Phosphate and Oil
Phosphate coating (zinc or manganese phosphate) is a crystalline conversion layer that holds oil. It gives a dark finish, a good paint base and consistent friction, but little corrosion protection on its own.
Phosphate at a glance
| Types | Zinc phosphate; manganese phosphate |
|---|---|
| Corrosion | Low without oil; better oiled |
| Use | Paint base, break-in lubricity, drywall screws |
| Specification | ASTM F1137/F1137M (fasteners); MIL-DTL-16232 |
Governing standards: ASTM F1137/F1137M-25; MIL-DTL-16232. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing standard always take precedence over this sheet.
These tables carry the same figures as the printed sheet below.
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Phosphate and oil
What it is
FIELD IDENTIFICATION
Phosphate coating (zinc or manganese phosphate) is a crystalline conversion layer that holds oil. It
gives a dark finish, a good paint base and consistent friction, but little corrosion protection on its own.
PHOSPHATE
Dark gray-black phosphate + oil
Phosphate at a glance
Types
Zinc phosphate; manganese phosphate
Corrosion
Low without oil; better oiled
Use
Paint base, break-in lubricity, drywall screws
Specification
ASTM F1137/F1137M (fasteners); MIL-DTL-16232
Governing standards: ASTM F1137/F1137M-25; MIL-DTL-16232. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing standard always
take precedence over this sheet.
torquing any fastener. Verify the current governing standard, project documents, OEM requirements, size, thread, coating and lot certification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Fastener App disclaims liability
arising from reliance on this reference.
Fastener Guide reference FG-6718E9 · thefastenerapp.com/fastener-guide/plating-coatings-finishes/phosphate-and-oil · © The Fastener App. Reference only — verify the current governing standard, drawing and manufacturer data before specifying or installing.

























