High speed steel (HSS) drills are excellent for Titanium so long as it is sharp, but carbide tipped drills still provide the best results and deep hole drilling. Because titanium is not a great conductor of heat, much of the heat goes into cutting tools, highlighting the need for sharp and well-maintained tools.

When CNC machining titanium, low cutting speeds are recommended. Tool tip temperatures can be easily increased by higher cutting speeds, which can compromise tools. Other related factors include sharp tools regularly replaced at the first sign of wear, feed rates high enough to prevent work hardening and the generous use of coolant.

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. We may use the info you submit to contact you and use data from third parties to personalize your experience.

To reduce costs, limit the number of part setups, the number of inspection dimensions or tight tolerances, and deep pockets with small radii.

While Grade 2 Titanium is not as strong as Grade 5, it is lightweight and offers outstanding corrosion resistance overall, in addition to great formability.

Titanium Grade 5 is the strongest titanium alloy with good corrosion resistance and the ability to be welded. Titanium may be selected over other materials such as steel due to its ability to withstand high  and subzero temperatures. Common use cases include aerospace fasteners, turbine blades, engine components, sports equipment and marine applications.

Grade 4 titanium is generally considered the strongest pure titanium, although the least moldable. It also has excellent corrosion resistance and outstanding ductility. Titanium is also lighter weight than some steels, such as stainless, due to its low density.

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. We may use the info you submit to contact you and use data from third parties to personalize your experience.

We exist to eliminate bottlenecks in new product development by integrating the people, processes, and platform you need to source custom parts.

We exist to eliminate bottlenecks in new product development by integrating the people, processes, and platform you need to source custom parts.

Access a wide breadth of capabilities through our highly vetted network.

Our trained employees ensure your parts will be delivered on time and to spec.

Some of the factors that can make CNC machining titanium difficult are: Poor Thermal Conductivity - cutting tools end up taking the burden of heat generation. “Sticky” or “Gummy” Properties - can lead to problems with long “stringy” chips as well as creating built-up edge. Low Modulus of Elasticity - leads to spring back and chatter while machining. High Work Hardening Tendency - further increases difficulty of machining.

Accelerate development with instant quotes, expert DFM, and automated production updates.

Create high quality custom mechanicals with precision and accuracy.

Titanium is very similar to most grades of stainless steel in terms of overall appearance. Titanium can be media blasted or tumbled to achieve a multitude of surface finishes. Additionally, a light, protective, coating may be applied using passivation.