We are a specialist provider of metal products. Our collection is extensive, and includes the likes of grade 7 titanium round bar and plate. There are also brasses and yellow metals, as well as high purity silvers. With so much in stock, we are ready to meet the specifications of our clients.
Titanium is a material people depend on because of its extreme corrosion resistance and strength. However, insufficient weld preparation can render it useless. It is the same for the introduction of oxygen and similar contaminants to the weld area. Below we want to take a closer look at titanium welding and the practices to use.
The most impressive material
Aluminium welding may be the most documented procedure among non-ferrous materials. Yet, we would argue that titanium is the most impressive. It is substantially stronger than aluminium but still lighter than ferrous steels. In fact, it offers the highest strength-to-weight ratio.
Titanium is among the metals most frequently used in fabrication and manufacturing today. It does famously cost more. Thankfully, the expense receives justification when you take the corrosion resistance into account. It is the same for the lower repair costs and longer service life.
Engineers taking the long view understand that extending a component’s life more pays for the expense. This is when you take materials and labour that go into replacement/repair into account. Thus, titanium has seen extensive use in medical, maritime, desalination, and aviation applications. Others include nuclear, military, power generation, and chemical.
As for hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and foreign contaminants, they are titanium’s kryptonite. Defects and contamination from the welding process destroy the corrosion resistance. It is the same for its strength. Such a situation will demand that you scrap this expensive material or cut it away. Therefore, protection, cleanliness, and preparation during the welding operation are essential.
Keep it clean
Above all you must ensure your titanium is clean. This is so true that you cannot touch it with your bare hands. Body oils shall contaminate it. So will grime and grease. Use nitrate gloves instead during the prep procedure. When possible, you need to make a dedicated workstation. This is one that lowers the danger of cross contamination from other metals. If you need grade 7 titanium round bar and plate, please come to us.
The right cutting methods
Another thing to keep in mind is you need to avoid using cutting methods that leave a smeared surface. Instead, use a high-speed circular saw over a band saw when you can. Smeared surfaces can produce a lack of fusion. Thus, you have to file them prior to welding to prepare the edge.
The tools you use to grind and cut your titanium also should be solely for this project. Keep your distance from soft grinding utensils that could have materials embedded into them. You should normally use a carbide deburring file or tool. Don’t employ stainless steel brushes or grinding wheels that you also make use of to prep other materials. Cross contamination can happen if you do.
Weld in specific ways
It is also necessary to weld your metal in certain ways. Your success is primarily going to depend on your preparation. Yet, there are numerous vital points you have to remember whilst working. One thing you need to do is cleanse the filler metal and clip off the end to uncover the pure titanium prior to welding.
Additionally, you must examine the shielding gas mechanism for flaws or leaks. These are ones that might enable moisture or oxygen to get in the weld puddle. Allow for two to five seconds of pre-flow as well to guarantee sufficient protection of the joint. Use a high frequency arc starting too. As for tack welds, you need to make them under the same conditions as the final weld.
Make sure you also keep your filler metal inside the envelope of the shielding gas. If the it gets contaminated or if you cease welding, clip it and start over. Allow shielding gas to flow over the weld for 20 to 25 seconds when you finish to safeguard the seam. This is when it cools below the contamination threshold.
When you are done, the titanium will inform you if it is an appropriate weld or not via its colour. Colours ranging from brown to straw to silver tend to be acceptable. With the blues, greys, greens, and whites, it is the opposite. Take a step back to see where you are going wrong and check where contamination is getting into the weld. Get rid of the right variable and you should get the colours and quality weld you desire.
We’ll provide the grade 7 titanium round bar and plate you need
At Brindley Metals, we strive to offer the best possible service. When someone orders their metal, we aim to be quick with the deliveries. In addition, we ensure that our goods come with some of the most competitive price tags. Not to mention, we can give you expert knowledge and advice if you need any help.
So, if you are after grade 7 titanium round bar and plate merchandise, please let us know. We have a range of options to suit most needs.