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Is defined as the chemical treatment of stainless steel with a mild oxidant, such as nitric
acid solution for the purpose of the removal of free iron or other foreign matter, but is not
generally effective in removal of heat tint or oxide scale on stainless. Passivation may also
include the removal of sulfides from the surface of the metal for the purpose of maximizing
corrosion resistance.
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 the black oxide solution. These oxidizing salts include
penetrates, catalysts, activators and proprietary additives which all take part in the chemical
reaction. The result of this chemical reaction is the formation of black iron oxide, magnetite
(Fe3O4), on the surface of the metal being coated. Black oxide has a range of unique properties
and benefits that can be applied to a variety of industries.
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. A properly applied post treatment, allowing full absorption of the
supplementary coating into the pores of the black oxide finish, enhances the corrosion protection
to the metal, while producing a deeper black appearance. 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. The oil can be either water-
soluble or water displacing and can be controlled so that a fairly heavy oil film is left on the part or
so that the part is virtually dry to the touch. Of course, less oil means less corrosion protection. A
clear wax or acrylic may also be used as an alternative, dry to the touch post treatment, where
absolutely no oil film is desired.
Black Oxide Service, Inc. 1070 Linda Vista Drive, San Marcos, CA 92078
www-blackoxide.co Office: (760) 744-8735 Fax: (760) 744-7985
Post Treatments for Improved Corrosion Resistance
Improved Lubricity:
Oil post-treatment not only protects against corrosion, but the oil itself results in smoother running
mating parts.
Anti-Galling:
Where break-in of mating parts is necessary, the anti-galling surface lets the outer lubricating
layer be sacrificed during initial contact while work-hardened surfaces are formed.
Decorative Finish:
The resulting lustrous black finish adds visual appeal and a “quality” image at a very low cost.
Harder parts (40 Rockwell and above) tend to have glossier finishes. Softer parts tend to have
matte finishes.
Moving machine parts, hand tools and surgical instruments coated with Black Oxide reflect less
light and reduce eye fatigue when used under bright lights.
Black Oxide Service, Inc. 1070 Linda Vista Drive, San Marcos, CA 92078
www-blackoxide.co Office: (760) 744-8735 Fax: (760) 744-7985
Frequently Asked Questions:
Question: Does Black Oxide come in other colors?
Answer: No. Black Oxide is a natural reaction of the metal with the Black Oxide bath.
This finish can vary from shiny parts with a tight smooth and/or hardened surface to
matte parts with a porous non-hardened surface. An oil post-treatment will help give a
shiny finish. A wax or rust inhibitor will make the finish matte.
Question: Will the Black Oxide coating crack or fracture if the part is bent or twisted after
Black Oxide?
Answer: No. Black Oxide is an integral formed surface of the metal that allows for
forming of the part.
Solar Turbines, Goodrich Aerostructures, Autosplice, General Dynamics, Rockwell Collins, Honeywell,
Asigma, Alturdyne, VQ Orthocare, Vertech and many more….
Black Oxide Service, Inc. 1070 Linda Vista Drive, San Marcos, CA 92078
www-blackoxide.co Office: (760) 744-8735 Fax: (760) 744-7985