Kennley Corporation now offers Black Oxide service for metal parts.
What is Black Oxide?
Black oxide is a conversion coating applied to steel and other ferrous metal parts to improve appearance and corrosion resistance. The process creates a black, matte finish without adding measurable thickness, making it ideal for precise industrial components.
What happens during the process?
The process is a chemical treatment that converts the surface of the metal into magnetite (Fe₃O₄). Sometimes it is referred to as blackening. Unlike paint or plating, the coating becomes part of the metal itself rather than sitting on top of it. After treatment, parts are typically sealed with oil or wax to enhance corrosion protection and durability. In our system we use an oil bath for this step.
What are the Key Benefits?
-Near zero-dimensional change (less than 1 micron) – Ideal for tight-tolerance parts.
-Uniform black appearance – Clean, professional, non-reflective finish.
-Corrosion resistance – Good rust protection especially when sealed with oil or wax. A good solution for industrial parts intended for indoor or controlled environments (not recommended for use in wet environments).
-Appearance – Sleek matte finish reduces glare and leaves a good cosmetic finish.
-Enhanced lubricity – To reduce galling and wear compared to untreated surfaces.
What are the cons?
-Wear resistance is low particularly in high friction or impact applications.
-Not suitable for outdoor applications.
-Over time corrosion resistance is low without occasional re-application of oil as the coating is porous.
-High temperature environments will degrade the coating.
What’s the standard?
Our process conforms and allow us to certify to the MIL-DTL-13924, Class 1 standard. This is the U.S. military specification designation for a black oxide conversion coating on ferrous metals that is sealed with oil.
Under MIL-DTL-13924 Class 1, steel or iron parts undergo a controlled black oxide conversion process that forms a magnetite (Fe₃O₄) layer on the surface. After oxidation, the parts are treated with a petroleum-based oil to enhance corrosion resistance and improve lubricity.
What size parts can we handle?
Capacity – We have a fully submersible volume of 57” x 18” x 12” (almost 12,000 square inches). Some Larger parts are possible through a double dipping process so let us know what you have and we can get you quote.
How long does it take?
Our target is 3 business days depending on work load. We do find that 2 business days or less is common.
What is the cost?
Here is our baseline pricing (as of Jan 2026). The minimum is $60 dollars for a load. A load is the maximum number of parts we can fit in the tank in one cycle by basket or racking. The number of parts per load varies by shape and size of the parts.
Larger/Heavier parts are handled individually and priced at .90 cents a pound. (Double dip parts priced individually)
Other Price Concerns: Rusted or rough scaled surfaces and welded parts may require additional preparation steps such acid etching or other manual cleaning to prepare the parts for the Black oxide process that may add additional cost.
Give us a call for more information 804-275-9088.
