On the characteristics of titanium alloys for the aircraft applications

Abstract

Complex aerodynamic design, high mechanical and thermal loads, extreme environmental and other service conditions produces high magnitude of dynamic stresses in various components of airframe. The magnitude and nature of these stresses further varies during different phases of flight. This governs the need to develop special materials having ability to withstand these variable stresses. Further high fuel costs, scarcity of raw material sources, need of efficiency improvements, growing demand of new aircrafts (both military and civil) and raised environmental standards (less CO2 emission, less noise pollution, recyclability of materials, etc.) are the few factors which forced the engineers to make stronger but ‘as-light-as-possible’ engine, frame and other parts of aircrafts. These factors open the door for ‘stronger-but-lighter’ metals like titanium and its alloys for aerospace application segment. Titanium and its alloys offers a unique set of physical, mechanical, metallurgical and composite compatibility characteristics which helps the aerospace sector to meet economy, fuel efficiency and other global standards in a wide range of temperatures and other service conditions. Starting from its first application in 1950s to till date, this wonder-metal not only increases its share of presence but becomes the first choice of aircraft fabricators. This paper presents an overview of inherent mechanical and metallurgical characteristics of titanium and its alloys which makes it an ideal for the aircraft applications. A brief summary of induced stresses in aircraft critical components with advantages of titanium and its alloy to manufacture these components is also discussed.