Alpha Titanium (α-Titanium) refers to titanium alloys whose microstructure is predominantly or fully alpha phase (HCP) at room temperature. These alloys are stabilized by alpha-stabilizing elements such as aluminum and oxygen and contain little to no beta stabilizers.
Alpha titanium alloys are valued for corrosion resistance, thermal stability, weldability, and creep resistance at elevated temperatures rather than for extreme strength.
Chemical Composition (Typical)
| Element | Typical Content |
|---|---|
| Titanium (Ti) | ≥ 99.2 – 99.7% |
| Oxygen (O) | 0.08 – 0.40% |
| Aluminum (Al) | 2 – 6% (near-alpha alloys) |
| Tin (Sn) | Optional |
| Zirconium (Zr) | Optional |
| Iron, Nitrogen, Carbon | Trace |
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 240 – 550 MPa |
| Yield Strength | 170 – 450 MPa |
| Elongation | 15 – 30% |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 105 – 115 GPa |
| Hardness | 70 – 200 HB |
Physical Properties
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Density | ~4.5 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | ~1668 °C |
| Crystal Structure | HCP (Alpha Phase) |
| Thermal Conductivity | 15 – 22 W/m·K |
| Thermal Expansion | ~8.6 µm/m·K |
| Magnetic Behavior | Non-magnetic |
Strengthening & Metallurgical Behavior
Alpha titanium alloys are strengthened primarily through solid-solution strengthening by oxygen, aluminum, and tin. Grain size control and cold working can further increase strength, but precipitation hardening is not possible.
The alpha phase remains stable during service, providing excellent resistance to microstructural degradation at elevated temperatures.
Key Characteristics
✔ Outstanding corrosion resistance
✔ Excellent weldability and fabrication
✔ Stable properties at elevated temperatures
✔ High strength-to-weight ratio
✔ Non-magnetic and biocompatible
✔ Resistant to stress corrosion cracking
Available Forms
Sheets & plates
Rods & bars
Tubes & pipes
Forgings
Wires
Heat-exchanger tubing
Applications
Aerospace
Engine casings, exhaust ducts, firewalls, cryogenic tanks
Marine & Offshore
Seawater piping, condensers, heat exchangers
Chemical & Process Industry
Reactors, pressure vessels, acid handling equipment
Medical & Biomedical
Implants, surgical instruments, dental components
Energy & Power
Nuclear components, desalination plants, power condensers
Why Choose Alpha Titanium?
Choose Alpha Titanium when long-term corrosion resistance, thermal stability, weldability, and lightweight performance are more important than maximum strength.
In simple terms:
Alpha Titanium – best for corrosion, heat stability, and reliability
Alpha-Beta Titanium – best for high strength
Beta Titanium – best for extreme strength and flexibility