How can i make aluminum black

[wasthewiz]

Im in preparation of machining some parts using aluminum alloy and ive been wondering how do i make them black? I know how to anodize aluminum black though ive been worried about the safety coz of the chemicals. so bottomline my questions is, can anybody share some ways to make it black without harm in our home?

 

[xcx1311]

Im in preparation of machining some parts using aluminum alloy and ive been wondering how do i make them black? I know how to anodize aluminum black though ive been worried about the safety coz of the chemicals. so bottomline my questions is, can anybody share some ways to make it black without harm in our home?

just don't touch it with bare hands and rinse it off right away

 

[Jon S]

There is a solution called 'aluminium black', it's OK, isn't as tough as anodising but it will make the ali black. Cerecoat is another option, tricky but doable in a home workshop set up, needs a higher finish than anodising does to really look the part.

 

[bruce]

I do a lot of fiber laser engraving and given the correct settings you can get an okay black color on 6061. I mostly use aluminum black OR you can use black printer’s ink on recessed areas. That’s an old engraver’s trick

 

[Shape Of You]

I do a lot of fiber laser engraving and given the correct settings you can get an okay black color on 6061. I mostly use aluminum black OR you can use black printer's ink on recessed areas. That's an old engraver's trick

This is SO COOL.

Anyway, @wasthewiz, you could try aluminum blackening solutions like Birchwood Casey's stuff. It won't be as tough as full anodizing, but it gets the look.