303 and 316 stainless steel products are hot treated, resulting in components with improved water and chemical resistance, as well as additional aesthetic appeal. The process, also known as black oxide treatment, coats the surface of the steel with a thin black oxide (magnetite) layer, creating a matte black finish ideal for harsher conditions and chloride-rich environments. Unlike painted coatings which can chip and peel, the blacking process forms an integrated layer directly onto the steel itself, enhancing its inherent corrosion resistance. The treatment does not affect the fastener's dimensions or fit, ensuring compatibility with high-precision components. The result is a modern, sleek black finish that brings both visual appeal and superior functionality to any project where aesthetics are key. “The Noir coating is durable, is resistant to rust and other forms of corrosion via its chromium content, and becomes a thin, invisible, self-repairing layer of steel” says Mark Moody, Sales and Marketing Director at WDS Components. “These properties allow INOX Noir components to be used through many extreme conditions. The range is competitively priced, low maintenance, very sustainable, and most importantly we think it looks great.” Almost all of the WDS 316 stainless steel range can be treated with the Noir process if requested. The combination of corrosion resistance and an attractive finish makes WDS INOX Noir components perfect for high-end automotive, entertainment, stage and screen, or aerospace applications where both performance and style matter. The matte black finish reduces light reflection, ideal for visible structures, furniture, stage or outdoor filming setups, or modern design elements. Blackened fasteners are often chosen for their sleek look and functional durability in high-tech devices and electronic components. WDS sent 40 steel fasteners to an independent third party to be rigorously tested; we tested our INOX Noir products against the same products in different materials, using a 240-hour salt spray test to ASTM B117-19 standards. The batch included a mixture of WDS INOX Noir fasteners in 316 stainless steel, a leading competitor’s blacked A1 stainless steel, WDS natural 316 INOX stainless steel and WDS blacked mild steel fasteners. Only the WDS INOX Noir range remained unaffected by the exposure to salt water throughout the test, clearly outperforming the other tested products and proving its suitability for almost any outdoor application or chemically exposed environment. The WDS INOX Noir range represents a significant advancement in both the aesthetics and functionality of stainless steel fasteners. Whether for high-performance automotive, aerospace, or design-focused applications, INOX Noir delivers long-lasting durability and style.

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