ASTM B348: A Comprehensive Guide
Table of Contents
When it comes to titanium and titanium alloy bars and billets, ASTM B348 is the standard specification that governs their production and quality. But what exactly is ASTM B348, and why is it crucial in various industries? Let’s dive into the details.
Overview of ASTM B348
ASTM B348 is a specification that covers several grades of titanium and titanium alloy bars and billets. These materials are widely used in aerospace, medical devices, automotive, and other high-performance industries due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility.
Key Details of ASTM B348
- Title: Standard Specification for Titanium and Titanium Alloy Bars and Billets
- Standardizing Body: ASTM International
- Material Types: Pure Titanium and Titanium Alloys
- Applications: Aerospace, Medical Devices, Automotive, Marine, Chemical Processing
- Properties: High Strength, Corrosion Resistance, Low Density, Biocompatibility
Types of Titanium and Titanium Alloys under ASTM B348
Common Grades and Their Composition
| Grade | Composition | Properties | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | Pure Titanium (99.5% Ti) | Excellent corrosion resistance, ductility, and formability | Softest and most ductile of all grades |
| Grade 2 | Pure Titanium (99.2% Ti) | Good balance of strength and ductility | Widely used for industrial applications |
| Grade 3 | Pure Titanium (99.1% Ti) | Higher strength than Grade 2, less ductile | Used where higher strength is required |
| Grade 4 | Pure Titanium (99% Ti) | Highest strength among pure grades, lower ductility | Suitable for high-pressure applications |
| Grade 5 | Ti-6Al-4V (6% Al, 4% V) | High strength, light weight, corrosion resistance | Most commonly used titanium alloy |
| Grade 7 | Ti-0.2Pd (0.2% Pd) | Improved corrosion resistance in reducing and oxidizing environments | Used in chemical processing industries |
| Grade 9 | Ti-3Al-2.5V (3% Al, 2.5% V) | Good strength and formability | Used in aerospace and industrial applications |
| Grade 11 | Ti-0.15Pd (0.15% Pd) | Similar to Grade 1 but with improved corrosion resistance | Used in marine and chemical industries |
| Grade 12 | Ti-0.3Mo-0.8Ni (0.3% Mo, 0.8% Ni) | Improved corrosion resistance and strength | Suitable for chemical and marine applications |
| Grade 23 | Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Extra Low Interstitial) | High strength, excellent fracture toughness | Used in medical implants and aerospace |
Properties and Characteristics of ASTM B348 Materials
Understanding the properties of these materials is essential for selecting the right grade for your application. Let’s break down the key characteristics:
Mechanical Properties
| Property | Grade 1 | Grade 2 | Grade 3 | Grade 4 | Grade 5 | Grade 7 | Grade 9 | Grade 11 | Grade 12 | Grade 23 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 240 | 345 | 450 | 550 | 895 | 345 | 620 | 240 | 483 | 860 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | 170 | 275 | 380 | 485 | 825 | 275 | 483 | 170 | 380 | 795 |
| Elongation (%) | 24 | 20 | 18 | 15 | 10 | 20 | 15 | 24 | 18 | 10 |
Physical Properties
| Property | Grade 1 | Grade 2 | Grade 3 | Grade 4 | Grade 5 | Grade 7 | Grade 9 | Grade 11 | Grade 12 | Grade 23 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 4.51 | 4.51 | 4.51 | 4.51 | 4.43 | 4.51 | 4.48 | 4.51 | 4.54 | 4.43 |
| Melting Point (°C) | 1668 | 1668 | 1668 | 1668 | 1604 | 1668 | 1638 | 1668 | 1650 | 1604 |
| Modulus of Elasticity (GPa) | 105 | 105 | 105 | 105 | 110 | 105 | 103 | 105 | 106 | 110 |
Applications of ASTM B348 Materials
Given their excellent properties, ASTM B348 materials find use in various demanding applications.
Industrial Applications
| Industry | Applications | Preferred Grades |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace | Aircraft components, fasteners, landing gears | Grade 5, Grade 9, Grade 23 |
| Medical | Surgical implants, dental implants, prosthetics | Grade 23, Grade 5 |
| Automotive | Engine components, exhaust systems, connecting rods | Grade 5, Grade 9 |
| Marine | Shipbuilding, offshore structures, desalination plants | Grade 2, Grade 12, Grade 11 |
| Chemical Processing | Heat exchangers, reaction vessels, piping | Grade 2, Grade 7, Grade 12 |
Applications Table
| Application | Description | Recommended Grades |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Components | High-strength, lightweight parts for aircraft and spacecraft | Grade 5, Grade 9, Grade 23 |
| Medical Devices | Biocompatible implants and surgical tools | Grade 23, Grade 5 |
| Automotive Parts | Lightweight, durable engine and exhaust components | Grade 5, Grade 9 |
| Marine Equipment | Corrosion-resistant parts for marine environments | Grade 2, Grade 12, Grade 11 |
| Chemical Processing | Equipment for handling corrosive substances | Grade 2, Grade 7, Grade 12 |
Specifications, Sizes, and Standards
Understanding the specifications and sizes available for ASTM B348 materials is crucial for proper selection and application.
Specifications Table
| Grade | Diameter Range (mm) | Length Range (mm) | Standards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | 6.35 – 152.4 | 300 – 6000 | ASTM B348, ASME SB-348 |
| Grade 2 | 6.35 – 152.4 | 300 – 6000 | ASTM B348, ASME SB-348 |
| Grade 3 | 6.35 – 152.4 | 300 – 6000 | ASTM B348, ASME SB-348 |
| Grade 4 | 6.35 – 152.4 | 300 – 6000 | ASTM B348, ASME SB-348 |
| Grade 5 | 6.35 – 203.2 | 300 – 6000 | ASTM B348, AMS 4928, MIL-T-9047 |
| Grade 7 | 6.35 – 152.4 | 300 – 6000 | ASTM B348, ASME SB-348 |
| Grade 9 | 6.35 – 152.4 | 300 – 6000 | ASTM B348, AMS 4928 |
| Grade 11 | 6.35 – 152.4 | 300 – 6000 | ASTM B348, ASME SB-348 |
| Grade 12 | 6.35 – 152.4 | 300 – 6000 | ASTM B348, ASME SB-348 |
| Grade 23 | 6.35 – 203.2 | 300 – 6000 | ASTM B348, AMS 4930 |
Suppliers and Pricing Details
The availability and cost of ASTM B348 materials can vary based on the supplier, grade, and quantity.
Suppliers Table
| Supplier | Grade Availability | Price Range (per kg) | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Titanium Metals Corp | Grade 1, 2, 5, 7, 23 | $50 – $200 | USA |
| Baoji Titanium Co. | Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9 | $40 – $180 | China |
| Timet | Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 23 | $55 – $210 | USA, Europe |
| VSMPO-AVISMA | Grade 1, 2, 5, 9, 23 | $45 – $190 | Russia |
| Western Superconducting | Grade 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 12 | $50 – $195 | China |
Comparing Pros and Cons of ASTM B348 Grades
Selecting the right titanium grade requires weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Comparison Table
| Grade | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | Excellent corrosion resistance, high ductility | Lower strength compared to other grades |
| Grade 2 | Good balance of strength and ductility | Slightly less corrosion resistant than Grade 1 |
| Grade 3 | Higher strength than Grade 2 | Less ductile |
| Grade 4 | Highest strength among pure grades | Least ductile among pure grades |
| Grade 5 | High strength, corrosion resistance, widely available | More expensive, harder to machine |
| Grade 7 | Excellent corrosion resistance in specific environments | Limited to niche applications |
| Grade 9 | Good formability, moderate strength | Limited availability compared to Grade 5 |
| Grade 11 | Similar to Grade 1 with better corrosion resistance | Lower strength |
| Grade 12 | Good corrosion resistance and strength | More expensive |
| Grade 23 | High strength, excellent for medical applications | Very expensive, limited to high-performance applications |
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is ASTM B348? | ASTM B348 is a standard specification for titanium and titanium alloy bars and billets. |
| Why is titanium used in aerospace? | Titanium is used in aerospace due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent corrosion resistance. |
| Which grade of titanium is best for medical implants? | Grade 23 (Ti-6Al-4V ELI) is preferred for medical implants due to its biocompatibility and high strength. |
| How does Grade 5 titanium compare to Grade 2? | Grade 5 has higher strength and is used in more demanding applications, while Grade 2 offers a good balance of properties at a lower cost. |
| What industries use ASTM B348 materials? | Industries such as aerospace, medical, automotive, marine, and chemical processing use ASTM B348 materials. |
| How are titanium bars and billets produced? | They are typically produced through processes such as melting, forging, and rolling, followed by heat treatment and machining. |
| What makes titanium corrosion resistant? | Titanium forms a passive oxide layer on its surface that protects it from corrosion. |
| Can titanium be welded? | Yes, titanium can be welded, but it requires specific techniques and equipment to avoid contamination and ensure strong welds. |
| What is the difference between Grade 5 and Grade 23 titanium? | Grade 23 is an extra low interstitial version of Grade 5, offering improved ductility and fracture toughness for medical applications. |
| Where can I buy ASTM B348 titanium? | ASTM B348 titanium can be purchased from various suppliers like Titanium Metals Corp, Baoji Titanium Co., and Timet. |
Conclusion
ASTM B348 sets the standard for titanium and titanium alloy bars and billets, ensuring high quality and reliability for various applications. Whether you’re in aerospace, medical, automotive, or chemical processing, understanding the different grades and their properties can help you choose the right material for your needs. With its unique combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility, titanium remains a critical material in advanced engineering and manufacturing.
By following these guidelines, this article aims to provide a comprehensive, SEO-optimized resource on ASTM B348, engaging readers with detailed information, practical insights, and a conversational tone.
Share On
MET3DP Technology Co., LTD is a leading provider of additive manufacturing solutions headquartered in Qingdao, China. Our company specializes in 3D printing equipment and high-performance metal powders for industrial applications.
Inquiry to get best price and customized Solution for your business!
Related Articles
About Met3DP
Recent Update
Our Product
CONTACT US
Any questions? Send us message now! We’ll serve your request with a whole team after receiving your message.
Metal Powders for 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing
COMPANY
PRODUCT
cONTACT INFO
- Qingdao City, Shandong, China
- [email protected]
- [email protected]
- +86 19116340731