Torch Coloring of Cold Rolled Steel

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PUSCHERCOLOR , however the colors are a result of Lead sulphide being deposited. Some of the chemicals contain lead...

This works much better on brass, but does work on steel as well.

You might also consider a brass or nickel coating on your steel, which will be a more reactive substrate...

You should also look at electrochemical methods of depositing colors.

milo

I know that if CR steel is heated to various temperatures and cooled the oxide formed can/will deposit in varying thicknesses and orientations to give a wide array of colors as the light reflects from the surface. I read about the relationships in a textbook on rust formation, but I dont know if this is the kind of thing you are after.

Case coloring is the result of the surface hardening processes used on mild steel. Two of the important processes are bone and charcoal and cyanide. Obtain a text on case hardening and you will find all the information you need. The colors are produced by thin layers of oxide on the surface of the metal. They are fragile and easily scratched. In the gun trade, they are sometimes protected by a thin coat of clear varnish.

I have documented this whole process on my armouring blog.... but only the purples and blues, sorry.

http://southtowerarmouringguild.blogspot.com/