Titanium’s legendary strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance make it indispensable in aerospace, medical, and chemical industries. But not all titanium is created equal. Commercially pure (CP) titanium grades—especially Grade 1 and Grade 2—are among the most widely used yet frequently confused. At Daxun Alloy Co., Ltd., we supply high-integrity titanium globally, and this guide cuts through the complexity. Whether you’re designing surgical implants or chemical processing equipment, understanding these grades prevents costly mistakes. Let’s dive deep.
What is Grade 1 Titanium? The Softest & Most Ductile CP Grade
Grade 1 Titanium: Properties & Characteristics
Grade 1 (UNS R50250) is the softest, most formable commercially pure titanium grade. Its minimal oxygen and iron content deliver unmatched ductility.
Key Properties (ASTM B265 Standard):
- Tensile Strength: 240 MPa (min)
- Yield Strength: 170 MPa (min)
- Elongation: 24% (min) – Highest among CP grades
- Corrosion Resistance: Exceptional in oxidizing/chloride environments (e.g., seawater, nitric acid).
- Weldability/Formability: Superior cold-forming capability; ideal for complex shapes.
Top Applications:
- Chemical processing linings & heat exchangers
- Medical implants (bone screws, dental fixtures)
- Desalination plants & marine hardware
- Architectural cladding requiring extreme bending
What is Grade 2 Titanium? The Balanced Workhorse Grade
Grade 2 Titanium: Properties & Characteristics
Grade 2 (UNS R50400) is the most popular CP titanium grade, offering a balanced blend of strength, corrosion resistance, and affordability. Slightly higher oxygen content than Grade 1 boosts strength while retaining good workability.
Key Properties (ASTM B348 Standard):
- Tensile Strength: 345 MPa (min) – ~40% stronger than Grade 1
- Yield Strength: 275 MPa (min)
- Elongation: 20% (min)
- Corrosion Resistance: Near-identical to Grade 1 in most environments. Resists pitting in seawater.
- Weldability/Formability: Excellent weldability; moderate cold-forming capability.
Top Applications:
- Aerospace hydraulic tubing & brackets
- Power plant condenser tubes
- Pharmaceutical reaction vessels
- Offshore oil & gas components
Grade 1 vs Grade 2 Titanium: Head-to-Head Comparison
Critical Differences: Strength, Cost, and Use Cases
|
Property
|
Grade 1 Titanium
|
Grade 2 Titanium
|
Practical Impact
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Tensile Strength
|
240 MPa (min)
|
345 MPa (min)
|
Grade 2 handles higher stress loads.
|
|
Formability
|
★★★★★ (Best)
|
★★★☆☆ (Good)
|
Grade 1 for extreme bends; Grade 2 for simpler shapes.
|
|
Corrosion Resistance
|
Excellent
|
Excellent
|
Near-identical performance in most environments.
|
|
Cost
|
Higher (due to lower yield)
|
10-15% lower than Grade 1
|
Grade 2 offers better value for structural uses.
|
|
Machinability
|
Gummy; requires sharp tools
|
Easier to machine
|
Grade 2 reduces production downtime.
|
When to Choose Grade 1:
- Your design requires extreme bending or deep drawing (e.g., medical mesh).
- Maximum corrosion resistance in hot chloride solutions is critical.
- Weight isn’t a constraint, but failure risk is unacceptable.
When to Choose Grade 2:
- You need higher strength without alloying (e.g., pressure vessels).
- Budget constraints exist, but corrosion resistance can’t be compromised.
- Parts require moderate forming + structural reliability (e.g., aircraft fittings).
Critical Note: Never substitute Grade 2 for Grade 1 in cryogenic applications. Grade 1’s superior ductility prevents brittle fracture below -50°C.
Debunking Common Myths
Grade 1 vs Grade 2: 3 Misconceptions Clarified
- “Grade 2 is always better because it’s stronger.”
Reality: Strength isn’t universal. Grade 1’s ductility prevents cracks in dynamic loads (e.g., seismic zones). - “Corrosion resistance differs significantly.”
Reality: Both resist seawater, chlorine, and acids equally. Exceptions exist in reducing acids (e.g., sulfuric), where Grade 2’s iron content slightly reduces performance. - “Grade 1 is obsolete.”
Reality: Medical device approvals (ISO 5832-2) still mandate Grade 1 for permanent implants due to biocompatibility.
Conclusion
Grade 1 titanium dominates when ductility and corrosion resistance are non-negotiable. Grade 2 titanium shines as the cost-effective workhorse for structural applications needing reliability. Neither is “better”—success hinges on aligning material properties with engineering demands.
Still unsure? At Daxun Alloy Co., Ltd., our metallurgical team provides free material selection consultations.Daxun Alloy Co., Ltd. provides high-quality titanium materials to customers from all over the world. Various grades of titanium materials, including first grade titanium and second grade titanium, can be supplied to meet various project requirements. If your project requires titanium materials, Daxun Alloy Co., Ltd. is the best choice. Please contact us immediately, we will provide you with the best price and service.
