FORMING TITANIUM

Commercially pure titanium is readily formed at room temperature, using techniques and equipment suitable for steel. When correct parameters have been established, tolerances similar to those attainable with stainless steel are possible with titanium and its alloys.

Recognition of several unique characteristics of titanium will aid in ease of forming:

1. The room temperature ductility of titanium and its alloys, as measured by uniform elongation, is generally less than that of other common structural metals. This means that titanium may require more generous bend radii and has lower stretch formability. Hot forming may be required for severe bending or stretch forming operations.

2. The modulus of elasticity of titanium is about half that of steel. This causes significant spring back after forming titanium for which compensation must be made

3. The galling tendency of titanium is greater than that of stainless steel. This necessitates close attention to lubrication in any forming operation in which titanium is in contact (particularly moving contact) with metal dies or other forming equipment.

Preparation for Forming

Normally, titanium surfaces are acceptable for forming operations as received from the mill. Gouges and other surface marks introduced during handling should be removed by sanding. To prevent edge cracking, burred and sharp edges should be filed smooth before forming.