During the last decade, titanium has proven itself very effective at keeping corrosion at bay. The same goes for many other negative conditions that result from seawater exposure. Due to this, it has been specified at greater rates in the marine, power and chemical industries. People can choose from a wide array of options, including titanium grade 2 round bar and more.
Titanium has wonderful features such as a wide range of strength and low modulus. Also, it has considerable corrosion resistance over a wide span of environmental conditions. Density is relatively low as well. What’s more, titanium’s use is motivated by a demand to lower material cost and improve commercial availability.
The oxide film
Titanium’s inherent corrosion resistance and attractive characteristics come down to its adherent protective oxide film. It’s one that is chemically stable over an impressive range of applications. They range from highly oxidising to mild conditions.
Thanks to the oxide and its beneficial features, it’s expected for titanium alloys to resist most natural water conditions. This is alongside common salt solutions, carbonates, nitrates, phosphates, silicates, sulphates, and chlorides. It’s the same for others with a pH range of 3-12.
Crucially, titanium doesn’t showcase the vulnerability to stress corrosion from chlorides. This is when you compare it to stainless steels. As a result, it is more appropriate for brine applications, seawater, and similar uses. You can use titanium grade 2 round bar or other options.
Applications
The uses for titanium include pressure vessels within the power generation, industrial, and oil & gas industries. Others include steam condensers, fire suppression systems, and offshore rig ballast tanks. Titanium’s seawater immunity offers a reduction or elimination of maintenance. It also has long-term proven life-cycle cost, and reliability.
The U.S. Navy has also incorporated titanium in their vessels for onboard gear. This includes things like hatches, doors, piping, and tanks. The reasoning behind this is rising repair and maintenance costs. They are due to very harsh seawater environments.
Grades
With titanium grades, 2 is the most common. What we have here is a very ductile grade that permits the easy fabrication of components. Even better, there is fantastic crevice corrosion resistance for saltwater applications up to 82ºC. So, products like titanium grade 2 round bar can be great for seawater use.
Titanium 6Al-4V Grade 5 is a general purpose alloy. This provides decent corrosion resistance and higher strength. It is a tad inferior to Grade 2 though.
For those after substantially better crevice corrosion protection at temperatures exceeding 260ºC, you can use Grade 7. Alternatively, Grade 12 is a low cost substitute thanks to 0.3% molybdenum and 0.8% nickel in the alloy.
Titanium tends to be the clear winner when you think of lifetime maintenance costs. A distinct mixture of fantastic corrosion resistance and high strength makes it the prime material for certain applications. This includes steam condensers, seawater cooled heat exchangers, and other marine gear.
Cons to consider
As for whether the material has any downsides, there are a few you should be aware of. Titanium is a useful material, but it’s one that is rare too. It can cost you more than other refractory metals on the market. So, you must factor it into your budget. Saying this, considering the performance you get, it is well worth the investment.
Casting titanium can also prove troublesome thanks to its strength. Moreover, it comes with a low modulus of elasticity. What this means is that it can easily deform due to a relatively small force. However, something to take note of is that you can overcome the problem. You simply need to use specific fabrication and processing methods.
We’ll deliver high quality titanium grade 2 round bar
At Brindley Metals, we always strive to deliver top tier products. They come from reliable producers and we take care when handling, storing, and dispatching them. As a result, you can expect everything to be in order.
If you need titanium grade 2 round bar, or other grades in different forms, you can comfortably work with us. So, please get in touch if you want to order anything.