Caswell Stainless Steel Blackener

Stainless Steel Blackener with Caswell Stainless Steel Blackener Concentrate

Stainless steel blackening can be done with Caswell Stainless Steel Blackener concentrate. Original product: Caswell Stainless Steel Blackener.

Available in:

• 250 ml makes 1 liter
• 500 ml makes 2 liters
• 1000 ml makes 4 liters

Properties

This concentrate creates an even gray to iridescent black result on stainless steel, works at room temperature in seconds to a few minutes and is easy to apply in a plastic container. Stronger mixing ratios than 1 to 3 are possible for darker colors. Distilled water not included. Demineralized or tap water is possible, read more about different types of water. A sealer is not necessary but can optionally be used for extra protection, for example Caswell Penetrating Sealer or Caswell Sealer. The liquid can be stored in a sealed container and reused.

The color of stainless steel after chemical blackening

Ordinary steel or iron can turn deep black with products such as black oxide for steel. Stainless steel usually gives a gray to iridescent blue-black appearance due to the chromium and nickel in the alloy. Stainless steel from the 300 series oxidizes more difficult and often remains lighter. Stainless steel from the 400 series can turn out darker.

Which Caswell option do I need

• Complete set for stainless steel blacks with sealer look at Caswell Stainless Steel Chemical Blacks Kit.
• Chemically blackening steel and iron can be done with Caswell Black Oxide or Caswell Mega Black.

Activating stainless steel and mixing ratios

For an even dark result, the passive chrome layer on stainless steel must first be removed. This can be done by briefly treating with Verzinkshop Activator, a hydrochloric acid stain of 30 to 50 percent or mechanically with Scotch Brite, steel wool or sandpaper. Rinse after activation and treat immediately without drying.

• Stainless steel 300 series starts with 50 percent concentrate and 50 percent water
• Stainless steel 400 series starts with 25 to 33 percent concentrate in water

Finding the right color

• Test a small piece of clean stainless steel in pure concentrate
• Then test 1 to 3 dilution with distilled water
• Based on the difference, match the final mixing ratio
• Difficult stainless steel may require undiluted or stronger work

Blacken stainless steel yourself

• Mix concentrate and water in a suitable plastic container according to the manual
• Degrease and clean thoroughly
• If necessary, activate briefly with 30 or 50 percent hydrochloric acid and rinse well
• Dip the part for seconds to minutes until the desired shade is achieved or work with a brush or sponge
• Rinse in a designated container, not under the tap
• Optionally finish with a sealer and let it dry

Protecting blackened stainless steel

For added protection, a sealer can be used such as a water-based Caswell Sealer or an oil sealer of your choice.

What is chemical blackening of stainless steel

Chemical blackening of stainless steel is a conversion coating in which the surface reacts without noticeable dimensional change, suitable for precision parts. This product is intended for stainless steel. For steel and iron, use Caswell Black Oxide or Caswell Mega Black.

Advantages

• Thin conversion layer with no size change
• Professional appearance with gray to iridescent black result
• Easy to apply by dipping or with a brush or sponge