Titanium Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V) Precision CNC Machining

Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) is the preeminent titanium alloy, combining extraordinary strength, low density, and high biocompatibility, with low thermal conductivity requiring dedicated cooling.

Engineering Specifications & Parameters

Density 4.43 g/cm³
Hardness 36 Rockwell C (HRC)
Cutting Speed 40 - 80 m/min
Machinability 22% (Challenging)
Tensile Strength 950 MPa (138,000 psi)

Machining Challenges & Solutions

Titanium retains heat at the cutting edge. Keep contact time short, avoid dwell, and use high-pressure coolant (70+ bar) directed directly at the cutting zone.

Core Parameters

  • Tooling: Micro-grain carbide end mills with 4-5 flutes and sharp edge prep.
  • Speed: Low cutting speed (40-75 m/min) to prevent thermal tool breakdown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is titanium considered difficult to machine?

Its poor thermal conductivity causes heat to concentrate at the tool tip rather than transferring into chips, accelerating tool wear.