What is titanium?
The lightweight metal titanium is a chemical element. It occurs in the Earth’s crust, almost exclusively bound as a component of minerals. It has a low density and is ductile as well as temperature and corrosion-resistant. It has quite a light silver colour. Pure titanium is only moderately hard. Even low quantities of alloying additives can have a positive effect on its strength and makes it a good option for applications requiring high corrosion resistance together with low weight and high tensile strength.
Where is titanium used?
Titanium is frequently used as a microalloying component for steel. Even in low concentrations, it gives steel added toughness, strength and ductility. Titanium alloys are very expensive and are therefore only used when the highest standards are required.
- Automotive industry
- Shipping (shafts, propeller parts)
- Aviation and aerospace technology
- Military (protective equipment)
- Medical sector (implants, prostheses, etc.)
- Electronics (laptop/smartphone/smart watch casings)
- Outdoor sector (sports equipment, blades, etc.)
- Jewellery industry
Recycling titanium
A significant amount of swarf is generated during the manufacture of titanium components. In the production of large components, this can constitute as much as 90%. Titanium alloys are melted down in induction furnaces and the different materials separated out. This results in titanium ingots, which are then reintroduced to the industrial material cycle for further processing.
