Blackening Steel - PS8 Steam

PS8 Steam
Title
Go to content
Projects
Finishing my toolmaker's clamp by blackening (or Parkerizing) the metal.  (More about the tool here.)

In the first batch of images alongside I used some of my cast-off parts to test the system.  The material is EN1A mild steel.

This four part process is from Caswell Europe - the Cold-OX system.  I bought the smallest kit available which is fine for what I need.  The solutions can be used repeatedly up to a point, but that assumes you have somewhere to keep them when made up!

I am as pleased as punch with the results.  It's an easy process, not nasty chemicals and is quick and consistent.  Highly recommended!

This is the supplier's web page

Part 1 Cleaning and de-greasing
Dilute solution with plain water to 50%
Quick scrub all over gently using Scotchbrite
Swill in plain water and leave to dry.
Part 2 Conditioning
Dilute solution with plain water to 10%
Submerge parts and leave for two minutes
Swill in plain water and leave to dry
Part 3 Blackening - dilute with plain water to 25%
Submerge parts
Leave for between five and fifteen minutes depending on the material and how black you want it to become
Swill in plain water and allow to dry.
Part 4 Sealing - use neat (oil based)
Submerge parts for a couple of minute or so, make sure they are all covered
Drain and allow to air dry for about 45 m

You will need a handy tap and sink, four trays big enough to submerge the parts, some Scotchbrite or similar, rubber gloves and kitchen towel.

Turns out you will also need a mate to operate the iPhone camera as the home button doesn't respond while wearing rubber gloves.
(C) 2018 Kevin Murrell
Back to content