FIELD: processing of rolled metal strips for providing predetermined characteristics. SUBSTANCE: method involves directing rolled metal strip through etching unit and etching metal strip with etching solution; measuring parameters of resultant surface and, depending on obtained data, automatically changing at least one etching parameter for improving etching quality. Apparatus has measuring instrument for detecting defects on metal strip surface and, consequently, insufficiently etched sites on metal surface. EFFECT: improved quality of metal strip surface and reduced process costs. 1 dwg, 1 tbl
