Titanium is one of the most commonly used metals in additive manufacturing, with a wide range of applications in aerospace, joint replacement and surgical tools, racing car and bicycle frames, electronics and other high-performance products.
Titanium and titanium-based alloys offer high mechanical strength, a high strength-to-weight ratio, and better corrosion resistance than stainless steel. The material makes rockets and aircraft lighter, which saves fuel and increases payload capacity. It also makes electronics such as smartphones and VR glasses lighter in weight. The same goes for medical implants. In addition, when the inherent qualities of titanium are combined with the unique capabilities of 3D printing, the advantages increase exponentially.
Pure titanium is not typically used in engineering applications, but is commonly used in the biomedical market for components such as knee and hip implants. Titanium-based alloys - controlled mixtures of metal compositions that provide specific mechanical properties - are used in a wide range of industries where very specific part properties are required. Metals suppliers have long supplied manufacturers with titanium for casting, but now they are also offering titanium powders specifically formulated for additive manufacturing.
Titanium for Additive Manufacturing
Grade 5 titanium 6Al-4V is the most commonly used titanium alloy in additive manufacturing and is ideal for prototypes and functional components in the aerospace, automotive and military sectors. It is also an excellent material for manufacturing parts with complex geometries and precision, as well as production tooling.
Grade 23 Titanium 6Al-4V is a biocompatible alloy commonly used in medical implants and prosthetics.
Beta 21S grade titanium is stronger than conventional titanium alloys such as Ti-6Al-4V and has better oxidation and creep resistance than conventional titanium alloys such as Ti-15V-3Cr. Of all titanium alloys, Grade 21 titanium has the lowest hydrogen absorption efficiency. It is ideal for orthopaedic implants and aerospace engine applications.Beta Titanium is widely used in orthodontics.
Grade 1 and 2 Cp-Ti (pure titanium) is widely used in medical applications due to its biocompatibility with the human body.
TA15 is a near-alpha titanium alloy with aluminium and zirconium additives.Components made from TA15 have high specific strength, high load carrying capacity and temperature resistance, and are therefore used for heavy components in aircraft and engine manufacturing.
