CASWELL IB-A385 Blackener

( Brand: Caswell ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: IB-A385 )

Review CASWELL Aluminum Blackener A385

The Caswell Industries IB-A385 Blackener A385 is a versatile and high-performing product designed specifically for blackening iron and steel surfaces. This blackener is an essential tool for artists, hobbyists, and professionals who want to create a deep, rich black finish on their metalwork.

The IB-A385 Blackener is a liquid solution that comes in a convenient 16-ounce plastic bottle. It is formulated with a unique blend of ingredients, including iron oxide and other pigments, that react with the iron or steel surface to produce a black color. The blackener is odorless and non-toxic, making it safe for use in both home and shop environments.

To use the Caswell Industries IB-A385 Blackener, first prepare the metal surface by cleaning it with soap and water or a degreaser. Allow the surface to dry completely before applying the blackener. Apply the blackener evenly to the surface using a brush, roller, or cloth. The blackener should be applied in a thin, even coat. Allow the blackener to sit on the surface for a few minutes to allow it to react with the metal.

Once the blackener has had time to react, it can be removed with water or a solvent, such as acetone or mineral spirits. The resulting black finish is smooth and even, with a deep, rich color that is highly durable. The blackener can be used on a variety of metals, including iron, steel, brass, and copper.

The Caswell Industries IB-A385 Blackener is easy to use and produces consistent results. It is a must-have tool for anyone working with metal, whether for art, hobby, or industrial applications. It is also a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods of blackening, such as bluing or rusting.

In summary, the Caswell Industries IB-A385 Blackener is a high-quality, versatile, and easy-to-use product that is perfect for creating deep, rich black finishes on iron and steel surfaces. It is non-toxic, odorless, and comes in a convenient 16-ounce plastic bottle. It can be used on a variety of metals and is easy to apply and remove. Whether you are an artist, hobbyist, or professional, the Caswell Industries IB-A385 Blackener is an essential tool for your metalworking projects.

The Caswell IB-A385 Blackener A385 is a popular product used for anodizing aluminum parts to achieve a uniform black color. Here are some pros and cons of buying this product for your anodizing needs:

1. Consistent Black Color: The Caswell IB-A385 Blackener A385 is known for producing a consistent, uniform black color on aluminum surfaces. This is crucial for maintaining a professional appearance and meeting quality standards.

2. Easy to Use: The blackener is relatively easy to use, with straightforward application and baking processes. This can save time and reduce the learning curve for those new to anodizing.

3. Cost-Effective: Compared to some other anodizing processes, using a blackener like the Caswell IB-A385 can be a more cost-effective solution for achieving a black finish on aluminum parts.

4. Versatile: The blackener can be used on various types of aluminum alloys and can be applied to both small and large parts.

1. Odor: The Caswell IB-A385 Blackener A385 emits a strong odor during the baking process. Proper ventilation is necessary to minimize the risk of health issues and to keep the workspace comfortable.

2. Potential for Over-Baking: Over-baking the parts can result in a slightly different color or even damage to the aluminum surface. Careful monitoring of the baking process is essential to ensure optimal results.

3. Limited Shelf Life: Once opened, the blackener has a limited shelf life, typically around 6 months. Proper storage in a cool, dry place is necessary to maintain the product's effectiveness.

The Caswell IB-A385 Blackener A385 is a reliable and cost-effective solution for achieving a uniform black finish on aluminum parts. Its ease of use, versatility, and consistent results make it a popular choice among anodizers. However, the strong odor during the baking process and the limited shelf life are potential drawbacks that should be considered. Proper handling, ventilation, and storage can help mitigate these issues.

If you're looking for a reliable and cost-effective way to achieve a black finish on aluminum parts, the Caswell IB-A385 Blackener A385 is a strong contender. However, be sure to consider the potential odor and limited shelf life when making your decision. Proper ventilation, careful monitoring of the baking process, and storage in a cool, dry place can help minimize these issues.

Details:

An immersion or swab-on finish at room temperature for aluminum surfaces. Completely colorfast through age or sunlight. Mild acidic liquid concentrate used full strength for swab-on finishing and touch up or diluted with 4 parts water immersion. ALUMINUM BLACKENER A385: Aluminum Blackener Ideal For Touching Up Black Anodized Parts: Vary the color from a rich pewter gray to deep black by changing dilution and immersion times.

Frequently used to produce an imitation pewter finish on aluminum surfaces. Does not dimensional change the finished part. Very stable under a lacquered finish. Perfect for blacking aluminum castings that cannot be anodized.

part #: iba385 price

• $31.61

specifications glosschroma:

• brand: Caswell
• mpn: Ib-a385

payments glosschroma:

• wallet: Apple-pay
• other
• credit card: Diners-club

shipping glosschroma:

• class: Standard
• service: FedEx Ground / FedEx Home Delivery
• type: Calculated
• cost: $20.83
• transit: 10-16 Days
• carrier: FedEx

offer glosschroma:

• options: Ship-to-home
• quantity: 10
• availability: In Stock
• started: February 24, 2026
• sold: 0

seller glosschroma:

• city: Lyons, New York
• # reviews: 7682
• rating: 94.9%

general glosschroma:

• Building Hardware > Paint, Stain Varnish > Other Paint, Stain Varnish
• condition: New

returns glosschroma:

• time: 30 Days
• policy: Returns Accepted
• method: Money back
• paid by: Seller

Caswell IB-A385 Is Similar To:

• Caswell A311 Flemish Grey And Blackener 16 Fl Oz (55.2% similar) Diluted 5% to 10% by volume solutions produce lighter Flemish and statuary bronzes with 1/3 minutes of immersion. 15% to 20% by volume solutions produce black blackish-brown us 10B oil rubbed finishes on copper and brass with immersions of 1/3 minutes. Desirable underlying red tones revealed...(October 19th, 2025)
• Caswell A325 Pewter Blackener (61.8% similar) Use as a dip at room temperature. For pewter only. Mix 15% concentrate with 85% water. Pewter blackener: pewter blackener...(February 24th, 2026)