Titanium is a versatile metal used in a variety of products, including medical and dental implants, modern electronics and aircraft. Pure titanium (also known as industrial titanium) is a silvery, lustrous metal that is stronger yet lighter than steel and highly resistant to corrosion. It is extracted from various ores and minerals, including rutile, ilmenite and sphene, which contain relatively large amounts of titanium dioxide.
In its pure form, titanium metal is light, strong and corrosion-resistant. It has a high tensile strength, which means that it can be stretched and molded without breaking. It is 65% the weight of steel and about 48% the weight of aluminum. It is also very ductile and malleable. Industrial titanium is harder, denser, and more corrosion-resistant and heat-resistant than other titanium alloys. It is used in a range of applications, from aerospace components to medical implants, and is also used in the manufacture of golf clubs, bicycles, and jewelry.
The production of pure titanium involves several steps. Initially, the raw ore is heated to a very high temperature in a furnace, a process known as “smelting”. This process helps to break down the ore and reduce its titanium content into a more easily usable form. The next step is to reduce the titanium content further by adding a mixture of gases, or “reducing agent”, to the furnace, producing titanium dioxide. This material is then placed in a specialized furnace and subjected to extreme temperature and pressure to produce pure titanium metal.
Once the titanium has been produced, it is typically processed by extrusion, forging, or casting. Extrusion is the process of forcing the metal through a die to form it into a particular shape, while forging involves hammering or pressing the metal into a desired shape or shape. Casting involves pouring molten titanium into a mold and allowing it to cool, while annealing is the process of heating the titanium up to a very high temperature to soften, then immediately cooling it to harden the material.
In addition to its use in medical implants and body jewelry, industrial titanium is also common in industrial applications, including the production of surgical instruments, turbine engines, aerospace frames, automotive brakes, and engine parts. Titanium is also used as a reinforcing material in composite construction, due to its high fatigue strength and corrosion-resistance. Pure titanium is often used in specialty applications, such as salt water oxidation, medical implants, and dental fixtures, due to its resistance to corrosion.
Pure titanium has unique properties that make it an ideal material for a variety of applications. Its high strength-to-weight ratio means that it can provide stability and support with minimal added weight, while its resistance to corrosion ensures durability and longevity. It is also non-toxic and biocompatible, making it a safe and effective choice for medical implants and body jewelry. Industrial titanium is a cost-effective, versatile material that can be used to produce a wide range of products.
