TiNb Alloy Powder

Product	TiNb Alloy Powder
CAS No.	12010-55-8
Appearance	Gray-Silver Powder
Purity	≥99%,  ≥99.9%,  ≥95%(Other purities are also available)
APS	1-5 µM, 10-53 µM  (Can be customized),  Ask for other available size range.
Ingredient	Ti-Nb
Density	4.5-5.5g/cm3
Molecular Weight	N/A
Product Codes	NCZ-DCY-322/25

TiNb Alloy Description:

TiNb Alloy Powder is one of the numerous advanced ceramic materials manufactured by Nanochemazone. Nanochemazone produces too many standard grades when applicable, including Mil Spec (military grade); ACS, Reagent and Technical Grade; Food, Agricultural and Pharmaceutical Grade; Optical Grade, USP and EP/BP (European Pharmacopoeia/British Pharmacopoeia) and follows applicable ASTM testing standards. Typical and custom packaging is available. Additional technical, research and safety (MSDS) information are available. Please request a quote above for more information on lead time and pricing.

TiNb Alloy Powder Related Information :

Storage Conditions:

Airtight sealed, avoid light and keep dry at room temperature.

Please contact us for customization and price inquiry

Email: [email protected]

Note: We supply different size ranges of Nano and micron as per the client’s requirements and also accept customization in various parameters.

TiNb Alloy Powder

Titanium niobium (TiNb) alloy powder is an advanced material with excellent properties for use in biomedical, aerospace, automotive and other demanding applications. This article provides a comprehensive guide to TiNb alloy powder covering composition, properties, processing, applications, specifications, suppliers, costs, handling and more.

Introduction to TiNb Alloy Powder

TiNb alloy powder is composed of titanium and niobium metals. It offers a unique combination of high strength, low density, biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, fatigue and creep resistance at high temperatures.

TiNb alloys are part of a broader class of titanium intermetallic materials that have superior physical, chemical and mechanical properties compared to pure titanium. The addition of niobium as an alloying element enhances certain properties and allows tailoring TiNb alloys for specific applications.

Some key advantages of TiNb alloy powder include:

High strength-to-weight ratio

Ability to withstand extreme temperatures and stresses

Resists wear, abrasion and corrosion in harsh environments

Biocompatible and non-toxic for medical uses

Can be processed into complex shapes using additive manufacturing

Provides design flexibility for engineers

TiNb alloys compete with nickel and cobalt-based superalloys in the aerospace industry. They also offer an alternative to stainless steels for biomedical implants and devices. TiNb alloys are enabling new applications and designs not possible with other materials.

This article provides a technical reference covering the composition, properties, processing, applications, specifications, costs and other practical aspects of TiNb alloy powder.

TiNb Alloy Powder Composition

TiNb alloys contain primarily titanium and niobium as the key constituent elements. The niobium content typically ranges from 10% to 50% by weight, with the balance being titanium.

The ratio of Ti to Nb can be adjusted to create different grades of TiNb alloys optimized for certain properties. Some common TiNb grades include:

Ti-10Nb – 10% niobium, 90% titanium

Ti-35Nb – 35% niobium, 65% titanium

Ti-45Nb – 45% niobium, 55% titanium

Ti-50Nb – 50% niobium, 50% titanium

Additionally, small amounts of other elements like zirconium, tantalum, molybdenum, chromium may be added to further enhance properties. Oxygen and nitrogen may also be present as impurities.

Table 1: Chemical composition of common TiNb alloy grades

Alloy Grade	Niobium Content	Titanium Content
Ti-10Nb	10%	90%
Ti-35Nb	35%	65%
Ti-45Nb	45%	55%
Ti-50Nb	50%	50%

Controlling the composition is critical to achieve the desired properties in the final TiNb alloy product. Powder metallurgy techniques allow precise mixing of the constituent metals into an alloy powder feedstock.

TiNb Alloy Powder Properties

TiNb alloys exhibit a range of useful physical, mechanical and chemical properties that make them suitable for high performance applications. Some key properties include:

Physical Properties

Density – 4.5 to 5.5 g/cm3, lower than steel and nickel alloys

Melting point – 1550 to 1750°C depending on composition

Electrical resistivity – 0.5 to 0.6 μΩ.m, higher than pure titanium

Thermal conductivity – 6 to 22 W/m.K, lower than titanium

Mechanical Properties

Tensile strength – 500 to 1100 MPa, increases with niobium content

Yield strength – 300 to 900 MPa

Elongation – 10% to 25%

Hardness – 200 to 350 HV

Fatigue strength – 400 to 600 MPa

Other Properties

Corrosion resistance – Excellent due to protective oxide layer

Wear resistance – Better than titanium due to hardness

Biocompatibility – Non-toxic and non-allergenic

By adjusting the Ti/Nb ratio, properties like strength, ductility, hardness and elastic modulus can be optimized as per application requirements.

Table 2: Typical properties of Ti-35Nb alloy

Property	Value
Density	5.2 g/cm3
Melting point	1600°C
Tensile strength	650 MPa
Yield strength	550 MPa
Elongation	15%
Elastic modulus	60 GPa
Hardness	250 HV

TiNb Alloy Powder Applications

The unique properties of TiNb alloys make them suitable for demanding applications in various industries:

Aerospace

Engine components – blades, discs, fasteners

Airframe parts – landing gear, wings, fuselage

Hydraulic systems – pumps, valves, actuators

Automotive

Valve springs, engine valves

Connecting rods, turbocharger rotors

Motor racing components

Biomedical

Orthopedic implants – knee, hip

Dental implants, crowns

Surgical instruments

Medical devices

Chemical Industry

Heat exchangers, reactors

Pumps, valves, pipes

Corrosion-resistant equipment

Other Applications

Sporting goods – golf clubs, bike frames

High-end watches and jewelry

Electrical contacts and connectors

High temperature furnace parts

The combination of strength, temperature resistance, corrosion resistance and biocompatibility allows TiNb alloys to substitute heavier materials across these industries.

Table 3: TiNb alloy applications by industry

Industry	Applications
Aerospace	Engine components, airframe parts, hydraulic systems
Automotive	Valve springs, engine valves, connecting rods
Biomedical	Implants, dental, surgical instruments, devices
Chemical	Heat exchangers, reactors, pumps, valves
Other	Sporting goods, watches, electrical contacts, furnace parts

TiNb Alloy Powder Processing

TiNb alloy powder can be produced via different processing routes:

Metal Powder Blending

elemental titanium and niobium powders are blended together in the required composition

blended powder mixture is mechanically alloyed to form the TiNb alloy powder

Gas Atomization

molten TiNb alloy is atomized with an inert gas into fine droplets

droplets solidify into spherical alloy powder particles

Plasma Rotating Electrode Process (PREP)

TiNb electrode rod is melted using plasma arc and spun at high speeds

centrifugal force causes droplets to break off and solidify into particles

Hydride-Dehydride (HDH) Method

Ti and Nb metals are converted into brittle hydride powders

hydride powders are blended, dehydrided, crushed and sieved

The particle size, morphology, flowability and microstructure of the powder can be controlled by selecting the appropriate manufacturing process. This influences the final properties after consolidation.

Table 4: TiNb alloy powder production methods

Method	Description	Particle Size	Morphology
Mechanical alloying	Blending and milling Ti and Nb powders	10 – 50 microns	Irregular, angular
Gas atomization	Inert gas atomization of molten alloy	15 – 150 microns	Spherical
Plasma rotating electrode	Centrifugal disintegration of melted electrode	50 – 150 microns	Spherical
HDH process	Hydriding, dehydriding, crushing blended powders	10 – 63 microns	Irregular, angular

Consolidation of TiNb Alloy Powder

TiNb alloy powder can be converted into full-density components using various powder metallurgy consolidation techniques:

Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP)

encapsulated powder is HIP ped at high temperature and pressure

Vacuum Sintering

powder is compacted and sintered in vacuum furnace

Spark Plasma Sintering

powder is simultaneously heated and compressed by pulsed DC current

Metal Injection Molding (MIM)

powder is mixed with binder, molded, debinded and sintered

Additive Manufacturing

powder bed fusion (SLM, EBM) or directed energy deposition (DED)

HIP and vacuum sintering can achieve close to full density while retaining fine microstructure. Additive manufacturing offers greater geometric freedom. The consolidation process can be optimized to achieve the desired properties.

Table 5: TiNb alloy powder consolidation techniques

Method	Description	Density	Microstructure	Geometry
HIP	High pressure, high temperature	Near full density	Fine	Simple shapes
Vacuum sintering	Sintering in vacuum furnace	Near full density	Fine	Simple shapes
Spark plasma sintering	Pulsed current and pressure	Full density	Ultrafine	Simple shapes
Metal injection molding	Powder + binder molding	Near full density	Ultrafine	Complex shapes
Additive manufacturing	Powder bed fusion or directed energy deposition	Near full density	Coarse	Complex shapes

Specifications for TiNb Alloy Powder

TiNb alloy powder is available in various specifications tailored for different applications:

Compositions: Grades with 10% to 50% niobium content

Particle Size: 10 to 150 microns

Morphology: Spherical, irregular or blended

Production Method: Gas atomized, HDH, blended elemental

Purity: >99.5% titanium, >99.8% niobium

Oxygen Content: <2000 ppm

Flowability: Hall flow rate > 23 sec/50g

Apparent Density: ≥ 2.5 g/cc

Tap Density: ≥ 3.5 g/cc

Chemical composition, particle size distribution, morphology, flow rate and density are commonly specified properties. Custom alloys and powder specifications can be produced for specific applications.

Table 6: Typical specification of Ti-35Nb gas atomized powder

Parameter	Specification
Alloy composition	Ti-35Nb
Particle size	15 to 45 microns
Morphology	Spherical
Production method	Gas atomization
Purity	Ti >99.5%, Nb >99.8%
Oxygen content	<1500 ppm
Flow rate	>38 sec/50g
Apparent density	≥ 2.7 g/cc
Tap density	≥ 4.2 g/cc

Handling and Storage of TiNb Alloy Powder

As a reactive metallic powder, some care is needed when handling TiNb alloy powder:

Store in sealed containers in a dry, inert atmosphere to prevent oxidation and contamination

Avoid contact with oxygen, moisture, oils, combustible materials

Prevent accumulation of fine powders on surfaces or equipment

Ground all conductive equipment used in handling

Use spark-proof tools and minimize dust generation

Wear gloves and respiratory protection when handling

Use grounded ventilation systems and avoid dust clouds

Keep away from heat, flames, sparks and other ignition sources

Follow safety data sheet for proper PPE and precautions

If stored properly in a dry, inert atmosphere, TiNb alloy powder has a typical shelf life of 12 months. Improper storage conditions can lead to oxidation, loss of flowability, or ignition hazards.

Table 9: TiNb alloy powder handling guidelines

Parameter	Guidelines
Storage	Sealed containers, dry inert atmosphere
Atmosphere	Avoid oxygen, moisture, oils, combustibles
Equipment	Ground all conductive equipment
Tools	Use non-sparking tools
Ventilation	Grounded ventilation system
PPE	Gloves, respiratory protection
Precautions	Avoid heat, flames, sparks
Shelf life	12 months in inert atmosphere

Safety Data Sheet for TiNb Alloy Powder

Like other reactive metal powders, some important safety precautions for TiNb alloy:

Wear PPE – gloves, eye protection, mask/respirator

Avoid inhalation of powders – use respiratory protection

Avoid contact with skin and eyes

Wash thoroughly after handling powder

Avoid ignition sources, powders may be flammable

Use proper grounding and ventilation

Inert storage atmosphere to prevent oxidation

Avoid spills and dust accumulation on surfaces

Follow instructions on SDS and warning labels

First aid:

Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Get medical help if needed.

Skin contact: Wash with soap and water. Get help if irritation persists.

Eye contact: Flush eyes with water for 15 minutes. Get medical attention.

Ingestion: Drink water. Get medical assistance if discomfort occurs.

Always refer to SDS from supplier for complete health and safety information before handling and processing TiNb alloy powder.

Table 10: Key safety measures for TiNb alloy powder

Safety Item	Precautions
PPE	Gloves, goggles, N95 mask
Inhalation	Use respiratory protection
Skin contact	Wash affected area with soap and water
Eye contact	Flush eyes with water for 15 minutes
Ingestion	Drink water. Get medical help if needed.
Ventilation	Use grounded ventilation hoods
Grounding	Ground all equipment during handling
Ignition	Avoid sparks, flames, heat sources
Storage	Inert atmosphere away from flammable materials

Quality Inspection of TiNb Alloy Powder

To ensure TiNb alloy powder meets specifications, various quality checks are performed:

Chemical analysis – ICP, GDMS or LECO analysis to verify composition and purity

Particle size analysis – laser diffraction or sieve analysis for size distribution

Morphology – SEM imaging to check particle shape and surface topology

Flow rate – Hall flow meter test for powder flowability

Density – apparent density and tap density measurements

Oxygen/nitrogen – inert gas fusion analysis for interstitial impurities

Phase identification – XRD analysis to determine phases present

Powder properties are tested on each batch to quality standards like ASTM B939, ASTM F3049, EN 10204 3.1. Powder can be blended between lots to achieve uniformity.

Table 11: Testing methods for TiNb alloy powder

Test	Method	Standard
Composition	ICP, GDMS, LECO	ASTM E1479, ASTM E2330
Particle size distribution	Laser diffraction, sieving	ASTM B822
Morphology	SEM imaging	ASTM B822
Flow rate	Hall flow meter	ASTM B213
Density	Scott volumeter	ASTM B212
Oxygen/Nitrogen	Inert gas fusion	ASTM E1019
Phase analysis	X-ray diffraction	ASTM E1876

Medical Applications of TiNb Alloy

Due to their biocompatibility, high strength and low modulus, TiNb alloys are widely used for medical implants and devices:

Orthopedic Implants

Knee and hip replacements

Bone plates, screws

Spinal fixation devices

Dental implants and bridges

TiNb alloys like Ti-35Nb and Ti-45Nb match the elastic modulus of human bone while providing high fatigue strength. This reduces stress shielding compared to stiffer titanium alloys.

Cardiovascular Devices

Stents

Pacemaker casings

Guidewires

Surgical instruments

The corrosion resistance, non-toxicity and non-magnetism of TiNb alloys make them suitable for devices that contact blood and tissues.

TiNb Alloy Grades for Medical Use

Ti-10Nb to Ti-50Nb

Ti-Nb-Zr, Ti-Nb-Ta for adjusted properties

ISO 5832-11 and ASTM F2066 standards

Lower modulus Ti-35Nb and Ti-45Nb are commonly used. Higher Nb strengthens but increases modulus. Small Zr/Ta additions further tailor properties.

Advantages of TiNb Alloys for Biomedical Use

Excellent biocompatibility and osseointegration

High strength and fatigue resistance

Low modulus close to bone

Non-toxic, non-allergenic

Corrosion resistant

Non-magnetic

TiNb alloys provide the best combination of strength, biocompatibility, corrosion resistance and elastic modulus for implants.

Challenges of TiNb Alloy Medical Components

Difficult machining and fabrication

Costlier than Ti-6Al-4V alloy

Requires rigorous quality control and testing

Longer-term clinical data still evolving

Being relatively new for medical use, manufacturing and licensing of TiNb components can be more complex. But their advantages outweigh short-term challenges.

Automotive Use of TiNb Alloys 

The high strength, temperature resistance and fatigue life of TiNb alloys make them attractive for automotive parts:

Valve Springs

Higher strength allows lower spring mass

Reduces valve float at high RPM

Allows higher power output

Engine Valves

Withstands high temperature exhaust gases

Resists wear and deformation

Lightweight

Connecting Rods

High strength-to-weight ratio

Reduces reciprocating mass

Allows higher RPM and power

Turbocharger Rotors

Maintains strength at high temperatures

Resists creep deformation

Thermal shock resistance

Low density

Motor Racing Components

Lightweight suspension, chassis parts

Superior fatigue life

Reduced mass and inertia combined with temperature and fatigue resistance lead to higher engine performance and efficiency.

Challenges of TiNb Alloys for Automotive

High cost compared to steel alloys

Processing difficulties with powder metallurgy

Limited suppliers and manufacturing experience

Uncertain cost-benefit ratio

The benefits may justify premium pricing for high-end vehicles and motorsports initially. Broader adoption depends on TiNb powder producers driving down costs.

Aerospace Applications of TiNb Alloys

TiNb alloys compete with nickel superalloys for aircraft engine and airframe applications needing strength at low temperatures:

Engine Components

Turbine blades, discs, casings

Compressor blades

Shafts, fasteners

Thrust reversers

Structural Parts

Landing gear

Wings, ribs, stringers

Fuselage frames

Hydraulic tubing

Benefits

30-50% lower density than Ni superalloys

Saves weight

Similar strength and creep resistance

Withstands high stresses and temperatures

Challenges

Higher costs than titanium alloys currently

Processing difficulties compared to wrought alloys

Limited production experience and availability

Property data still evolving

The aerospace industry is conservative, so extensive testing and qualification programs are needed to prove viability and establish supply chains before adopting new alloys like TiNb.

Other Applications of TiNb Alloys

In addition to medical, automotive and aerospace uses, TiNb alloys are also suitable for:

Marine – Propellers, pump shafts, fittings

Chemical – Heat exchangers, condensers, piping

Sporting goods – Golf clubs, bicycle frames, rackets

Power generation – Steam and gas turbine components

Electronics – Sputtering targets, capacitors

Jewelry – Watches, rings, piercings

Oil and gas – Downhole tools, valves, pumps

The corrosion resistance, biocompatibility and electrical properties expand the utility of TiNb alloys across diverse industries.

Continuing research and development will uncover new applications as manufacturing experience with TiNb alloy powder grows. Their unique balance of properties will enable designs not feasible with other materials.

Future Outlook for TiNb Alloys

Expanding medical use driven by aging population and need for better implants

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