Treatment FAQ

what does black oxide treatment do

by Dr. Theresa Ernser Jr. Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Also, black oxide coating is beneficial because it adds thickness to steel, even though it's microscopic, it helps maintain the sharpness of things like drills or screwdrivers. Also, it helps reduce corrosion and friction due to the oil or wax present. The wax or oil also allows for the material to be water resistant.

Full Answer

How to remove black oxide after electrolysis?

Thread: Stripping Black Oxide?

  1. As mentioned, add acid to water, not the other way around
  2. Neutralize the acid before disposing. This can be done by mixing with baking soda, although it takes a LOT. ...
  3. Don't have an open container inside -- the fumes will rust anything with exposed metal, even if it is 15 feet away. ...

More items...

How to make a black oxide finish?

Things You'll Need

  • Wire brush
  • Powdered abrasive household cleaner
  • Rubber or latex gloves
  • Cold-process black oxide kit
  • Plastic or glass container
  • Distilled water
  • Plastic kitchen tongs
  • Lint-free cloths
  • Sealer, penetrating or dry to the touch

What are the advantages of black oxide?

  • reduction of the tribological and chemical attack [5] (“passivation”)
  • reduced hydrogen diffusion into the bearing steel [6] (“passivation”)
  • corrosion protection [7]
  • stabilization of raceway microstructure [8].

Do it yourself black oxide?

The Caswell Black Oxide kit is excellent. Here is my trick: After your initial soak in the blackening agent, wearing disposable gloves, wipe your part down with a paper towel. Rub hard. Some of the black will come off. When the part is dry, send it back to the "bucket" for another soak.

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How long does the black oxide process take?

Black oxidizing. Immersion of the part in the hot alkaline bath for a period of 5 to 40 minutes. Water rinsing using a pressurized water stream.

Does black oxide prevent rust?

Red oxidation is commonly known as rust, and black oxide can keep it at bay. The process doesn't actually oxidize the metal; the cold black oxide “coating” comprises a very thin layer of copper selenium. This compound prevents rust from forming on the steel and also gives the part some resistance to mild abrasion.

Does black oxide add thickness?

Black Oxide is not a deposit, it is a Chemical Oxidation of the Steel, making the surface turn Black. It has almost no thickness, or at least any value as such. This is one of the reasons it is used in gun barrels, because it doesn't change the dimensions of the parts to be covered.

Is black oxide harmful?

While most metal finishing processes use toxic chemicals, the black oxide process is especially hazardous, and amateurs are most definitely discouraged from attempting hot blackening! One of the things that makes black oxiding so dangerous is that the black oxide bath operates at about 290 °F.

What is the benefit of black oxide coating?

Also, black oxide coating is beneficial because it adds thickness to steel, even though it's microscopic, it helps maintain the sharpness of things like drills or screwdrivers. Also, it helps reduce corrosion and friction due to the oil or wax present. The wax or oil also allows for the material to be water resistant.

Does black oxide wear off?

Does Black Oxide Wear Off? New black oxide tools are known for leaving black smudges on your hands for weeks but this is not the coating wearing off. The coating process leaves a residual powder that they don't clean off at the factory.

Does black oxide affect surface finish?

Black oxide will not affect the part dimension, hardness, temper or surface properties….. a polished surface retains its gloss and a dull surface finish will retain its matte finish. Black oxide will not chip, peel, flake or rub off.

Can you powder coat over black oxide?

In general, the answer is yes, you can powder coat it. However, caution is advised. A chromate conversion coating can be a very good corrosion inhibitor, but may not be very good for powder adhesion.

Will blackened steel rust?

It's important to remember that blackened steel never stops rusting. If you would like to prevent rust, the material should be sealed after it has been blackened.

How do you apply black oxide coating?

3:216:21How to do professional quality black oxide finishing in the home workshop.YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThree minutes now and the parts are black so it's time to transfer them into the water bath for aMoreThree minutes now and the parts are black so it's time to transfer them into the water bath for a final rinse. The blacking solution alone won't prevent the parts from going rusty.

What is the difference between black oxide and black zinc?

Black Zinc Provides mild corrosion resistance and a black finish. It is thicker than a Black Oxide finish, so on tight fitting parts be wary of this finish. If a stylish finish is required as well as corrosion protection this is a good option.

How do you remove black oxide coating?

Wash the object from which the black oxide will be removed. ... Pour a 30 percent hydrochloric acid solution into the glass container. ... Dip the object into the hydrochloric acid solution. ... Pull the object out and rinse it with plain water. ... Rinse the object and dry it immediately with a towel.

Why use black oxide?

It is used to add mild corrosion resistance, for appearance, and to minimize light reflection. To achieve maximal corrosion resistance the black oxide must be impregnated with oil or wax. One of its advantages over other coatings is its minimal buildup.

What is black oxide for copper?

Black oxide for copper, sometimes known by the trade name Ebonol C, converts the copper surface to cupric oxide. For the process to work the surface has to have at least 65% copper; for copper surfaces that have less than 90% copper it must first be pretreated with an activating treatment.

What temperature does black oxide blacken?

Like hot black oxide, mid-temperature black oxide converts the surface of the metal to magnetite (Fe 3 O 4 ). However, mid-temperature black oxide blackens at a temperature of 200–245 °F (93–118 °C), significantly less than hot black oxide. This is advantageous because it is below the solution's boiling point, meaning there are no caustic fumes produced.

What is the temperature of a blackening compound?

These tanks contain, in order, alkaline cleaner, water, caustic soda at 140.5 °C (284.9 °F) (the blackening compound), and finally the sealant, which is usually oil. The caustic soda and elevated temperature causes Fe 3 O 4 (black oxide) to form on the surface of the metal instead of Fe 2 O 3 (red oxide; rust).

Is black oxide porous?

While it is physically more dense than red oxide, the fresh black oxide is porous, so oil is then applied to the heated part, which seals it by "sinking" into it. The combination prevents corrosion of the workpiece. There are many advantages of blackening, mainly:

Is low temperature oxide a conversion coating?

Low temperature oxide, also described below, is not a conversion coating—the low-temperature process does not oxidize the iron, but deposits a copper selenium compound.

Is black oxide a conversion?

It is not an oxide conversion coating, but rather a deposited copper selenium compound. Cold black oxide offers higher productivity and is convenient for in-house blackening. This coating produces a similar color to the one the oxide conversion does, but tends to rub off easily and offers less abrasion resistance.

What is post treatment for black oxide?

An appropriate post treatment also increases the resistance to abrasion of the black oxide where break-in of mating parts is required. Oil post treatments are frequently used after black oxide coating.

What is black oxide?

The black oxide process is a chemical conversion coating. This means that the black oxide is not deposited on the surface of the substrate like nickel or zinc electroplating. Instead, the black oxide coating is produced by a chemical reaction between the iron on the surface of the ferrous metal and the oxidizing salts present in ...

Why apply supplementary post treatment after black oxide finish?

Applying a supplementary post treatment after the black oxide finish is commonly used to increase the corrosion protection properties of black oxide coatings. Alone, black oxide offers only a very mild corrosion resistance.

What is the result of oxidizing salts?

The result of this chemical reaction is the formation of black iron oxide, magnetite (Fe3O4), on the surface of the metal being coated.

Why is black oxide coating good?

Also, black oxide coating is beneficial because it adds thickness to steel, even though it’s microscopic, it helps maintain the sharpness of things like drills or screwdrivers. Also, it helps reduce corrosion and friction due to the oil or wax present. The wax or oil also allows for the material to be water resistant.

What are the different types of black oxide?

There are three types of black oxide coating: hot black oxide, mid-temperature black oxide, and cold black oxide. First, hot black oxide coating. This includes a hot bath of nitrites, nitrates, and sodium hydroxide. The ferrous material is dipped in the bath which turns its surface into magnetite. After, the material is dipped into three tanks ...

What turns ferrous material black?

The ferrous material is dipped in the bath which turns its surface into magnetite. After, the material is dipped into three tanks which contain alkaline cleaner, water, and caustic soda which is what eventually turns the material black. Finally, the material is dumped into the oil or wax which is the coating material.

Why is iron oxide used in IR sensors?

It takes products, and it coats them in iron oxide. This provides many benefits. First, it reduces light reflection. This is beneficial because for products such as IR sensors, UV sensors, passive infrared detectors, etc. excess or reflected light can completely alter the results. Also, black oxide coating is beneficial because it adds thickness ...

What is Acktar Black?

Acktar Black can be deposited on essentially all engineering materials – including polymers and ceramics – while Black Oxide is limited to a few metals – mainly ferrous and copper based materials. Unlike Black Oxide – Acktar Black can be tailored – within limits – to electrical conductivity requirements.

What is Black Oxide?

Black oxide is one conversion coating type that offers metal parts with an improved matte black appearance. A conversion coating describes a process that occurs through an electrochemical or chemical treatment of the surface in question.

The Black Oxide Finish Process

Generally, there are five simple yet important steps for black oxide coating. These include cleaning, rinsing, applying the black oxide, rinsing, and supplementary coating.

Types of Black Oxide Finish for Precision Machined Parts

Manufacturers currently use many different surface finishing processes to achieve the black oxide coating on metals. However, there are two broad categories of black oxide. They are the hot and cold blackening processes. Each of these categories comes with unique formulations for the proprietary coating to complete the surface treatment.

Materials for Black Oxide Finish

Black oxide coating protects several ferrous metals, steel, and stainless steel parts. However, manufacturers have additionally developed specialized coatings to make black oxide finishes on copper and zinc components.

Common Applications for Black Oxide Finish for Precision Machined Parts

Black oxide has a wide variety of use in different industries. The reason for this is not far-fetched. This finishing process provides the corrosion resistance and strength required on the battlefield and the essential functioning needed for surgical and medical tools. It is a versatile finish for several different materials.

Pros and Cons of Black Oxide Finish

Applying a black oxide coating on materials offers several different benefits, ensuring smoother operations of devices and components. However, this finishing process also comes with some downsides, which are important to note. Here, we will examine the various merits and demerits of black oxide in custom manufacturing.

RapidDirect: Your Preferred Partner for Precision Machining Projects

Whenever you are ready to discuss your next custom manufacturing project, RapidDirect is ready to serve you. Our clients in several different industries specify the black oxide finish for many of their precision machined parts.

What are the benefits of black oxide?

Decorative Finish: Yet another benefit of black oxide finish is that the coating looks pleasant and can be given a nice touch with the various after-finish options available. Provides anti-galling properties: Black oxidized parts will cause less friction as they tend to impart better lubrication.

What is black oxide?

Black Oxide is a coating that's created by dipping metal parts into a specially formulated solution at specific temperatures. The chemical reaction that occurs during this process creates magnetite (Fe3O4) on the surface of the parts. The solution used is generally a hot bath of sodium hydroxide, nitrates, and nitrites at 286 degrees F ...

Is black oxide good for organic coating?

Not only is this good for applications where the parts will be running together but it also adds to the improved feel. Base for organic coatings: The combination of all the characteristics imparted by the black oxide process creates a good foundation for being able to apply other organic coatings.

Can black oxide be applied to a plated metal?

If the parts have any build-ups like scale or rust, these may have to be resolved before creating the black oxide coating. Black oxide cannot be applied to parts that are plated. The plating would have to removed before the black oxide process. There's a wide variety of options for the after-finish.

Does cold oxide cause black finish to rub off?

Alternatively, the cold oxide process will tend to show variations in color and can potentially cause the black finish to rub off. Given this, it's the “hot” black oxide process that's most desirable and meets military, automotive and other specifications. For example, when applying Hot Black Oxide for stainless steel, a solution of caustic, ...

Why is black oxide used?

Although black oxide provides mild corrosion protection to the treated parts, it is primarily used because of its aesthetic properties. When black oxide is applied to most materials, a top layer of oil, which is generally dry to the touch, wax or lacquer, is applied to enhance the corrosion properties. A further advantage black oxide has ...

What is black oxide?

Black oxide, which can be applied to a broad range of products, is classified as a conversion coating. It can be applied to ferrous materials as well as stainless steel, copper, copper based alloys, zinc, and sealed powder metal. It can also be used to blacken silver solder. Black oxide imparts a deep, black, lustrous appearance to ...

Why is hot black oxide important?

Hot black oxide for stainless steel parts consists of the same steps, except for the proprietary blackening bath. Because stainless steels have a tightly adhered oxide layer, it is critical to break through this layer in order to ensure that the surface consists of free iron for conversion.

How hot does it have to be to blacken a blackened drywall?

However, regardless of the material being blackened, all of the cleaning and rinsing is done in warm baths, up to 160°F, and the blackening at 265°F to 285°F. The final step in the process is applying oil to the heated parts. This oil, which is generally evaporative and dry to the touch, seals the black finish by “sinking” into ...

Is black oxide cheaper than powder coating?

Economics – Black oxide is far less expensive than painting, electroplating or powder coating. Productivity – blackening can be done to large batches of parts by tumbling or fixturing, making it ideal for processing small parts. Size Change – There are no significant dimensional changes to a black oxide part.

Is black oxide a hot or cold process?

Black oxide can be applied through either a hot process or a cold process. Metlab only performs the hot process as it is more cost effective, provides superior coverage over ...

What is black oxide?

Black oxide is a conversion coating that is produced through a chemical reaction when component parts are dipped in an alkaline salt solution (which is usually heated). The reaction between the stainless-steel alloy and the solution creates magnetite on the surface of the part. The magnetite acts as a protective barrier, ...

Does black oxide chip?

And unlike painting or plating surface treatments, black oxide will not chip or flake. An after-finish treatment (oil, wax or lacquer) can also be applied which changes the surface finish from satin to glossy, depending on the final part application and aesthetic requirements. The after-finish can also offer improved lubrication characteristics ...

Can you test black oxide finish?

There are several testing options for a black oxide finish. If any of these are required, they will be specified on a part drawing, and usually additional time and cost will be incurred for this testing.

Can black oxide be used in cold or hot?

It can be applied in cold, room temperature or hot processing methods, and may require pre-treatment of the components, depending on the component requirements. Contact Us to Learn More. Another advantage of black oxide is that the process only creates an extremely thin layer of magnetite to create the moisture barrier.

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