Just my two cents from the machining biz, but I believe the type of plating is not the determining factor in the overall cost of plating it. Setup and handling cost is the issue. My friend that owns a cutting tool mfg biz sends stuff out for TiN coating regularly. But, IMO, it is a relatively ugly gold color (if gold is specified, since there is at least a gray color as well) and is 'frosty' in appearance. BTW, TiN is the gold stuff that the RBL has on some of its parts.
Last edited by Chuck H; 11/15/07 07:28 PM.
