Blackening steel - Caswell Black-Ox kit

I am sure everyone already knows about this, but as I am new to all of this, you might forgive me. Just completed Tubalcain's toolmakers clamp - only three attempts mainly due to my lack of experience and also general cock-ups. Tell me it gets easier! I wanted to blacken the finished article, and came across Casell's black-ox kit. It's very easy to use and quick and I am as pleased as punch with the results. How it will stand up to wear remains to be seen. I have written up the procedure and included some before and after pictures. More info here: http://www.ps8steam.co.uk/blackening-steel.html

Edited By Kevin Murrell on 16/09/2018 13:07:44

I just used old engine oil. Heat the part and dump it into it,shake it dry.Hope for the best. Two years later it,s still black.

I use heat to get from a golden brown to a deep blue depending on what I want. This is a holder for an indexable Tungsten Carbide lathe tool.

Ian S C

I too use flame bluing. No expensive chemicals - just a torch. I do clean the parts and try to keep finger marks off the bright polished steel before bluing.

I was thinking of using flame bluing for the steel parts (brakes etc) of a locomotive tender that I am refurbishing instead of black paint but I could experiment with chemicals if it truly gives superior protection. Has anybody had the opportunity to compare the two methods?

Phil H

Nicely made clamps and presentation Kevin, well done,
I use a similar process using a product called 'Blakit' and it's lasted well on tools and engine bits I've done, just a quick wipe now and again with WD or engine oil keeps the surface decent, got a few bits to do for my ML7, Quorn grinder and a Black & Decker Valve refacer, so your posting was a timely reminder I need to get them done before winter and damp weather sets in

John

Larry,

Using old/used engine is risky. Engine oils these days and petrol contain a load of highly toxic chemicals that are combined in the used oil. Fumes given off when quenching hot items are seriously bad. Maybe some on this forum will be able to say what these additives are. Having been through throat cancer and out the other side I would not wish that on anyone. Probably caused by doing silly things like that in my youth as I don't smoke and drink in moderation which are the main causes of this cancer.

Is the risk to your health worth risking for few bob!