Enhanced Protection and Appearance for Ferrous Components

Metal Finishing Group provides black oxide coatings for steel components. This chemical conversion process forms a uniform black iron oxide layer directly on the metal’s surface. It offers a valuable combination of mild corrosion resistance, reduced light reflection, and an attractive finish without significantly altering part dimensions.

Black oxide is a crucial surface treatment for various steel parts. It creates a durable, integral finish that is ideal when components require a dark, non-reflective appearance, protection against light corrosion, or improved lubricity for mating surfaces. Unlike plating, black oxide does not add measurable thickness, making it suitable for precision-machined parts.

Our Black Oxide Steel Capabilities: Precision and Versatility

We offer comprehensive black oxide services for a wide range of steel types, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to specifications.

  • Hot Black Oxide Process: We utilize the traditional hot black oxide bath to ensure a robust, uniform magnetite (Fe3​O4​) layer.
  • Minimal Dimensional Change: The conversion coating forms an extremely thin film, typically less than 20 millionths of an inch, ensuring no impact on part tolerances.
  • Post-Treatment Options: We apply a variety of post-treatments, such as oil, wax, or lacquer, to maximize corrosion protection and enhance lubricity.
  • Rack and Bulk Processing: We efficiently handle both rack and bulk processing to accommodate different part sizes and production volumes.
  • Versatile Material Compatibility: Our process works effectively on various ferrous metals, including carbon steels, alloy steels, and tool steels.

Properties of Black Oxide Steel:

Black oxide imparts several key properties that enhance the performance and longevity of steel components:

  • Mild Corrosion Resistance: When properly post-treated with oil or wax, the black oxide layer significantly improves resistance to rust and environmental degradation.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The uniform black finish provides a professional, clean appearance for visible components.
  • Reduced Light Reflection: The non-reflective surface is beneficial for optical instruments, firearms, and other applications where glare must be minimized.
  • Improved Lubricity: Oiled black oxide can reduce friction between mating parts, preventing galling and wear.
  • No Hydrogen Embrittlement: Unlike some plating processes, black oxiding does not introduce hydroen embrittlement, which is critical for components under high stress.
  • Thermal Stability: The finish is stable at elevated temperatures.

Applicable Specifications Wdhere To:

Our black oxide processes meet or exceed industry standards, ensuring the quality and performance of your steel components. We regularly process to:

  • MIL-DTL-13924 (formerly MIL-C-13924) Class 1
  • ASTM D769
  • And various customer-specific requirements.

Typical Black Oxide Steel Applications:

Black oxide for steel is widely applied across numerous industries for its functional and aesthetic benefits:

  • Firearms: Used extensively for barrels, receivers, and other components for corrosion resistance and reduced glare.
  • Automotive: Applied to fasteners, engine components, and brake parts.
  • Machinery and Industrial Equipment: Protects gears, shafts, bearings, and tools.
  • Fasteners: Provides corrosion resistance and a uniform black finish for bolts, nuts, and washers.
  • Aerospace: Used for various non-critical components requiring a dark finish and mild protection.
  • Tools: Enhances the appearance and provides basic protection for hand tools and cutting tools.
  • Decorative Components: Offers an attractive black finish for visible parts in consumer goods and appliances.

Why Choose Metal Finishing Group for Black Oxide Steel?

Metal Finishing Group is a trusted provider of black oxide coatings for steel. Our commitment to process control ensures a high-quality, uniform finish that enhances the performance and appearance of your ferrous components. Partner with us for reliable metal finishing solutions that meet your precise needs.