Titanium Vs Aluminum: Comprehensive Comparative Analysis
Titanium vs. Aluminum Weight
When it comes to weight, aluminum is the clear winner.
It is significantly lighter than titanium, making it a popular choice for applications where weight savings are crucial, such as in the aerospace and automotive industries.
For example, aluminum has a density of approximately 2.7 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) and is approximately 66% lighter than titanium while titanium is much denser at around 4.5 g/cm³.
This difference means aluminum parts can be made thicker and still be lighter than their titanium counterparts, contributing to overall weight reduction without sacrificing structural integrity.
Titanium vs. Aluminum Strength
Titanium has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than aluminum.
It is incredibly strong, with commercially pure titanium having a tensile strength of about 434 MPa, and some titanium alloys having tensile strengths that can be increased to more than 1,000 MPa.345 to 1,380 MPa (50,000 to 200,000 psi)
In comparison, aluminum has a tensile strength range of 140 to 480 MPa (20,000 to 70,000 psi).
This makes titanium an ideal material for applications requiring high strength and durability, such as medical implants, military armor, and high-performance sports equipment.
Titanium vs. Aluminum Price
Titanium is more expensive than aluminum due to its more complex extraction and refinement processes.
The cost of raw titanium can be up to ten times higher than that of aluminum. For instance, while aluminum prices typically range from $1 to $1.50 per pound, titanium can cost anywhere from $10 to $15 per pound.
This significant price difference makes aluminum the more cost-effective choice for large-scale applications or projects with tight budget constraints.
Corrosion Resistance
Titanium excels in corrosion resistance, especially in harsh environments. It forms a stable oxide layer that protects it from rust and corrosion, making it ideal for marine, chemical, and medical applications. Aluminum also forms an oxide layer that offers good corrosion resistance but is less effective in extremely corrosive environments compared to titanium.
Thermal Conductivity
Aluminum has higher thermal conductivity (205 W/m·K) compared to titanium (21.9 W/m·K). This property makes aluminum more suitable for applications requiring efficient heat dissipation, such as heat exchangers and electronic housings. Titanium, with its lower thermal conductivity, is better suited for applications where heat resistance is essential.
Machinability
Aluminum is easier to machine than titanium. It requires less energy and wears down tools more slowly, making it more cost-effective for large-scale manufacturing processes. Titanium, while stronger and more durable, is harder to machine due to its strength and toughness, leading to higher machining costs and slower production rates.
Sustainability
Both metals are recyclable, but aluminum has a higher recycling rate. Recycling aluminum saves up to 95% of the energy required to produce new aluminum from raw materials, making it an environmentally friendly option. Titanium is also recyclable but the process is more energy-intensive.
