Black Oxide Stainless Steel Split Ring Lock Washers

What is black oxide on a stainless lock washer?

Black oxide is a thin conversion coating that turns the stainless surface a deep, low-gloss black without meaningfully changing dimensions, so the washer keeps its stainless corrosion resistance and its split ring locking action while gaining a matte black appearance. This suits blacked-out builds, electronics, and visible assemblies where a bright washer would stand out. As the fastener is torqued, the sharp ends bite the surface and the spring holds tension. Because the black is a layer on corrosion-resistant stainless, it holds up better than black oxide over plain steel. Tighten to the correct torque and avoid over-tightening.

Why choose black oxide stainless split ring lock washers

• Matte black finish: low-glare look for visible and blacked-out hardware.
• Stainless corrosion resistance: the base metal resists rust.
• Vibration locking: split ring bites the surface to resist loosening.
• Dimensionally stable: the thin coating keeps the washer on-size.

Common applications for black oxide split ring lock washers

• Blacked-out and custom hardware builds
• Electronics and visible assemblies
• Camera and optics rigs
• Finished work needing a low-glare washer

For a bright finish, see 304 stainless split ring lock washers, and browse every material on the main lock washers category.

Black Oxide Stainless Split Ring Lock Washers FAQ

Does black oxide affect corrosion resistance?

The corrosion resistance comes from the stainless base metal, which black oxide does not reduce. Over stainless it holds up better than black oxide over plain steel.

Will the black finish rub off?

Black oxide is a thin conversion layer, so heavy abrasion can wear it over time, but the stainless underneath still resists rust.

Does the finish change how it locks?

No. The split ring locking action works the same. The finish only changes the appearance and adds a slight surface layer.