Machining

Titanium can be economically machined on a routine production basis if shop procedures are set up to allow for the physical characteristics common to the metal. The factors which must be given consideration are not complex, but they are vital to successfully machining titanium.

The different grades of titanium, i.e., commercially pure and various alloys, do not have identical machining characteristics, any more than all steels, or all aluminum grades have identical characteristics. Like stainless steel, the low thermal conductivity of titanium inhibits dissipation of heat within the workpiece itself, thus requiring proper application of coolants.

Good tool life and successful machining of titanium alloys can be assured if the following guidelines are observed:

  • Maintain sharp tools to minimize heat buildup and galling
  • Use rigid setups between tool and workpiece to counter workpiece flexure
  • Use a generous quantity of cutting fluids to maximize heat removal
  • Utilize lower cutting speeds
  • Maintain high feed rates
  • Avoid interruptions in feed (positive feed)
  • Regularly remove turnings from machines

The machinability of commercially pure grades of titanium has been compared by veteran shop men to that of 18-8 stainless steel, with the alloy grades of titanium being somewhat harder to machine.

 

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