The increasing popularity of Grade 9 titanium alloys has brought with it some questions about weldability. Grade 9, alternatively referred to as Ti-3-2.5, offers improved resistance to corrosion and better mechanical strength, and is now routinely used in applications as diverse as aircraft hydraulic tubes and high specification bicycle frames.
Weldability of Ti-3-2.5 is good provided that the necessary precautions are taken. Due to the reactive nature of titanium and its alloys, inert gas shielding must be in place on both the OD and ID of tubes and protection assured when welding plate and sheet.
Huntingdon Fusion Techniques HFT® has products designed specifically to provide the necessary inert gas protection. HFT® manufactures a range of advanced tube and pipe purging systems, including QuickPurge® and PurgElite® coupled with Weld Purge Plugs for purging the insides of tubular components, which can accommodate all tube and pipe diameters between 13 mm and 2,235 mm (up to 88).
For total inert gas protection, particularly useful for welding complex shapes, can be assured through the use of Flexible Welding Enclosures®. All these products are in widespread use globally.
Courtesy of Huntingdon Fusion Techniques HFT®.