Material Finishes

Smalley can provide a variety of material finishes to meet specific application requirements.

BLACK OXIDE
MIL-DTL-13924, Class 1
This finish provides a flat black finish. Black oxide is intended more for cosmetic appearance than for
corrosion resistance.

CADMIUM PLATING
Cadmium Plate, AMS-QQ-P-416, Class 2, Type I
Cadmium Plate w/Chromate Dip, AMS-QQ-P-416, Class 2, Type II
Cadmium plating is used on carbon steel to increase the corrosion resistance of the product. The process of cadmium plating spiral retaining rings is costly and subjects the ring to the possibility of hydrogen embrittlement. Smalley offers stainless steel as the preferable option to cadmium.

OIL DIP
This is the standard finish for all Smalley products produced from carbon steel. The oil provides resistance to corrosion in transport and normal storage. The oil dip finish should not be considered a permanent finish.

PASSIVATION
AMS 2700, Method 1, Type 2, Class 3
Passivation is an optional cleaning operation for stainless steel. It provides a bright finish and increased corrosion resistance. Passivation dissolves iron particles and other substances, which have become imbedded in the surface of stainless steel during production. If not dissolved, these foreign particles could promote rusting, discoloration or even pitting.

In theory, the corrosion resistance of stainless steel is due to the thin, invisible oxide film that completely covers the surface of the ring and prevents further oxidation. Removing the contaminates prevents breaks in the oxide film for optimum corrosion resistance.

ZINC PHOSPHATE
MIL-DTL-16232, Type Z, Class 2
This finish is sometimes referred to as “Parkerizing” and appears gray-black in color. The corrosion resistance of phosphate is superior to black oxide but inferior to cadmium plating or stainless steel. Phosphate can not be applied to stainless steel.

VAPOR DEGREASE / ULTRA SONIC CLEAN
This is the standard cleaning and finish for all stainless steels. The process removes oil and other organic compounds from the material surface by use of a chlorinated solvent. The solvent effectively removes oil and grease from the exposed surfaces of the ring or spring. Ultrasonics are used in forcing the solvent to act between the turns of the ring.

VIBRATORY DEBURR / HAND DEBURR
Though all circumferential surfaces and edges of Smalley Rings are smooth, sharp corners are always present on the gap ends due to the cut-off operation. To break the sharp corners, achieving a blended/smooth surface finish, rings may either be vibratory or hand deburred to meet your specifications.