Here at Ti-Tek, we are proud to supply a wide range of products, including titanium rods, bars and plates. We are titanium suppliers who have gained a wealth of experience over recent years and can help you to find exactly what you need – regardless of the industry you work in.
Titanium, Ti
Titanium is a chemical element with the atomic symbol “Ti”. It has an atomic number of 22 and is silver in colour.
One of the main reasons titanium is often the preferred choice for so many industries is because it combines the quality of being light weight with high strength. Titanium rods and bars that are alloyed are used to form parts in high-speed aircraft as they are renowned for their reliability and durability.
History
It was William Gregor, an English chemist/mineralogist, who discovered titanium in 1791. It was then later named in 1795 by Martin Heinrich Klaproth, a German chemist.
Titanium is the ninth most common metal in the Earth’s crust and was first industrially extracted in the 1930s. It has also been found on the moon and is used today to manufacture critical parts in the aerospace industry.
Many titanium suppliers, like us at Ti-Tek, provide products that make up the structure of a titanium sheet, plate and tube. The Boeing 737 Dreamliner is 15% titanium and we supply the essential materials for its manufacture.
How does titanium compare to steel?
Any titanium bar is equally as strong as steel but is 40% lighter – making it easier to work with. Aerospace engineers often choose the titanium bar as it is great for heavy-duty applications that require high strength.
Titanium bars aren’t only suitable for the aerospace industry…they can also be used in the automotive industry. If you’re trying to decide between a stainless steel exhaust and a titanium exhaust, there are a number of factors to take into consideration. Stainless steel and titanium are both metals with exceptional durability but they are very different in weight which can often impact your decision. A titanium exhaust is much lighter than one that is made from steel, making it easier to install.
What is titanium found in?
Did you know that 95% of titanium is used as a dioxide in toothpaste, plastic, paint and sunscreen?
It’s a metal that has many different uses – the titanium sheet is one of the only metallic sheets that can be used for 3D printing.
A titanium rod can be used for surgical instruments – providing medical professionals with the accuracy that they need to perform intricate surgical procedures. Prosthetic devices also contain titanium, as it is non-reactive and not absorbed by the body. A titanium rod can be used to provide a hip, shoulder or knee replacement.
Titanium wire is yet another material that is used medically but it’s also used to create beautiful pieces of jewellery. Jewellery that is made from titanium wire is not only designed to be elegant but is also made to last longer.
Want to know more about our stock? The team here at Ti-Tek are always on hand to offer guidance, so be sure to call us today on 0121 382 4121.