1. Introduction
In the past 48 hours, global demand for high-performance metal powders has surged following announcements from major aerospace firms about expanding their use of additive manufacturing for next-generation jet engines. Companies like GE Aviation and Airbus are increasingly relying on titanium powder—especially spherical Ti6Al4V—for lightweight, complex components. This renewed focus highlights why understanding titanium powder’s properties, pricing, and supply chain matters now more than ever.
Whether you’re an engineer, procurement specialist, or hobbyist exploring metal 3D printing, knowing the ins and outs of titanium powder can save time, money, and effort. From pure titanium powder to advanced composites like titanium diboride, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
2. What Is Titanium Powder?
Titanium powder refers to finely divided particles of titanium metal or its compounds. It comes in various forms, including pure titanium powder, titanium alloy powder (like Ti6Al4V or Ti64), and ceramic derivatives such as titanium nitride powder, titanium carbide powder, and TiO2 powder. Particle size, shape (spherical vs. irregular), and purity dictate its suitability for different applications.
Common production methods include gas atomized titanium powder (ideal for 3D printing due to its spherical morphology) and HDH (Hydride-Dehydride) titanium powder, which is more cost-effective but less flowable. You might also encounter terms like titanium dust or burnt titanium powder coat—but these usually refer to byproducts or surface residues, not engineered powders.
3. Key Types of Titanium Powder
3.1 Pure and Alloyed Metal Powders
Pure titanium powder is used where corrosion resistance and biocompatibility are critical—think medical implants. Meanwhile, titanium alloy powder like Ti6Al4V powder (also called Ti64 powder) dominates aerospace and automotive sectors due to its superior strength-to-weight ratio. Ti6Al4V powder price typically ranges higher than pure grades but offers unmatched performance in demanding environments.
3.2 Specialty Titanium Compounds
Beyond metal powders, engineered compounds serve niche roles:
- Titanium nitride powder: Used for hard coatings and wear resistance.
- Titanium carbide powder and titanium diboride powder (TiB2 powder): Extremely hard ceramics for cutting tools and armor.
- TiO2 nano powder: A white pigment in cosmetics, sunscreens, and paints—not to be confused with metallic titanium powder.
- Titanium nanopowder and titanium coated diamond powder: Used in advanced composites and polishing applications.
Note: Titanium flash powder is a pyrotechnic mixture and should never be confused with industrial-grade titanium metal powder.
4. Titanium Powder for 3D Printing
Additive manufacturing has revolutionized how we use titanium. Titanium powder for 3D printing must meet strict standards: high sphericity, low oxygen content, and consistent particle size distribution (usually 15–45 microns). Gas atomized titanium powder is preferred here because it flows smoothly in powder-bed fusion systems.
The titanium powder for 3D printing price varies widely based on alloy type and certification. As of mid-2024, titanium 3D printing powder costs between $300 and $800 per kg, with Ti6Al4V powder price sitting at the higher end. Always verify if your supplier offers AMS or ASTM-certified batches—critical for aerospace or medical use.
5. Pricing and Procurement
Understanding titanium powder price per kg is essential for budgeting. Factors influencing titanium powder cost include purity, particle morphology, production method, and order volume. Pure titanium powder may start around $200/kg, while certified spherical Ti64 powder can exceed $700/kg.
When you buy titanium powder, consider reputable titanium powder suppliers like Carpenter Technology, Allegheny Technologies (ATI), or international players such as VSMPO-AVISMA. Many offer titanium powder for sale online with technical datasheets and batch certifications.
Also, don’t overlook related materials. Some projects may benefit from molybdenum powder or tungsten powder—both used in high-temp applications. Molybdenum disulfide powder (MoS2 powder) serves as a dry lubricant, while tungsten carbide powder excels in wear-resistant coatings. Prices for molybdenum powder and tungsten powder per kg vary based on grade, with global tungsten & powders corporation being a key player in the latter market.
6. Production Methods Compared
6.1 Gas Atomization
Gas atomized titanium powder produces spherical particles ideal for additive manufacturing. The process involves melting titanium under vacuum and disintegrating the stream with inert gas—yielding high-purity, flowable powder.
6.2 HDH Process
HDH titanium powder is made by hydrogenating titanium sponge, milling it, then dehydrogenating. It’s cheaper but angular-shaped, limiting its use in 3D printing. However, it’s common in powder metallurgy and chemical applications.
Other variants include TiH2 powder (titanium hydride), used as a foaming agent or precursor, and titanium boride powder for refractory composites.
7. Safety and Handling
Fine titanium dust can be flammable or even pyrophoric under certain conditions—always store in inert atmospheres and follow OSHA guidelines. Unlike TiO2 powder (generally recognized as safe in food and cosmetics), metallic titanium powder requires careful handling to avoid oxidation or ignition.
8. Conclusion
Titanium powder is far more than just ground metal—it’s a gateway to innovation in aerospace, medicine, and advanced manufacturing. Whether you’re sourcing spherical titanium powder for additive manufacturing or evaluating titanium diboride price for tooling applications, understanding the landscape of types, costs, and suppliers is crucial. With demand rising and technology advancing, now is the perfect time to get informed—and maybe even buy titanium powder from a trusted titanium powder supplier for your next project.
Our Website founded on October 17, 2012, is a high-tech enterprise committed to the research and development, production, processing, sales and technical services of ceramic relative materials such as Titanium. Our products includes but not limited to Boron Carbide Ceramic Products, Boron Nitride Ceramic Products, Silicon Carbide Ceramic Products, Silicon Nitride Ceramic Products, Zirconium Dioxide Ceramic Products, etc. If you are interested, please feel free to contact us.
