At Brindley Metals we offer materials that are useful for a huge range of different applications. For example, we have titanium grade 7 round bar, plate or sheet that can make parts for chemical processing, air pollution control, desalination, and more. We also have other grades and different metals in many forms. That means you should be able to find what you need.
A look at electrolysis
This is one of the most important techniques to trigger a chemical reaction. It can effectively separate elements in different substances. As a result, it is central to a number of industrial operations, including chemical manufacturing, fuel production, and metallurgy.
To do electrolysis you need the right equipment. Anodes are vital because they release electrons and oxidise during the reaction. They need to be made of the right materials.
Traditionally anodes were graphite or even platinum. These materials were good choices because they are amongst the least reactive. Of the two, platinum is the more durable and erodes very slowly. However, the cost of using it is much higher. Graphite has the drawback that it crumbles with time. But, the lower costs made it the main choice.
There was a big change here in the 1980s though. People began using titanium with a mixed metal oxide (MMO) coating. It was originally devised for seawater electrolysis to produce chlorine. However, it is a viable option for various others processes too. You can start with a raw product like Titanium grade 7 round bar, plate or sheet, then apply a coating to enhance the properties. Common ones include Ruthenium-Iridium oxide and Ruthenium-Titanium.
Advantages of using titanium in anodes
There are a number of clear benefits here. For one, the titanium can boost the purity of end products. A big issue with graphite is the dissolution. It can lead to carbon pollution in the products. This does not happen with titanium because it is stable.
A major advantage is the longer life cycle. As we said above, graphite crumbles eventually. This can happen in around 8 months. Titanium is far more durable and can resist corrosion. As a result, it has a working life that can exceed 6 years. It translates to less downtime as well as lower maintenance and replacement costs.
Titanium anodes can also achieve a higher current density. With graphite it can be 8A/dm2. Titanium can increase it to an impressive 17A/dm2. That means every single tank can be far more productive. It also decreases labour costs.
The higher stability of titanium anodes is beneficial too. It means the distance between electrodes will not change at any point. This maintains the consistency of operations. Because graphite crumbles, there can be changes in the distance and conditions can become unstable.
Impressively, using titanium also results in electricity savings. The metal has a low working voltage, much less than graphite. As a result, consumption can fall by 10-20%. This can translate to saving millions of kilowatt hours every year.
The switch to titanium is also very easy. The anodes can be incredibly precise thanks to modern engineering. So, they can meet the exact specifications to replace current parts. Plus, they are lighter and again reduce the labour cost.
Do you want to order titanium grade 7 round bar, plate or sheet?
Electrolysis is one of the many uses for titanium, showcasing why it is among the most crucial metals in the world. We are proud to stock it and support clients who need to use it. Our range is extensive, including pure grades and alloys in different forms. We can advise any client to help you select the right one.
So, if you want titanium grade 7 round bar, plate or sheet or other options, work with us. You can get in touch today if you have any questions.