The G.A.L. Gage Co. Cat # 18 Digital Welding Gauge (GAL-18) is an advanced, precision digital measuring instrument designed for professional welding inspectors, quality control technicians, and fabricators. Combining digital accuracy with rugged durability, this gauge streamlines the inspection of butt weld reinforcement and throat dimensions. Featuring an extra-large LCD screen, dual inch/metric scales, and built-in reference angles (60°, 70°, 80°, 90°), it delivers fast, repeatable, and highly accurate measurements in the field or workshop.
Manufactured in the USA by G.A.L. Gage Co. and distributed globally by ABQ Industrial, the GAL-18 digital welding gauge eliminates the guesswork associated with traditional mechanical gauges. It allows operators to instantly switch between decimal inches, fractional inches, and metric units. The tool is equipped with a slider clamp screw to lock measurements securely in place, and a serial output port for seamless data transfer to computers or printers. Built for demanding industrial environments, it features an automatic shut-off function to maximize battery life and an ergonomic body designed for comfortable one-handed operation.
Kit Contents
- G.A.L. Gage Co. Cat # 18 Digital Welding Gauge
- 3V CR2032 Lithium Battery
Features
- X-Large LCD Display: Clear, easy-to-read digital readout minimizes reading errors in low-light or bright shop conditions
- Multi-Unit Readout: Instantly toggle between Inch (Decimal), Metric (mm), and Inch Fractional (128th)
- Differential Measurements: Ability to hold either the zero setting or the measured value at any position on the scale
- Data Output Interface: Equipped with a serial output port to connect with external printers or computers for advanced data logging and process control
- Smart Power Management: Automatically turns on when the main scale is moved or when the ON/OFF key is pressed; features an automatic shut-off after 4 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life
- Integrated Body Angles: Features four precision reference angles machined directly onto the body: 60°, 70°, 80°, and 90°
- Locking Mechanism: Slider clamp screw firmly secures the slide at any desired dimension for precise transfer measurements
Applications
- Weld Inspection & Quality Control: Inspecting butt weld reinforcement height and weld throat thickness
- Structural Steel Fabrication: Verifying joint preparation angles and weld profiles on beams, columns, and structural components
- Oil & Gas / Pipeline Construction: Ensuring compliance with ASME, AWS, and international welding codes in harsh field environments
- Shipbuilding & Heavy Manufacturing: Precision measurement of critical welded joints in marine and industrial equipment
Specifications
| Measuring Range | 0 to 1.25 inches (0 to ~32 mm) |
| Accuracy | 0.001"/0.02 mm |
| Resolution | 0.0005" / 0.01 mm / 1/128th fractional inch |
| Body Angles | 60°, 70°, 80°, 90° |
| Power Supply | 3V CR2032 Lithium coin cell battery |
| Data Output | Serial port interface for data processing |
How to Use
- Power On: Press the ON/OFF button or simply slide the main scale to activate the digital display automatically
- Select Unit: Press the IN/MM button to choose your preferred unit of measurement (Decimal Inch, Metric, or Fractional)
- Zero Setting: Place the gauge on a reference surface or set zero at any desired position using the zero/ABS button for differential measurements
- Take Measurement:
- Position the gauge firmly against the weld or joint (such as checking butt weld reinforcement or throat thickness)
- Use the slider clamp screw to lock the measurement if needed
- Hold & Read: Press the "Hold" button to freeze the value on the screen if inspecting in hard-to-reach areas, then read the exact dimension on the LCD screen
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