In the world of advanced alloys, experts recognize titanium for its high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. While people widely know grades like 5 and 23, engineers design other alloys for specific, demanding environments. Among these, Grade 6 titanium (Ti-5Al-2.5Sn) is a material designed for performance at elevated temperatures.
This guide provides a detailed look at its composition, key properties, and the primary applications where it excels.
What is Grade 6 Titanium?
Grade 6, known by its chemical designation Ti-5Al-2.5Sn, is an alpha-phase titanium alloy. Its composition is straightforward yet effective for its intended purpose. The addition of 5% aluminum provides solid solution strengthening, while 2.5% tin further enhances its strength and maintains its properties at high temperatures.
Unlike some other titanium alloys, Grade 6 cannot be heat-treated to increase its strength. Its performance is inherent to its composition and is delivered in its annealed condition.
| Element | Composition (%) |
| Titanium (Ti) | Balance |
| Aluminum (Al) | 4.0 – 6.0 |
| Tin (Sn) | 2.0 – 3.0 |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.50 max |
| Oxygen (O) | 0.20 max |
| Carbon © | 0.08 max |
| Nitrogen (N) | 0.05 max |
Key Properties of Grade 6 Titanium
The specific chemical makeup of Grade 6 results in a set of properties that distinguish it from other titanium grades.
High-Temperature Performance
The primary advantage of Grade 6 is its ability to retain strength and structural integrity at temperatures up to approximately 480°C (900°F). This makes it suitable for components that operate under continuous thermal stress, where many other titanium alloys would begin to lose their mechanical properties.
Mechanical Strength
Grade 6 offers good tensile strength, with a minimum yield strength of 760 MPa (110 ksi). This strength remains consistent across a wide range of temperatures, ensuring reliability in both ambient and high-heat conditions.
Weldability
As an alpha-alloy, Grade 6 is generally weldable using standard techniques for titanium. It can be joined in the annealed condition without requiring post-weld heat treatment, which simplifies the manufacturing process for complex assemblies.
Corrosion Resistance
Like other titanium alloys, Grade 6 has strong resistance to corrosion in many environments, including seawater and various chemical media. The absence of molybdenum gives it an edge in specific crevice corrosion conditions found in hot, reducing chloride solutions.
Common Applications of Grade 6 Titanium
Due to its thermal stability and strength, Grade 6 is used in specialized sectors, most notably aerospace.
- Aircraft and Jet Engine Components:Its most common application is in the “hot sections” of aircraft, particularly for compressor discs, blades, and rings in jet engines. These parts operate under high stress and temperature, making Grade 6 a suitable material choice.
- Industrial Gas Turbines:Similar to its use in aerospace, Grade 6 is employed in stationary gas turbines for power generation. Components like turbine blades and discs benefit from the alloy’s ability to withstand prolonged exposure to high heat.
- High-Temperature Fasteners:The alloy is also used for fasteners and other hardware that must maintain their clamping force and structural integrity in high-temperature service.
How Grade 6 Compares to Other Common Titanium Alloys
Understanding the differences between titanium grades is key to selecting the right material for an application. Here’s how Grade 6 stacks up against the most common alternatives.
| Feature | Grade 6 (Ti-5Al-2.5Sn) | Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V) | Grade 23 (Ti-6Al-4V ELI) | Grade 2 (Commercially Pure) |
| Primary Use | High-temperature stability | High strength, all-purpose | Superior toughness, medical | Maximum formability, corrosion resistance |
| Strength (Room Temp) | Moderate | Very High | High | Moderate |
| High-Temp Performance | Excellent | Good | Good | Poor |
| Weldability | Good | Fair | Good | Excellent |
| Key Advantage | Retains strength at 480°C+ | Best all-around strength | Enhanced ductility & toughness | Easiest to form & weld |
| Typical Application | Jet engine parts, turbines | Aerospace structures, fasteners | Medical implants, marine hardware | Chemical processing, architecture |
Sourcing Grade 6 Titanium for Your Project
Selecting the correct material is a critical step in the design and manufacturing process for high-performance components. For projects involving Grade 6 titanium, sourcing from a supplier with technical expertise is essential.
At Daxun Alloy Co., Ltd., we specialize in supplying a comprehensive range of high-performance alloys, including Grade 6 titanium. Our inventory includes various forms such as sheets, plates, bars, and forgings, all sourced to meet stringent industry standards. Our team can assist with material selection and provide the necessary documentation for your application.
If your project requires the high-temperature capabilities of Grade 6 titanium, contact us to discuss your specifications or request a quote.
