Titanium alloys share similar physical, chemical and mechanical properties. As a result titanium is traditionally thought to be difficult to machine.
At Rickard Metals, we have 30 years of of experience overseeing custom titanium machining services and are happy to answer any questions you might have.
Our custom titanium machining services include:
How to Machine Titanium
Machining titanium can be a relatively simple process if you are aware of the following properties of the alloy:
- Heat Conductivity When Machining – Titanium is a poor conductor of heat and thus the heat generated by the cutting action, does not dissipate quickly. As a result, most of the heat is concentrated on the cutting edge and the tool face.
- Chemical Reactivity When Machining – Titanium has a strong alloying tendency or chemical reactivity to the cutting tool materials at tool operating temperatures. This causes galling, welding, and smearing, along with rapid destruction of the cutting tool.
- Mechanical “Springiness” When Machining – Titanium has relatively low modulus of elasticity, thereby generating more “springiness” than other metals, such as steel. As a result, in the machining process the work has a tendency to move away from the cutting tool unless heavy cuts are maintained or proper backup is employed. Additionally, slender parts tend to deflect under tool pressures, causing chatter, tool rubbing, and tolerance problems. Rigidity of the entire system is consequently very important, as is the use of sharp, properly shaped cutting tools.
- Fatigue When Machining – As a result of fatigue properties, titanium has a tendency to create surface damage if certain machining techniques are used. Proper care must thus be exercised to avoid the loss of surface integrity, especially during grinding. The basic fatigue properties of many titanium alloys rely on a favorable compressive surface, stress induced by tool action during machining.