Material comparison
High strength at half the weight of steel; biocompatible, aerospace and implants. Lightweight aluminum with good thermal conductivity; heat exchangers and light structures. So which one is right for your project? Compare the values, strengths and weaknesses side by side.
Titanium alloy (Grade 5 / Grade 23)
Ti6Al4V is the most common titanium alloy. Its high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance and biocompatibility make it a material for aerospace parts and medical implants. LPBF makes it possible to produce implants with porous lattice structures that support bone ingrowth.
Casting aluminum alloy
AlSi10Mg is an aluminum alloy familiar from the casting industry. LPBF produces lightweight, thin-walled parts with internal channels. Its good thermal conductivity makes it suitable for heat exchangers and heat sinks.
Values
| Property | Titanium Ti6Al4V | Aluminum AlSi10Mg |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 4.43 g/cm³ | 2.67 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength | 1,000 MPa | 400 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 12 % | 5 % |
| Modulus (stiffness) | 114 GPa | 70 GPa |
| Heat deflection (0.45 MPa) | — | — |
Decision
Good to know
Titanium Ti6Al4V has higher tensile strength: 1,000 MPa, versus 400 MPa for Aluminum AlSi10Mg.
Titanium Ti6Al4V stretches further before breaking: 12 %, versus 5 % for Aluminum AlSi10Mg.
Aluminum AlSi10Mg is usually easier to produce; it needs less special equipment and tuning.
In general, Aluminum AlSi10Mg is more economical. The exact price is set in the quotation based on part size, quantity and technology.
Tell us the operating conditions; let's decide together which of the two fits, or find a better alternative.