Titanium (Ti), named after the giant titans of Greek myth, was first discovered in 1791 by William Gregor, and chemically defined by Martin Klaproth in 1803. It is one of the so-called transition metals and holds the atomic number of 22. Titanium is resistant to aqueous corrosion and is known in industry for its strength, durability and the versatility of its alloys.
Composition
High purity, unalloyed titanium should compose of no less than 99% titanium. However, pure titanium is available in grades 1-4, plus CP Titanium. Of the main grades, Grade 2 is the strongest, with the best anticorrosion properties. CP - or commercially pure - titanium is a low-density product designed for ease of welding.
Common Industry Applications
Titanium is a desirable and versatile metal suitable for use in a wide variety of applications. It is easy to machine and can be alloyed to a number of different grades. Some common industrial applications include:
- 3D printing for orthopaedic implants
- A strong substitute for stainless steel in the aerospace industry
- Medical technology
- Marine and chemical applications
- Heat exchangers
Advantages
- Outstanding all round corrosion resistance
- Titanium alloy is highly resistant to oxidation – when first exposed to air, a thin oxide coating forms that prevent it oxidising further
- Excellent strength to weight ratio
- Grade 2 titanium is highly biocompatible and can be used in many medical applications
- Retains its strength at high temperatures and under exposure to corrosive substances
Disadvantages
- The extraction and refining method is lengthy and complex, involving the careful sifting of titanium ore from large quantities of soil. This process has remained largely unchanged since the 1930s, although more efficient processes are currently being tested. This laborious method means the demand for titanium always outstrips supply, and costs are therefore high.
- Titanium components can cost as much as five times the price of their equivalent in stainless steel.
Components:
At Hydraulic & Gas we stock a range of titanium tubes and tube fittings, suitable for both high and low pressure systems. Fittings include ball valves, compression fittings, needle valves etc. Our tubes and fittings are engineered from high purity Grade 2 titanium.
Alternative Trade Names: CP Titanium, Titanium Alloy, Grade 1-4 Titanium