1. What Ferro Titanium Is
Ferro titanium is a titanium-iron alloy containing 20 to 40% titanium, with iron as the main balance. It is produced by the aluminothermic reduction of titanium oxide and is used to add titanium to steel and cast iron in a controlled way. The alloy form dissolves readily in the melt and gives predictable titanium recovery.
2. The Metallurgical Functions of Titanium
Deoxidation: titanium is a strong deoxidizer that removes oxygen from the steel bath.
Grain refinement: titanium nitrides and carbides refine the austenite grain, improving strength and toughness.
Inclusion control: titanium modifies oxide inclusions, improving steel cleanliness and fatigue life.
Stabilization: in stainless steel, titanium stabilizes carbon and prevents sensitization.
3. Applications in Steel
Ferro titanium is used in structural steel to refine grain and improve strength, in stainless steel to stabilize carbon and improve corrosion resistance, in tool steel to control grain and hardenability, and in special alloys for aerospace and high-temperature service. Titanium additions also support the production of titanium-microalloyed steel grades with a good strength-to-weight balance.
4. Use in Cast Iron and Foundry Work
In cast iron, titanium is added to refine the graphite structure and improve the mechanical properties of heavy castings. Ferro titanium is also used in foundry steelmaking as a deoxidizer and alloy addition. The particle size is matched to the addition method, from lump for furnace additions to fine fractions for injection.
5. Grade and Quality Considerations
Ferro titanium grades are defined by titanium content, typically 25 to 40%, with controlled aluminium, silicon, carbon and phosphorus. Buyers should verify the titanium content and impurity limits on the certificate, select the size by the addition method, and compare prices on the delivered cost per unit of titanium. The alloy should be stored dry to avoid oxidation.
6. FAQ
Q1: What is ferro titanium used for? To add titanium to steel and cast iron for deoxidation, grain refinement, inclusion control and alloying.
Q2: How much titanium does ferro titanium contain? Typically 20 to 40%, depending on the grade.
Q3: Why is titanium added to steel? It refines the grain, controls inclusions, stabilizes carbon in stainless steel and improves strength and toughness.
Q4: Is ferro titanium used in cast iron? Yes, to refine the graphite structure and improve the properties of heavy castings.
Q5: What grades are available? Grades of 25, 30 and 40% titanium with controlled aluminium, silicon, carbon and phosphorus.
Q6: How should ferro titanium prices be compared? On the delivered cost per unit of titanium, with the impurity profile verified on the certificate.
