The most common telescopic gauges are plated with a satin chrome finish. This is where a thin layer of chromium is electroplated onto the steel which aids the steel’s corrosion resistance and hardness.
Electroplating is where a telescopic gauge is placed in a solution containing dissolved chromium. An electrical current is then pulsed through the telescopic gauge and the solution. This makes it negatively charged, and the chromium solution positively charged, so that they are attracted together.
ADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES
Corrosion resistant
Hard
Readily available
Duller finish than titanium coating
Titanium coated
Titanium coating provides a gold appearance to the telescopic gauge for aesthetic purposes. It is not as common as a satin chrome finish and makes these telescopic gauges more expensive.
ADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES
Wear resistant
Attractive
Corrosion resistant
Limited availability
Expensive
Which type of coating should you choose?
The best type of coating to choose would be satin chrome plating, as this will be more easily sourced and cheaper, without affecting the tool’s longevity.
