacy option if you're supporting older equipment or simply prefer the older screen-style approach.

Inspection Markers and Caps

are ideal for aerospace and medical inspection work. These markers are built small and simple, so an operator can change parts quickly while still producing consistent, legible symbols even in tight spaces.

A collection of various mechanical pins, plungers, and red and green caps of different shapes and sizes

Inspection Markers and Caps

A standard line of small marking heads built for applying inspection symbols in aerospace parts marking — simple construction and a formed stencil cap make changeover quick while keeping marks uniform, even at very small sizes.

Various sizes and shapes of T-shaped foam applicators and handles

Hand Markers

Monode’s core hand marker line — available in a wide range of standard sizes, or machined at custom angles and contours to reach difficult marking locations. Ideally sized larger than the image being marked but smaller than the stencil, for a clean single-pressure mark.

Various sized pieces of grey and blue fabric laid out flat on a surface

Lectroetch Markers and Components

Cartridge hand pads, open hand pads, deep etch pads, saddle markers, and rocker markers — sized and coded for direct ordering by part number.

Lectroetch Grid Marking

Grid marking stencils in sizes up to 10″ x 20″, factory-processed with square or circular grid patterns — applied to sheet metal before forming and reproduced using a heavy-duty power unit with a rocker pad or roller marker.

▪ Frequently Asked Questions

Etching Markers FAQs

Related Products and Resources

Several green and red mats with various lettered columns, tactile dots, and hazard symbols

Stencils

Stencils, pads, and other electrochemical etching supplies.

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Markers

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Monode marking products electrolyte pad with clear acrylic base and adjustment knobs

Fixtures

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Talk to an engineer about sizing your marker correctly, larger than the image, smaller than the stencil, or add one to your quote.

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Marking Systems

MARKING SYSTEMS

Consumables & supplies

Electrochemical Etching Markers