Titanium Grade 2 (CP Ti)
Generic / House Brand
☀ UV Stable
⬡ Chemical Resistant
Overview
Commercially pure titanium (CP Grade 2) — the most common titanium grade for general use. 45% lighter than steel with equivalent tensile strength to mild steel. Biocompatible for medical implants. Notorious for built-up edge, low thermal conductivity, and fine chip fire hazard.
Properties
Difficulty
expert
Flexibility
rigid
Layer Adhesion
excellent
Enclosure
no
Heated Bed
no
Dry Storage
no
Pros
- 45% lighter than steel at similar strength
- Outstanding corrosion resistance — forms stable TiO2 oxide layer
- Grade 23 (Ti-6Al-4V ELI) and Grade 5 variants are implant certified
- Non-toxic and biocompatible
- Non-magnetic
- High fatigue resistance
Cons
- Extreme cost — $20-60/lb
- Very difficult to machine — built-up edge, galling
- Low thermal conductivity causes heat concentration at cutting edge
- Fine titanium chips are pyrophoric (fire hazard)
- Requires flood coolant — never dry machine
- Specific carbide grades required (sharp, positive rake)
- Work-hardens if chisel-edge contacts workpiece
Best For
- Medical and dental implants (Grade 23)|Aerospace structural components|Marine hardware (sea water immersion)|Bicycle frames and performance parts|Chemical processing in oxidizing acids|High-performance automotive
Avoid For
- Standard desktop CNC (insufficient rigidity/coolant)|Cost-sensitive projects|Dry machining|Standard carbide endmills (wrong grade)|Applications where 6061 aluminum strength is sufficient
Storage
Store dry. Fine titanium chips and dust are flammable — use flood coolant, collect chips immediately, never let them accumulate. Store dry chips in non-airtight containers — not airtight (heat buildup risk). DO NOT machine dry.
Brands
Online MetalsMcMaster-CarrTitanium IndustriesVSMPO-AVISMA