The Benefits Of Blackening Metal

Posted on: 17 January 2020

When it comes to metal finishing, there are many different methods that can be used to finish various types of metal, including steel, aluminum, and iron. Each finishing option has its own benefits and may be a better fit for different types of metal. Learning about the benefits associated with different metal finishing techniques allows you to see which option may be right for the metal you need coated, colored, or finished. Here are a few of the benefits that are associated with a metal finishing technique referred to as "blackening" and "hot metal blackening". 

The Blackening Process Coats the Metal, Protecting It Against Moisture

The blackening process is many conducted by dipping the metal in a hot oxide coating. The oxide coating turns the metal black, while also adding a thin layer of coating to the metal. This thin layer of coating can help to protect the metal against some of the elements that it may encounter that can lead to rust or corrosion, primarily moisture, water, and humidity. Not every metal finishing technique coats the metal and protects it against the elements, but this finishing technique does. 

The Blackening Process Leaves Behind a Dark Black Color That Doesn't Fade or Wear Off

Another benefit of blackening metal is that this metal finishing technique leaves behind a dark brown or black color that does not fade or wear off. Ultimately, the chemical reaction covers the exterior of the metal in a dark layer, which outside elements cannot remove. Those who are looking for a black wrought iron fence or other types of black metal may prefer this method to other color-changing options, such as painting, as it lasts the lifespan of the metal, whereas items such as paint do not. 

Blackening Is One of the Most Affordable Metal Finishing Techniques Available

The final benefit associated with blackening metal is that blackening is one of the most affordable metal finishing techniques available. Other options, including plating and powder coating, are significantly more expensive than blackening. If you want to finish your metal inexpensively, blackening may be one of the best options available to you. 

Blackening metal finishing can only be done on ferrous metals, such as steel and iron. The majority of ferrous metals are magnetic, so you can use a magnet to determine if the metal you want coated is likely ferrous. If you are ready to learn more about metal finishing techniques, including blackening metal, contact an industrial metal finishing company today. 

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Industrial Goods and Beyond

When you work in manufacturing, you know there's a wide range of goods to be produced. Manufacturing sheet metal is quite different from manufacturing gears or bolts, for example. However, in spite of the variety in products, there are some basics that remain true regardless of the product. Your processes need to be consistent and precise. You need to have good quality control in place and to test your items regularly. You can learn more about those topics and others right here on this blog, where we focus on an array of manufacturing topics. Start reading, and watch your knowledge base begin to grow.

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