Both consumer and sports vehicles need to be constructed from sturdy, highly resilient and reliable materials so that they not only perform as expected but are also safe for the drivers and passengers.
Whether it is in the construction of cars we see on the road every day, or specially-crafted racing cars, there is a common element that can be found in almost all of them nowadays – titanium.
But why has titanium become such an essential component in automotive manufacturing? What is the difference between titanium and other metals used in the same industry? And what advantages does titanium offer that is sorely lacking in other metals that make it such a wise choice?
Let’s discuss…
Why titanium is so effective in car and sports car manufacturing
High melting point
Similarly to other durable metals, titanium is blessed with a very high melting point that makes it ideal to be used in environments where high temperatures are guaranteed.
While a high-temperature environment isn’t the first thought that crosses one’s mind when thinking of cars, under the hood there is often a lot of heat being produced, as well as a lot of excess heat from the friction between the wheels and the road.
In order to withstand this heat without failing, certain car parts need to be crafted from metals that will not crack or melt in such a scenario. If constructed using titanium, these parts will serve their purpose well without succumbing to the high temperatures that are produced as a result of the engine – and similar car parts – generating so much power and speed regularly.
Corrosion resistance
All cars need to be able to stand up to the elements, like rain, sleet and snow, otherwise, they wouldn’t last very long and consumers would see no point in shelling out for a new car.
That’s what makes titanium such a great option in the construction of car bodies and similar parts. Because of its thin oxide layer atop its surface, titanium is extremely resistant to corrosion, so it won’t be affected by environmental factors that could cause other metals to rust.
This makes it preferable for cars that aren’t just resilient, but also incredibly long-lasting.
High tensile strength
Much like steel, titanium is incredibly strong and, on average, has a tensile strength of 63,000 psi (pressure per square inch). This makes titanium the perfect choice for applications where significant pressures of impacts could be of concern.
In the case of automobiles, cars need to withstand countless bumps and jolts as a result of travelling over uneven surfaces at high speeds – parts made from titanium will not lose their durability in these situations, making the metal more than ideal.
Lightweight
What separates titanium from most other metals is its impressive combination of both high strength and corrosion resistance, along with the fact it is incredibly lightweight.
Compared to steel, for example, the two metals are roughly similar in strength, but titanium is around 45% lighter, making it an excellent choice for applications where speed is paramount – like automotive manufacturing.
In the construction of racecars, manufacturers need to work with as many lightweight materials as possible to ensure the car is not weighed down too much while it’s in motion. By using titanium, companies can guarantee a premium, resilient and safe product while also contributing to the speed of the vehicle.
Choose an experienced and reliable titanium vendor for your next project
If you’re planning to work on an automotive project in the future, or you’re already well underway, be sure to choose a titanium vendor who can deliver the highest quality titanium that will help your car go fast as well as last.