The density of titanium and its alloys is only 4.51, less than that of steel, and only half the weight of steel, but its strength is similar to that of ordinary carbon steel. Titanium belongs to thermodynamically unstable, very active metals. Titanium metal can react with air to form a natural oxide layer (titanium dioxide), which is stable and strongly adherent.
The protective oxide film, which is exceptionally good, determines the corrosion resistance of titanium, thus giving it excellent corrosion resistance. Furthermore, its light texture, high tensile strength and good mechanical properties are another outstanding feature of titanium alloys. Titanium alloys can be divided into: corrosion-resistant titanium alloys, structural titanium alloys, heat-resistant titanium alloys and low-temperature titanium alloys.
The difference between titanium and stainless steel
1. Can be distinguished by color
Titanium is a little dark, giving off a cool color and a little darker than steel. The steel is white, the clear type. The two colors are very distinct and can be easily seen.
2. Can be distinguished by chemical methods
That is, by immersion in nitric acid. Titanium does not react, while stainless steel reacts strongly once it is immersed. It is difficult to distinguish between pure titanium and titanium alloys by appearance.
3. It can be distinguished by scratches on ceramic tiles
Titanium can leave gray-black marks on ceramic tiles, but stainless steel cannot leave marks.
4. Titanium has good corrosion resistance
Below 550°C, titanium alloys tend to form a dense oxide film on the surface, therefore they are not easily oxidized and have high resistance to corrosion by atmosphere, sea water, steam and some acids, bases and soft media.
5. Titanium has good thermal resistance
The melting point of titanium alloy is 1660 ℃, which is higher than that of iron, and it has higher thermal resistance, can work below 550 ℃, and also has better toughness at low temperatures.
6. Titanium is difficult to process
Welding, electroplating and cold drawing are very difficult. Welding and electroplating must be carried out in a vacuum or in an atmosphere filled with inert gas (vacuum ionic plating).
