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Blackening steel for decorative use

Q. I am using metal automotive brake tubing for the arms of a wood body chandelier. I wish to blacken these using Jax iron and steel blackener.

1. How should I clean the metal before applying the chemical? Does it need a solvent bath? Do I need to dip it in some form of acid to completely clean the metal?

2. How long should I immerse the metal in the Jax solution to achieve the desired effect?

Herman V.
- St. Marys, Ontario, Canada

A. The metal should be as clean as possible, Herman. If you are doing only a few pieces, you can scrub with pumice [on eBay or Amazon] and a household cleaner like Mr. Clean, and rinse well. Immediately go into an acid activator like diluted muriatic acid [affil links], and rinse well, then try your Jax or whatever blackener according to the instructions.

You may find our FAQ on black oxide and cold blackening helpful. Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

Q. I have a large piece of hot rolled steel I intend to use as a fireplace surround. After fabricating, there are greasy fingerprints and smudges along the edges / sides that I haven't been able to remove. we used lacquer thinner [on eBay or Amazon], which cleaned it up nicely, except for the greasy smudges. I intend to put a clear-coat finish after I get it cleaned. Please advise.

Anne Larson
- Victor Idaho
November 18, 2012

A. Hi Anne.

Powdered pumice [on eBay or Amazon] in water, with a bit of detergent and a tampico scrub brush [on eBay or Amazon] is the safe and sure way. Good luck.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
November 19, 2012

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