Blackening
Blackening Services by Shree Kamakshi Industries
Blackening, also known as Black Oxide treatment, is a chemical conversion coating process. It is not an electroplating process. The metal component is immersed in an oxidizing solution (typically a hot alkaline bath for steel), which chemically reacts with the surface to form a uniform, deep black layer of magnetite (an iron oxide). This coating is very thin and highly adherent, preserving the component's original dimensions.
Key Benefits
The primary advantages of the black oxide finish are aesthetic and anti-galling, making it ideal for many mechanical and optical uses:4
Aesthetic and Anti-Glare: Provides a uniform, deep black colour that is non-reflective (low glare), which is essential for optical, photographic, and instrumentation components.
Dimensional Integrity: Since the coating is extremely thin (typically less than 5$0.5$ 6$\mu m$), it does not significantly alter the part's dimensions, making it perfect for precision-machined components with tight tolerances.7
Mild Corrosion Protection: While not as resistant as zinc or nickel, when sealed with a final oil or wax finish, it provides good mild corrosion protection and resistance to handling rust.8
Anti-Galling and Lubricity: The black oxide layer, especially when oiled, improves lubricity and reduces friction between moving parts, helping to prevent seizing or "galling".
Applications
Blackening is primarily used for functional and visual appeal in precision components:
Tooling and Machinery: Gears, shafts, fasteners, machine tool accessories, and cutting tools.
Defense and Firearms: Components that require a non-reflective, durable finish.
Optics and Photography: Internal camera parts, fixtures, and instrument components to prevent light reflections.
General Hardware: Fasteners and brackets where a clean, discreet black appearance is desired.
Why Choose Us?
Dimensional Consistency: Our controlled chemical process ensures the blackening layer meets specifications without impacting the tight tolerances of machined parts.
Flawless Pre-Treatment: Even though it's not plating, successful blackening still requires an impeccably clean surface. Our process includes thorough Soapwash, Ultrasonic cleaning, and Etching to ensure the black finish is uniform and adherent.
Enhanced Protection: We ensure proper sealing (oil or wax) after blackening to maximize the mild corrosion resistance and anti-galling properties of the finish.
Integrated Service: We are your single source for finishing needs, offering reliable blackening alongside our full range of plating services (Nickel, Tin, Zinc) with established expertise since 2012.