Titanium-based Metal Powder

Properties

1. High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Titanium-based powders provide a high strength-to-weight ratio. They are employed in applications that require components with mechanical stability and reduced weight.
2. Corrosion Resistance: Titanium exhibits substantial resistance to corrosion, thereby maintaining an extended operational lifespan even under severe conditions.
3. Biocompatibility: Titanium powders are utilised in the medical field to manufacture implants and prosthetic devices because of their biocompatibility.
4. Thermal Stability: Titanium’s high melting point and thermal stability render it applicable for high-temperature applications.
5. Fatigue Resistance: Titanium-based powders exhibit high fatigue resistance, thereby prolonging the service life of printed parts.

Applications

1. Aerospace: Titanium-based metal powders are used in the manufacture of components that are lightweight, mechanically stable and heat resistant for both aircraft and spacecraft.
2. Medical: In the medical sector, these powders are applied in the production of biocompatible implants, prostheses and surgical instruments.
3. Automotive: The automotive industry utilises titanium powders in the production of lightweight components that contribute to improved fuel efficiency.
4. Industrial: Various industrial applications employ titanium-based powders to produce durable components capable of withstanding extreme conditions.

Advantages of Ti-based Metal Powders in 3D Printing

1. Design Flexibility: 3D printing with titanium-based powders enables the production of geometries that require detailed design. Conventional manufacturing methods find these geometries challenging to produce.
2. Material Efficiency: Additive manufacturing deposits powder only where needed, thereby reducing material waste.
3. Customisation: Titanium powders permit the manufacture of parts tailored to specific requirements, particularly in the medical and aerospace sectors.
4. Rapid Prototyping: The ability to produce prototypes swiftly shortens development cycles and reduces the time until market launch.

Production Methods

1. Gas Atomisation: This method produces spherical titanium powder particles that are suitable for 3D printing. It ensures uniform layer deposition and controlled printing quality.
2. Plasma Atomisation: This process yields fine spherical powders with good flowability and high purity. They are appropriate for applications that require precision.
3. Hydride–Dehydride (HDH): This method converts titanium sponge into powder through hydration and subsequent dehydration. The resulting particles have irregular shapes.