What are the advantages and benefits of black oxide coating?
Dimensional Stability – Black oxide adds no more then 5 to 10 millionths of an inch to the dimension of a part (it also penetrates to an approximate depth of 5 to 10 millionths). For all intents and purposes, the as-formed dimensions do not change (as they do when plated or painted).
Anti-galling – Where break-in of mating parts is necessary, the anti-galling surface lets the outer lubricating layer be sacrificed during the initial contact and abrasion while work-hardened surfaces are formed. The black oxide itself has a hardness of 5.5 on the Moh’s scale.
Improved Lubricity – Oil post-treatment not only protects against corrosion, but will add lubricity in mating parts.
Decorative Finish – The resulting lustrous black finish adds visual appeal and a “quality” image.
Corrosion Protection – Black oxide coating can give stainless and carbon steel components corrosion resistance.
Reduced Light Glare – Moving machine parts, hand tools and surgical instruments coated with black oxide reflect less light and reduce eye fatigue when used under bright lights.
Cost Competitive – It is very difficult to achieve the same protection, appearance, and performance qualities from other finishing processes as black oxide.