Titanium is a metal that has approximately half the density of steel but is extremely durable. It is gaining popularity for its use in the medical, automotive and aerospace industries. Even jewelers are beginning to use titanium more in their designs. Titanium is also twice as elastic as steel. This peculiar metal requires special treatment when being machined or cut. Here are some general guidelines for machining titanium:
1. Make sure to use a titanium alloy in its softest state. Doing so will make them easier to work with.
2. Keep your tools sharp. Dull tools cause your equipment to heat up.
3. Use large amounts of coolant to help keep thermal stability and prevent surface irregularities as well as tool failure.
4. Use appropriate cutting geometries in order to reduce heat generation, cutting forces and deflection of parts.
5. Use a constant feed of material to reduce workplace hardening.
6. Use a larger tool with a greater nose radius whenever possible. This will decrease the cutting force required for any one point and prevents damage to local areas.
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