How Does PVD Chrome Finish on Trailer Wheels Hold Up to Corrosion When Compared to Galvanized Steel

Published 09/21/2017

Question:

I typically launch my boat for fishing in salt water bay in the Puget sound. How does the Chrome PVD finish hold up to Salt Water in comparison to the galvanized finish?

asked by: Steve W

Helpful Expert Reply:

The PVD or physical vapor deposition that you find on wheels like # 460545MBPVD is a tough wear-resistant aluminum coating that is bound to the wheel at a molecular level. It is corrosion resistant until it has been chipped much like chrome plating but harder and more durable.

The galvanized wheels will be corrosion resistant because of the zinc coating.

The PVD will actually give you a stronger finish and because of that will give you more corrosion resistance over a longer period of time.

On a good, better, best scale the aluminum ranks best, PVD finish on steel wheel is better, and both the painted and galvanized are good.

expert reply by: Jameson C